Grilled Shrimp Skewers Recipe: Quick and Delicious BBQ Delight
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If you’re looking for a simple yet delicious addition to your grilling menu, grilled shrimp skewers are a fantastic choice. With a quick lemon and garlic marinade, they’re ready in just 30-45 minutes. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or just cooking a family dinner, these skewers offer a light, flavorful option that’s sure to impress.
You’ll find that peeling and deveining shrimp is quick and easy. Plus, with helpful tips on grilling techniques and some tasty sauce suggestions, your shrimp will always turn out juicy and flavorful. Jump into the recipes and get ready to enjoy some amazing grilled shrimp skewers!
Exact Ingredients (Plus Possible Substitutes)
You’ll need a few key ingredients to make grilled shrimp skewers.
Shrimp:
- Use large, raw shrimp, peeled and deveined.
- Substitute: Jumbo shrimp or prawns.
Marinade Ingredients:
Olive Oil:
- Adds moisture and helps the seasoning stick.
- Substitute: Vegetable oil or melted butter.
Lemon Juice:
- Brings a fresh, tangy flavor.
- Substitute: Lime juice or vinegar.
Salt:
- Enhances the overall taste.
- Substitute: Sea salt or Himalayan pink salt.
Black Pepper:
- Adds a mild heat.
- Substitute: White pepper or red pepper flakes.
Oregano:
- Gives a savory, herbal note.
- Substitute: Thyme or Italian seasoning.
Paprika:
- Adds color and mild sweetness.
- Substitute: Smoked paprika or chili powder.
Garlic Powder:
- Infuses a garlicky aroma.
- Substitute: Fresh minced garlic or onion powder.
Optional Ingredients:
Celery Salt:
- Adds a subtle celery flavor.
- Substitute: Regular salt with a pinch of celery seed.
Onion Powder:
- Enhances flavor depth.
- Substitute: Finely chopped onion.
Make sure you marinate the shrimp for at least 15 minutes but no more than 2 hours for the best flavor. The result will be a tasty addition to your summer grilling lineup!
Instructions
Prepare the Skewers
If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 20-30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill.
Make the Marinade
In a large bowl, whisk together:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Optional: 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Marinate the Shrimp
Add the shrimp to the bowl with the marinade. Toss gently to coat all pieces. Let the shrimp sit in the marinade for at least 15 minutes, but not more than two hours.
Preheat the Grill
Heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat, around 375-450°F. Oil the grill grates well to prevent sticking.
Thread the Shrimp
Remove the shrimp from the marinade. Thread 4 or 5 shrimp onto each skewer, making sure they are evenly spaced.
Grill the Shrimp
Place the skewers on the preheated grill. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp are opaque and slightly charred.
Serve
Carefully remove the skewers from the grill. Let them cool for a minute before serving. Enjoy your grilled shrimp skewers!
Tips, Tricks & Storing
Tips for Grilling Shrimp
- Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp taste best. If using frozen, thaw them completely and pat them dry.
- Soak Wooden Skewers: Soak skewers in water for at least 20 minutes to prevent burning.
- Even Sizing: Choose shrimp of similar size to ensure even cooking.
Tricks for Perfect Skewers
- Oil the Grill: Oil the grill grates well to prevent sticking.
- Marinating Time: Marinate shrimp for at least 15 minutes but not more than 2 hours for the best flavor.
- Grill Temperature: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (375 to 450 degrees Fahrenheit).
Storing Leftover Shrimp
- Refrigeration: Store your grilled shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Place shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a zip-top bag. They will keep for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Reheat shrimp gently on the stove or in the microwave to avoid overcooking.
Quick Tips
- Avoid Overcrowding: Don’t overcrowd skewers; leave a bit of space between shrimp.
- Flip Once: Turn the skewers once halfway through grilling to ensure even cooking on both sides.
- Use a Thermometer: Shrimp should be opaque and reach an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit.
By following these tips and tricks, you’ll have delicious and perfectly grilled shrimp skewers that everyone will enjoy!
Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions
Lemon Herb Shrimp: Try mixing olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, fresh parsley, rosemary, salt, and pepper for a refreshing taste.
Spicy Cajun Shrimp: Create a marinade with olive oil, lemon juice, cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, crushed garlic, and a pinch of chili flakes for a spicy twist.
Asian-Inspired Shrimp: Combine soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, and a dash of sesame oil for an Asian flare. Add some chopped green onions as garnish.
Serving Suggestions
Over Salad: Place the grilled shrimp on a bed of mixed greens with avocado, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber.
With Pasta: Toss the grilled shrimp with linguine or penne pasta, roasted garlic, cherry tomatoes, and a light drizzle of olive oil.
In Tacos: Fill soft tacos with grilled shrimp, shredded cabbage, sliced avocado, and a squeeze of lime juice.
As Appetizers: Serve the grilled shrimp skewers with a side of garlic aioli or a dipping sauce of your choice for a tasty appetizer.
Vegetable Pairings: Pair with grilled vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes for a colorful and healthy side dish.
Additional Tips
- Bamboo Skewers: Soak bamboo skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before using them to prevent burning.
- Grill Heat: Make sure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat (about 375 to 450 degrees) for best results.
- Oil the Grates: Oil the grill grates well to avoid sticking and to make sure your shrimp stays intact during grilling.