Grilled Lemon Shrimp Skewers

Name: Grilled Lemon Shrimp Skewers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 1 tablespoon lemon zest; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; Skewers (metal or soaked wooden ones)

Highlighted under: Easy Healthy Meals Ideas

I absolutely adore these Grilled Lemon Shrimp Skewers! Every time I make them, the zesty lemon marinade makes the shrimp burst with flavor. The smoky char from the grill complements the citrus notes magnificently. I love how quick they are to prepare, perfect for those busy weeknights or an outdoor gathering. Plus, they look stunning on the plate, making them an excellent choice for entertaining. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a dish that feels special and tastes incredible!

Created by

Isolde Bennett

Last updated on 2026-02-07T23:25:36.342Z

When I first tried making grilled shrimp, I was amazed at how simple it was to achieve such a delightful flavor. I learned that marinating the shrimp for at least 30 minutes really allows the lemon and garlic to penetrate, enhancing the taste massively. This method not only keeps the shrimp tender but also infuses them with a fresh, zesty charm that elevates any meal.

One tip I swear by is the skewer pairing. I prefer metal skewers over wooden ones as they don’t soak or burn and ensure even cooking. Just a couple of minutes on the grill will have your shrimp perfectly cooked and ready to impress your guests!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bright, zesty flavor that awakens your taste buds
Quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy nights
Perfectly tender shrimp that char beautifully on the grill

Understanding the Ingredients

Each component of the marinade plays a crucial role in flavor enhancement. The olive oil not only provides a rich base but also helps the shrimp remain tender while grilling. Lemon juice adds acidity, which brightens the dish and balances the richness of the oil, while lemon zest intensifies those vibrant citrus notes. Garlic brings an aromatic depth that complements the shrimp beautifully. For those with dietary restrictions, you can swap olive oil for avocado oil or use tamari instead of soy sauce for gluten-free variations.

When selecting shrimp, aim for fresh, large shrimp for the best results; they have a plump texture that holds up wonderfully on the grill. Always check for a slight snap when you bite into them, which is a sign of freshness. If fresh shrimp isn't available, frozen shrimp can be used—just be sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator overnight before marinating.

Perfecting Your Grilling Technique

Getting the grilling temperature just right is crucial for achieving that perfect char. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F to 450°F) to ensure the shrimp cook quickly and evenly. If the heat is too low, your shrimp may turn out rubbery or dry. A common mistake is overcooking; keep a close eye on the shrimp as they only take 2-3 minutes per side. They are done when they turn opaque and have a slight curl—remove them promptly to prevent dryness.

In terms of skewering, using metal skewers can be particularly beneficial as they conduct heat better and help cook the shrimp from the inside out. If you're using wooden skewers, soaking them beforehand is a must to avoid burning on the grill. Be cautious not to overcrowd the skewers; spacing them out allows for better air circulation and even cooking.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Grilled Lemon Shrimp Skewers

Ingredients

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon lemon zest
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Skewers (metal or soaked wooden ones)

Prep all ingredients before starting to make the cooking process seamless!

Instructions

Marinate the Shrimp

In a medium bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Add the shrimp and toss to coat evenly. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Prepare the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using wooden skewers, make sure they have been soaked in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.

Skewering the Shrimp

Thread the marinated shrimp onto the skewers, leaving space between each shrimp for even cooking.

Grill the Shrimp

Place the skewers on the grill. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp are opaque and cooked through.

Serve

Remove the skewers from the grill and serve immediately with extra lemon wedges on the side for an added zesty kick.

Enjoy your delicious grilled shrimp skewers!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, try adding fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro to the marinade.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Grilled Lemon Shrimp Skewers, consider pairing them with a refreshing cucumber and tomato salad. The coolness of the vegetables complements the zesty shrimp and adds a delightful crunch. Alternatively, serving them with a light garlic and herb yogurt sauce creates a creamy contrast that enhances the dish’s flavors.

For a more complete meal, serve the skewers over a bed of fluffy quinoa or jasmine rice, which will absorb the delicious citrus marinade and add a nice texture. Don't forget to garnish with freshly chopped parsley or additional lemon wedges to brighten the presentation.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

These skewers are perfect for meal prep! You can marinate the shrimp up to 4 hours ahead of time, allowing the flavors to penetrate more deeply. Just ensure they are kept in the refrigerator until you're ready to grill. If you find yourself with leftover skewers, they can be refrigerated for up to 2 days. Just reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, or you can quickly throw them back on the grill for a minute or two to warm through.

Unfortunately, shrimp don’t freeze well after being cooked, but if you freeze them before cooking, ensure they are well sealed in an airtight container. Thaw them in the refrigerator for a more consistent texture before marinating and grilling.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely before marinating.

→ How long can I marinate the shrimp?

You can marinate the shrimp for up to 2 hours for a more intense flavor.

→ Can I cook these in the oven?

Absolutely! You can bake them in a preheated oven at 400°F for about 10-12 minutes.

→ What can I serve alongside the skewers?

These shrimp skewers pair beautifully with a light salad or grilled vegetables.