Lemon Garlic Shrimp Skewers

The summer humidity was thick that evening when my neighbor Maria dragged her portable grill onto our shared driveway. She handed me a bowl of something bright and citrusy, insisting I taste it before she even started the fire. That first bite of her lemon-garlic shrimp stopped all conversation dead in its tracks. Now whenever grilling season rolls around, this recipe is the first thing I make.

Last July I made these for my in-laws who claim they dont like seafood. By the time the second round came off the grill, my father-in-law was actually standing next to me, asking if he could help flip them. Sometimes the simplest ingredients win people over faster than anything else.

Ingredients

• Large shrimp: Tails on make them easier to handle and look gorgeous on the platter
• Olive oil: The base that carries all those bright flavors into the shrimp
• Freshly squeezed lemon juice: Bottled lemon juice cannot replicate the bright acidity you need here
• Lemon zest: This packs all the fragrant lemon oils that make the marinade sing
• Garlic cloves: Freshly minced gives you those little pops of intense flavor
• Smoked paprika: Adds a subtle depth and gorgeous color to the finished shrimp
• Salt and black pepper: Simple seasoning that lets the other flavors shine through
• Fresh parsley: Brings a fresh herbal finish and makes everything look vibrant
• Lemon wedges: Extra squeezes over the hot shrimp right before serving make all the difference

Instructions

Whisk together your marinade:

Combine olive oil, lemon juice, zest, garlic, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and parsley until everything is well blended and fragrant.

Coat the shrimp:

Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss gently until every piece is covered in the bright mixture.

Let them soak up flavor:

Cover and refrigerate for at least 10 minutes, but no more than 30, or the acid will start breaking down the texture.

Get your grill ready:

Preheat to medium-high heat and soak wooden skewers now if youre using them instead of metal ones.

Thread the shrimp:

Slide about 4 or 5 shrimp onto each skewer, leaving a tiny bit of space between pieces for even cooking.

Grill to perfection:

Cook for just 2 to 3 minutes per side until the shrimp turn opaque and pick up gorgeous char marks.

Serve them hot:

Transfer to a platter and hit them with extra parsley and lemon wedges while they are still sizzling.

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My daughter now requests these for her birthday dinner every year, even though she was five years old before she would try them the first time. Watching her reach for seconds that night made me realize that good food really does bring people together in the smallest, most beautiful ways.

Making Ahead

You can whisk the marinade together up to a day in advance and keep it in the refrigerator. Just wait to add the shrimp until about 30 minutes before you plan to grill them.

Serving Ideas

These skewers work beautifully as an appetizer or make them the main event with some crusty bread and a simple green salad. The leftovers, if you somehow have any, are excellent tucked into a wrap the next day.

Grilling Success

Watch your shrimp closely because they go from perfectly cooked to rubbery in seconds. Keep your tongs ready and resist the urge to move them around too much while they sear.

• Oil your grill grates before heating to prevent sticking
• Let the skewers rest for just a minute after grilling
• Serve them on the platter you will bring to the table to save dishes

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These skewers have become my go-to for summer gatherings because they disappear almost as fast as I can cook them. Nothing beats standing around the grill with people you love, passing platters and making memories.

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ How long should I marinate the shrimp?

Marinate the shrimp for 10 to 30 minutes to allow the lemon and garlic flavors to fully infuse without overpowering the seafood's natural taste.

→ Can I use wooden skewers for grilling?

Yes, soak wooden skewers in water for at least 15 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning.

→ What is the best way to tell when shrimp are cooked?

Shrimp are done when they turn opaque with a slight char, usually after 2 to 3 minutes per side on medium-high heat.

→ Can I substitute the shrimp with other proteins?

Scallops or chicken can replace shrimp, but adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure they are fully cooked.

→ What sides pair well with lemon garlic shrimp skewers?

This dish pairs nicely with fresh salads, steamed rice, or crusty bread to balance the bright, zesty flavors.