Grilled Lemon Shrimp Skewers

Name: Grilled Lemon Shrimp Skewers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4.0
Ingredients: 1/4 cup olive oil; 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined; Lemon wedges, for serving; Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Highlighted under: Easy Healthy Meals Ideas

I absolutely love making Grilled Lemon Shrimp Skewers, especially during the warm months when outdoor grilling is in full swing. The juicy shrimp are marinated in a bright, zesty lemon and herb mixture that elevates their natural flavor. It’s a quick and easy dish that never fails to impress my guests. These skewers are not only delicious but also take very little time to prepare and cook, making them my go-to for last-minute gatherings or weeknight dinners.

Created by

Isolde Bennett

Last updated on 2026-02-07T23:20:36.880Z

When I first tried making Grilled Lemon Shrimp Skewers, I was amazed at how simple yet flavorful they turned out. I experimented with various marinades before hitting the perfect balance of lemon juice, garlic, and herbs. The shrimp soak up all the lovely flavors, making each bite a burst of zest. I also find that using wooden skewers soaked in water prevents them from burning on the grill.

One of my favorite tips is to thread the shrimp in a pattern with pieces of bell pepper or cherry tomatoes. Not only does it add color, but those veggies also roast beautifully alongside the shrimp, enhancing the dish’s presentation and taste. Believe me, your family and friends will rave about these skewers!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bright, zesty lemon flavor that enhances the shrimp
Quick and easy preparation, perfect for busy nights
Versatile: can be served as an appetizer or main dish

Marinade Magic

The marinade for the Grilled Lemon Shrimp Skewers is what truly transforms ordinary shrimp into a flavorful dish. The olive oil acts as a base, ensuring the shrimp stay moist during cooking while also allowing the vibrant flavors of lemon and garlic to infuse. I recommend using fresh lemon juice, as its brightness is key to achieving that zesty punch. If you run out of fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice can be a substitute, but fresh is always best when it comes to flavor.

When whisking the marinade, you should aim for a glossy texture that indicates the ingredients have combined well. This helps each shrimp get an even coat, ensuring that every bite is packed with flavor. Remember to taste the marinade before adding the shrimp—adding a pinch more salt or a dash of extra lemon juice can make a notable difference. Balancing the flavors at this stage can elevate your dish considerably.

Grilling Techniques

Preheating your grill to medium-high heat is a crucial step to achieving those beautiful grill marks and a slightly charred flavor. I like to aim for around 400°F to 450°F on the grill. To test the heat, you can hold your hand about six inches above the grill grate; you should be able to hold it there for about 4-5 seconds before it becomes too hot. Getting the temperature right ensures that the shrimp cook quickly while preventing them from drying out.

While grilling, pay attention to the shrimp’s color—when they turn pink and opaque, you know they’re done. Be careful not to overcook them, as shrimp can easily become rubbery with excess heat. If you find that some shrimp are cooking faster than others, you can move them to a cooler side of the grill to slow down the cooking process while keeping the rest evenly grilled.

Serving and Variations

Serving your Grilled Lemon Shrimp Skewers with fresh lemon wedges not only enhances their flavor but also adds an appealing presentation. The added squeeze of lemon juice right before serving can brighten the flavors even more. For a colorful display, consider adding zucchini or bell pepper pieces to the skewers—these can be marinated alongside the shrimp and will add a nice crunch and sweetness when grilled.

This recipe is highly versatile as well. You can easily swap the shrimp for other seafood options; scallops or firm fish chunks like swordfish are great alternatives. Just be mindful of the cooking time; larger pieces may need a few extra minutes on the grill. If you're feeling adventurous, try experimenting with different herbs, such as basil or cilantro, to introduce new flavor profiles to the skewers.

Ingredients

This refreshing dish is all about fresh ingredients, so let’s gather what we need:

For the Marinade

1/4 cup olive oil
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Shrimp

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Lemon wedges, for serving
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

Now let’s get started with making these delicious skewers:

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Marinate the Shrimp

Add the shrimp to the marinade and stir until they are evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes.

Preheat the Grill

While the shrimp is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat.

Skewer the Shrimp

Thread the marinated shrimp onto skewers, about 4-5 shrimp per skewer, making sure to leave a little space between each shrimp.

Grill the Shrimp

Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side or until the shrimp are pink and opaque.

Serve and Enjoy

Remove the skewers from the grill, garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges, and serve warm.

Pro Tips

For the best flavor, try to marinate the shrimp for at least 30 minutes if you have the time. This allows the shrimp to really absorb all the delicious flavors of the marinade.

Storage Tips

If you have leftover Grilled Lemon Shrimp Skewers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. It's best to store them without additional ingredients like parsley or lemon wedges, as they can wilt or become soggy. When reheating, I suggest using a skillet over medium heat for a quick warm-up, as microwaving can lead to rubbery shrimp. Just a couple of minutes will suffice, restoring some of that fresh grilled texture.

For meal prep enthusiasts, the shrimp marinade can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to a week. This allows you to quickly marinate fresh shrimp whenever you need a quick meal. Just ensure the shrimp is at room temperature before grilling; this helps them cook evenly without becoming tough.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your shrimp are sticking to the grill, it's likely because the grill wasn’t preheated enough or not properly oiled. Always brush the grill grate with oil before placing the skewers on it; this creates a non-stick barrier. If they still seem stubborn, try sliding a thin metal spatula underneath to release them. Remember, they’re ready to flip when they easily release from the grill without tearing.

Overcooked shrimp can be a sad experience, so watch the grilling time closely. If you’re unsure, remove one skewer from the heat and check doneness by slicing into a shrimp. Perfectly cooked shrimp should be opaque throughout with a juicy texture, not dry or rubbery. If they’re not ready yet, simply return them to the grill for an additional minute or so.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before marinating.

→ What can I serve with Grilled Lemon Shrimp Skewers?

These skewers pair wonderfully with a fresh salad, rice, or grilled vegetables.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently before serving.

→ Can I substitute the shrimp with other proteins?

Absolutely! Chicken or firm fish like tuna or salmon would work well with the same marinade.