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; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; Skewers (wooden or metal)

Highlighted under: Healthy Home Cooking

I love grilling shrimp, especially when they are tossed in a zesty lemon marinade. This Grilled Lemon Shrimp Skewers recipe has become a go-to for my summer barbecues. The combination of fresh lemon juice, garlic, and herbs creates a mouthwatering flavor that pairs perfectly with the smoky char from the grill. I enjoy serving these skewers with a side of grilled vegetables or a refreshing salad, making it the perfect dish for warm evenings. Plus, it's quick to prepare, so I can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the company of family and friends.

Created by

Holly James

Last updated on 2026-02-07T23:17:36.609Z

I remember the first time I made these Grilled Lemon Shrimp Skewers for a summer gathering. The vibrant colors and aromas had everyone excited before they even hit the grill. I realized that the secret to tender shrimp is in not overcooking them—just a brief time on the hot grill brings out their best flavor. I love using skewers as it makes serving and eating these delicious bites so much easier!

Since that day, I've experimented with adding different herbs and spices to the marinade, and I discovered that fresh parsley and a touch of cayenne elevate the dish beautifully. If you love a touch of heat, try incorporating some red pepper flakes in the marinade for an extra kick!

Why You'll Love These Skewers
Bright, zesty flavors that make your taste buds dance
Quick and easy, perfect for busy weeknights or summer barbecues
Versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides

Perfecting the Marinade

The marinade for these skewers is where the magic happens. Fresh lemon juice not only imparts a bright zesty flavor but also acts as a tenderizer, breaking down the proteins in the shrimp. I recommend using freshly squeezed lemon juice for maximum flavor; the bottled stuff can taste overly sour. Mix the marinade well until it’s emulsified, which should take about a minute, ensuring the shrimp are evenly coated for the best taste.

One common mistake is not allowing enough time for the shrimp to marinate. Aim for 15 to 30 minutes; any less, and you risk bland flavors. However, avoid marinating for too long (over an hour), as the acid in the lemon juice can make the shrimp mushy. If you're short on time, a quick 10-minute soak will still impart some flavor, but the longer marination truly enhances the overall taste.

Skewering Techniques

When preparing your skewers, choosing the right type is crucial. If you opt for wooden skewers, be sure to soak them in water for at least 10 minutes before threading to prevent burning on the grill. Metal skewers are a great alternative that won't burn, and they can be reused, making them an eco-friendly choice. Just make sure to use a flat metal skewer to keep the shrimp from spinning as you turn them on the grill.

Threading the shrimp onto the skewers is another critical step. Aim to add 4 to 6 shrimp per skewer, allowing space for even cooking. You want to pierce through the thickest part of the shrimp, creating a secure hold that allows them to cook evenly without falling off. This is especially helpful if you're grilling over an open flame, where spillage could lead to lost shrimp and unnecessary frustration.

Serving Suggestions

These Grilled Lemon Shrimp Skewers are incredibly versatile when it comes to pairing. They shine alongside grilled vegetables, like bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus, which not only complement the flavor but also add vibrant color to your plate. Alternatively, try them with a light, refreshing salad tossed in a lemon vinaigrette to echo the sweetness of the shrimp and balance the meal.

For an elevated experience, consider garnishing with fresh herbs, like additional parsley or even a sprinkle of dill, right before serving. I like to pair my skewers with a side of homemade tzatziki or a spicy garlic sauce for dipping, which adds a delightful creaminess and enhances the dish's overall flavor profile. These extras can easily be prepared while the shrimp are marinating, making them convenient options for an impressive meal.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare these flavorful skewers:

Ingredients

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Skewers (wooden or metal)

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Grilled Lemon Shrimp Skewers:

Marinate the Shrimp

In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, parsley, salt, and black pepper. Add the shrimp and toss to coat. Let marinate for 15 minutes.

Prepare Skewers

If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 10 minutes to prevent burning. Thread the marinated shrimp onto the skewers.

Grill the Shrimp

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Place the shrimp skewers on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until shrimp are opaque and cooked through.

Serve

Remove skewers from the grill and serve immediately with lemon wedges and your favorite side dish.

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, feel free to add your favorite spices or herbs to the marinade, like smoked paprika or fresh thyme.

Storage Tips

If you have leftover skewers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Simply reheat them in a skillet over medium heat for a couple of minutes per side, or give them a quick reheat on the grill to reintroduce that smoky char before serving. Be cautious not to overheat, as this can lead to tough shrimp.

For meal prep, you can also marinate the shrimp a day in advance. Just make sure to keep them in the fridge and tightly covered to maintain freshness. You might find that the flavors deepen when they sit, but avoid more than 24 hours in the marinade to prevent mushiness.

Ingredient Variations

Feel free to customize the marinade to suit your taste preferences. For instance, adding a teaspoon of red pepper flakes can introduce a pleasant warmth that brightens the dish. Alternatively, substitute the parsley with cilantro or basil for a different herbal profile; just keep in mind that each herb brings its unique character to the dish.

If you're looking to cater to dietary preferences, you can easily swap out shrimp for firm tofu or chicken pieces. Just adjust the marinating time accordingly—chicken may need a bit longer to fully absorb the flavors and ensure proper cooking, while tofu benefits from the same marinating time as shrimp for flavor infusion.

Troubleshooting

If you notice your shrimp curling up while grilling, it's usually because they were either overcooked or not marinated long enough. In the future, ensure they’re marinated adequately and keep a close eye on the cooking time. Aim for an opaque appearance and a firm yet tender texture; this usually takes about 2-3 minutes per side, depending on the size of your shrimp.

Another common issue is shrimp sticking to the grill. To combat this, preheat the grill properly and use an oil spray or brush some oil directly onto the grill grates. This creates a non-stick surface. Additionally, letting the skewers cook without moving them for a minute or two allows a natural sear to form before flipping.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, just ensure they are completely thawed and patted dry before marinating.

→ What other vegetables can I grill with these skewers?

Bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes work beautifully alongside shrimp.

→ How long can I marinate the shrimp?

For best results, do not exceed 30 minutes, as the acid from the lemon can begin to 'cook' the shrimp.

→ Can I make these skewers in the oven?

Absolutely! You can place the skewers on a baking sheet and broil them in the oven for about 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through.