Lemon Garlic Grilled Shrimp Skewers

These Lemon Garlic Grilled Shrimp Skewers are a delightful addition to any meal, whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or enjoying a cozy dinner indoors. Their vibrant flavor, thanks to fresh garlic and tangy lemon, makes them irresistible. Plus, they are quick to prepare and perfect for various occasions—from casual family dinners to festive gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: These shrimp skewers come together in just 15 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights.
• Bursting with Flavor: The marinade of lemon and garlic infuses the shrimp with a zesty flavor that everyone will love.
• Versatile Dish: Serve as an appetizer, main course, or even as part of a seafood platter—these skewers fit seamlessly into any menu.
• Healthy Option: Low in calories and packed with protein, these grilled shrimp skewers are an excellent choice for health-conscious eaters.
• Easily Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the skewers for extra color and nutrition.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your tools for efficient prep. Having everything on hand will make the cooking process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Wooden skewers
• Shallow baking dish
• Whisk
• Grill (indoor or outdoor)

Importance of Each Tool

• Wooden skewers: Essential for holding the shrimp together while cooking; soaking them prevents burning.
• Shallow baking dish: Perfect for marinating the shrimp evenly in the flavorful mixture.
• Whisk: Helps blend all ingredients smoothly for a well-combined marinade.

Ingredients

These Lemon Garlic Grilled Shrimp Skewers make the perfect addition to any healthy meal! Marinated in fresh garlic, lemon, and white apple vinegar, these grilled shrimp are perfect for summer barbecues or grilled indoors any time of year!

For the Shrimp

• About 1 pound of large shrimp (approximately 16-20)
• The zest and juice of one large lemon
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 6 cloves of garlic, pressed or very finely chopped
• 1/4 cup white apple vinegar
• 2 teaspoons dried parsley
• a pinch of salt and pepper

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

For Skewering

• 4-5 wooden skewers
• 1-2 cups water

How to Make Lemon Garlic Grilled Shrimp Skewers

Step 1: Soak the Skewers

Pour the water into a shallow baking dish and add the wooden skewers. Let them soak while you prepare the shrimp and marinade.

Step 2: Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, whisk together the lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, white apple vinegar, dried parsley, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Step 3: Rinse the Shrimp

Rinse the shrimp under cold water. If desired, remove their shells while leaving the tails intact.

Step 4: Assemble the Skewers

Remove the soaked skewers from the water. Thread four shrimp onto each skewer. Make sure to pierce each shrimp in two places to keep them secure during grilling.

Step 5: Marinate the Shrimp

Place the assembled skewers in a shallow baking dish. Pour the marinade over them ensuring each skewer is well coated. Cover with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for 20-30 minutes to let flavors meld.

Step 6: Preheat Your Grill

After marinating, remove the skewers from the fridge and heat your indoor or outdoor grill to medium-low heat.

Step 7: Grill the Shrimp Skewers

Place each skewer on the grill. Discard any leftover marinade. Grill for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque.

Step 8: Serve!

Once cooked through (be careful not to overcook!), transfer them to a serving platter. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired before serving!

How to Serve Lemon Garlic Grilled Shrimp Skewers

Lemon Garlic Grilled Shrimp Skewers are versatile and can be served in various ways to enhance your meal. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will elevate your dining experience.

On a Fresh Salad

• A vibrant green salad topped with grilled shrimp adds protein and flavor. Toss together leafy greens, cherry tomatoes, and avocado for a refreshing dish.

With Rice or Quinoa

• Serve the skewers over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa. This combination makes for a filling meal that balances the lightness of the shrimp.

In Tacos

• For a fun twist, place the grilled shrimp in soft tortillas. Add cabbage slaw and a drizzle of lime crema for a delicious taco night.

As an Appetizer

• Serve the skewers as an appetizer at your next gathering. Pair them with a zesty dipping sauce for guests to enjoy before the main course.

With Grilled Veggies

• Accompany your shrimp with assorted grilled vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini. This colorful plate offers both flavor and nutrition.

