Lemon Garlic Shrimp Skewers

The smell of lemon and garlic hitting a hot grill still takes me back to my first apartment balcony, where I learned that sometimes the simplest dinners create the loudest reactions from friends.

My neighbor leaned over the railing when I first made these, asking what smelled so incredible, and ended up staying for dinner with a bottle of wine in hand.

Ingredients

• 1 lb large raw shrimp: Tails on look beautiful but tails off make eating easier either way works perfectly
• 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil: The base that carries all those bright flavors right into the shrimp
• 3 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice: Fresh lemon makes all the difference here nothing compares to that first squeeze
• 3 garlic cloves, minced: Mince it finely so the garlic flavor infuses evenly without any harsh bites
• 1 tsp lemon zest: This little addition adds an aromatic brightness that juice alone cannot achieve
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt: Enhances natural sweetness without overpowering the delicate seafood
• 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper: Just enough to wake up all the other flavors
• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes: Optional but adds the most beautiful gentle heat that lingers
• 1/4 cup fresh flat-leaf parsley: Adds fresh color and a peppery bite that cuts through the richness
• Lemon wedges: For serving because everyone loves an extra squeeze at the table

Instructions

Whisk together the marinade:

Combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, lemon zest, salt, pepper and red pepper flakes in a medium bowl until everything is beautifully emulsified

Coat the shrimp:

Add shrimp to the bowl and toss gently until every piece is covered then refrigerate for just 10 to 15 minutes

Prepare your skewers:

Soak wooden skewers for at least 15 minutes if you are using them to prevent scorching on the grill

Get the grill ready:

Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat until it is nice and hot

Thread the shrimp:

Pierce each shrimp through both the head and tail sections so they lay flat and cook evenly on the skewers

Grill to perfection:

Cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side until the shrimp turn opaque and develop gorgeous charred marks

Add the finishing touch:

Sprinkle fresh parsley over the hot skewers immediately so the heat releases all those wonderful oils

Serve it up:

Bring them to the table with extra lemon wedges for guests who love that extra bright hit of acid

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These skewers have become my go-to when I want to serve something impressive but keep the actual cooking time minimal enough to enjoy my own party.

Grilling Alternatives

When the weather does not cooperate I have had great success using the broiler set to high positioning the skewers about 4 inches from the heat source and watching closely to prevent overcooking.

Perfect Pairings

A crisp Sauvignon Blanc cuts through the richness beautifully while the citrus notes echo the lemon in the marinade creating those perfect moments when food and wine enhance each other.

Make It Your Own

Sometimes I add a pinch of smoked paprika to the marinade for a subtle earthy depth that hints at outdoor cooking even on a stovetop.

• Try these over a bed of lightly dressed arugula for a complete light dinner
• Serve with warm crusty bread to soak up all those wonderful juices
• Double the recipe for crowds because these disappear faster than you expect

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These lemon garlic shrimp skewers prove that sometimes the most memorable meals are the ones that let simple, quality ingredients shine without any fuss.

Recipe FAQs

→ How long should the shrimp marinate?

Marinate the shrimp for 10–15 minutes to allow flavors to infuse without toughening the meat.

→ What is the best method to cook these shrimp skewers?

Grilling over medium-high heat for 2–3 minutes per side creates a juicy, slightly charred finish, but broiling can also be an effective alternative.

→ Can wooden skewers be used safely on the grill?

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

→ How can I add extra flavor to the marinade?

Incorporate a pinch of smoked paprika to enhance the smoky depth without overpowering the citrus and garlic notes.

→ What wines pair well with this dish?

A crisp Sauvignon Blanc complements the bright lemon and garlic flavors, balancing the dish's freshness.

→ Is this dish suitable for specific diets?

This dish is gluten-free, dairy-free, and pescatarian-friendly, making it suitable for various dietary preferences.