Grilled Lemon Herb Shrimp Skewers Recipe

There's something about the sizzle of shrimp hitting a hot grill that instantly transports you to summer. These Grilled Lemon Herb Shrimp Skewers are bursting with fresh, zesty flavor and have just the right balance of char, citrus, and herbs to make your taste buds dance.

this Recipe

I first made these skewers for a backyard barbecue with friends, and they were gone within minutes. Since then, they've become my go-to dish for warm-weather gatherings. Quick to prep, easy to cook, and always a hit.

These shrimp skewers are perfect for busy weeknights or weekend cookouts. Let me show you why they deserve a spot on your dinner rotation.

Why You'll Love This Grilled Lemon Herb Shrimp Skewers Recipe

This recipe isn't just a breeze to whip up – it's also bursting with flavor and endlessly versatile. Here's why it deserves a place in your recipe box:

First and foremost, it’s incredibly quick and easy. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have dinner on the table in under 30 minutes. Marinate the shrimp, skewer them, and toss them on the grill – that’s it!

It’s also a healthy choice. Shrimp are naturally low in calories and high in protein, and when you pair them with heart-healthy olive oil, fresh herbs, and lemon juice, you’ve got a meal you can feel good about.

Another reason to love this dish? It’s budget-friendly. Shrimp is often available frozen in bulk, which makes this an economical option that doesn’t skimp on taste or presentation.

Lastly, this recipe is super versatile. Serve the skewers over rice, with a side of grilled veggies, or tucked into a warm pita with tzatziki sauce. They also make an excellent appetizer for parties or potlucks.

Whether you're feeding your family or impressing guests, these shrimp skewers deliver on all fronts.

Ingredients Notes

The charm of these grilled shrimp skewers lies in their simplicity. Each ingredient plays a starring role in creating a vibrant, mouthwatering dish.

Shrimp is the star of the show. Opt for large or jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined, with tails left on for presentation if you like. Frozen shrimp works just fine here—just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before marinating.

Lemon juice and zest provide that unmistakable citrus punch. Fresh lemons are best for both juice and zest, lending brightness and acidity that perfectly complements the shrimp.

Fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, and oregano bring a garden-fresh quality to the marinade. You can use dried herbs in a pinch, but fresh really elevates the flavor.

Garlic adds depth and a savory base note. Don’t skip it! Finely minced garlic helps the marinade cling to the shrimp and infuses each bite with flavor.

Finally, a good-quality olive oil ties everything together. It not only helps the marinade coat the shrimp but also ensures they grill up juicy and flavorful. If you have metal or soaked wooden skewers on hand, that's all the equipment you really need.

How To Make This Grilled Lemon Herb Shrimp Skewers Recipe

Making these shrimp skewers is as simple as it gets. Here’s how to bring them to life:

Start by preparing your marinade. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, fresh lemon juice and zest, minced garlic, chopped herbs, salt, and pepper. Give it a quick taste – it should be bright, herby, and a little salty.

Add your shrimp to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Let them sit for at least 15 minutes, but no longer than 30. Shrimp marinate quickly, and too much time in the acid can make them tough.

While the shrimp is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you're using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 20 minutes to prevent burning.

Thread the shrimp onto skewers, piercing through both the head and tail ends so they stay secure. Don’t overcrowd them – leave a little space between each piece for even cooking.

Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side. You’ll know they’re done when they turn pink and opaque with a slight char on the edges. Keep a close eye; shrimp cook fast!

In total, this dish takes under 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll be rewarded with juicy, flavorful shrimp that are perfect served hot off the grill.

Storage Options

These skewers are best enjoyed fresh off the grill, but leftovers can absolutely be stored and savored later. Let the shrimp cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container.

Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to remove them from the skewers before storing to save space and make reheating easier.

You can also freeze the cooked shrimp for up to 2 months. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.

To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over medium heat or pop them in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the shrimp rubbery.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to customize. Here are a few delicious twists you can try:

Swap out the herbs. Basil, cilantro, or dill would all bring their own unique flavor to the mix. Feel free to experiment with whatever you have on hand.

Add a kick of heat with some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce in the marinade. It’s a great contrast to the lemony brightness.

Try a different citrus. Lime or orange juice can offer a fun twist on the classic lemon-herb profile. Just be sure to adjust the amount to taste.

Use a different protein. This marinade works beautifully with chicken, scallops, or even tofu. Adjust cooking times as needed for different ingredients.

Grill some veggies alongside the shrimp. Zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes make perfect partners and can be skewered together for a colorful, complete meal.

No matter how you spin it, these Grilled Lemon Herb Shrimp Skewers are a recipe you’ll want to make again and again. Don’t be afraid to make it your own – that’s where the real magic happens.

Print