Over Pasta

• Create a delightful pasta dish by tossing the grilled shrimp with spaghetti, olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs for a quick and tasty meal.

How to Perfect Lemon Garlic Grilled Shrimp Skewers

To ensure your Lemon Garlic Grilled Shrimp Skewers turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose Fresh Shrimp: Always opt for fresh or properly thawed shrimp for the best texture and flavor.
• Marinate Longer: For richer flavor, let the shrimp marinate longer than 30 minutes—up to 2 hours is ideal.
• Soak Skewers: Soaking wooden skewers prevents burning on the grill. Aim for at least 30 minutes before use.
• Preheat Your Grill: Make sure your grill is hot before adding the skewers. This helps achieve those perfect grill marks.
• Watch Cooking Time: Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery. Aim for 3-4 minutes per side until they’re pink and opaque.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add your favorite spices or herbs to the marinade for extra depth of flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Lemon Garlic Grilled Shrimp Skewers

Pairing side dishes with Lemon Garlic Grilled Shrimp Skewers enhances your meal’s overall experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread: A crunchy loaf spread with garlic butter complements the flavors of the shrimp beautifully.
2. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch that contrasts nicely with grilled shrimp.
3. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter is always a hit at barbecues and pairs well with seafood.
4. Couscous Salad: Light couscous mixed with vegetables provides a healthy side full of texture and flavor.
5. Mediterranean Pasta Salad: Tossed with olives, feta, and cherry tomatoes, this salad brings vibrant flavors that match well.
6. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus adds elegance and is simple to prepare alongside your skewers.
7. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs make for a hearty addition to your meal.
8. Greek Yogurt Dip: A cool yogurt dip served alongside can balance out the heat from any spices used in your dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Lemon Garlic Grilled Shrimp Skewers, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the flavor and texture of your dish.

• Not soaking the skewers: If you skip soaking wooden skewers, they may catch fire on the grill. Always soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before use.
• Over-marinating the shrimp: Marinating shrimp for too long can lead to a rubbery texture. Aim for 20-30 minutes to achieve the perfect balance of flavor without compromising texture.
• Skipping the tails: Removing the tails can make shrimp hard to handle on the grill. Leaving them on not only adds a nice presentation but also makes it easier to flip and serve.
• Grilling at high heat: Cooking shrimp on high heat can lead to overcooking and dryness. Stick to low heat and grill for 3-4 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque.
• Not ensuring even spacing: If shrimp are packed too closely on skewers, they won’t cook evenly. Space them out slightly to allow for better heat circulation.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cooked Lemon Garlic Grilled Shrimp Skewers in an airtight container.
• They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Lemon Garlic Grilled Shrimp Skewers

• Place cooled skewers in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months; label with date for reference.

Reheating Lemon Garlic Grilled Shrimp Skewers

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place skewers on a baking sheet and reheat for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Place skewers on a microwave-safe plate. Heat in short intervals (30 seconds), checking until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of oil. Cook the skewers for about 2-3 minutes until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp for Lemon Garlic Grilled Shrimp Skewers?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them completely before marinating and grilling.

How do I know when my shrimp are done?

Shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque. This usually takes about 3-4 minutes per side on low heat.

What can I serve with Lemon Garlic Grilled Shrimp Skewers?

These skewers pair wonderfully with salads, rice, or grilled vegetables. You can customize your sides based on your dietary preferences!

Can I customize the marinade?

Absolutely! Feel free to add different herbs or spices like oregano or cayenne pepper for an extra kick.

How long does it take to grill these shrimp skewers?

The total grilling time is around 6-8 minutes, depending on your grill’s heat setting. Make sure not to overcook them!

Final Thoughts

Lemon Garlic Grilled Shrimp Skewers are a delightful dish that combines fresh flavors and easy preparation. Perfect for summer barbecues or cozy indoor meals, this recipe is versatile enough to accommodate various tastes. Don’t hesitate to customize the marinade or pair these skewers with your favorite sides; they’re sure to impress at any gathering!