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Fresh Lemon Garlic Shrimp Skewers

lemon garlic shrimp skewers - featured image

A quick, light, and zesty seafood dish featuring shrimp marinated in lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil, then grilled to perfection. Perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend barbecues.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (wild-caught recommended)
  • Juice of 12 fresh lemons (about 3 tablespoons)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 34 garlic cloves, minced
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • ½ teaspoon salt (to taste)
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes before use)
  • Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes
  • Optional: 1 teaspoon honey or agave

Instructions

  1. Rinse 1 pound (450 grams) of large shrimp under cold water, then pat dry with paper towels.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine juice from 1-2 fresh lemons (about 3 tablespoons), 1 teaspoon lemon zest, 3-4 minced garlic cloves, 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, and optional pinch of red pepper flakes. Whisk together until well blended.
  3. Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss to coat evenly. Cover and let marinate in the fridge for 15-20 minutes. Do not marinate longer than 30 minutes.
  4. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling.
  5. Remove shrimp from marinade and thread 4-5 shrimp per skewer, piercing through the thickest part without packing too tightly.
  6. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (about 375°F / 190°C). Brush grates lightly with oil to reduce sticking.
  7. Place skewers on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, flipping once, until shrimp turn pink and opaque with a slight char.
  8. Transfer skewers to a plate and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley. Optionally drizzle extra lemon juice or olive oil before serving.

Notes

Do not over-marinate shrimp to avoid mushy texture; 15-20 minutes is ideal. Preheat grill well and oil grates to prevent sticking. Flip shrimp only once during cooking. Let shrimp rest briefly after grilling for juiciness. Wooden skewers must be soaked to prevent burning.

Nutrition

Keywords: shrimp skewers, lemon garlic shrimp, grilled shrimp, easy seafood recipe, light meal, quick dinner, zesty shrimp