Lemon Herb Shrimp Skewers
Juicy, plump shrimp marinated in a zesty lemon-herb sauce, then grilled to perfection. A perfect light summer meal or appetizer, ready in under 30 minutes.
For 4 servings
5 steps. 10 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare Skewers and Marinade
- b.If using wooden skewers, submerge them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill.
- c.In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, chopped parsley, chopped dill, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper to create the marinade.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Marinate the Shrimp
- b.Pat the peeled and deveined shrimp completely dry with paper towels. This helps the marinade adhere better.
- c.Add the dry shrimp to the bowl with the marinade and toss gently until every shrimp is evenly coated.
- d.Let the shrimp marinate at room temperature for 15 minutes. Do not exceed 30 minutes, as the acid in the lemon juice will start to break down the protein and make the shrimp tough.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Assemble and Grill
- b.Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (about 400-450°F or 200-230°C).
- c.Thread 4-5 shrimp onto each skewer, piercing them through the head and tail to create a 'C' shape. Leave a small space between each shrimp for even cooking.
- d.Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking. Place the skewers on the hot grill.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Cook to Perfection
- b.Grill for 2-3 minutes per side. The shrimp will cook very quickly.
- c.They are done when they turn pink and opaque, and curl into a gentle 'C' shape. An overcooked shrimp will curl into a tight 'O'.
- d.For best results, use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- 5
Step 5
- a.Garnish and Serve
- b.Remove the skewers from the grill and transfer them to a serving platter.
- c.Let them rest for a minute. Garnish with a little extra fresh parsley if desired.
- d.Serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the hot shrimp.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best flavor, use fresh, not bottled, lemon juice and fresh herbs.
- 2Ensure your shrimp are patted completely dry before marinating. A dry surface allows the marinade to cling better and helps the shrimp sear nicely on the grill.
- 3Do not overcrowd the skewers. Leaving a small gap between each shrimp ensures they cook evenly rather than steam.
- 4If you don't have an outdoor grill, an indoor grill pan or a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat works wonderfully.
- 5Pay close attention while grilling. Shrimp can go from perfectly cooked to rubbery in less than a minute.
- 6To check for doneness without a thermometer, look at the shape. A perfectly cooked shrimp forms a 'C', while an overcooked one forms a tight 'O'.
Adapt it for your goals.
Add Vegetables
Thread cherry tomatoes, chunks of bell pepper, zucchini, or red onion onto the skewers in between the shrimp for a complete meal on a stick.
Spicier VersionSpicier Version
Increase the red pepper flakes to 1 teaspoon or add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the marinade for an extra kick.
Mediterranean TwistMediterranean Twist
Add 1 teaspoon of dried oregano to the marinade. After grilling, sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese and chopped Kalamata olives.
Different CitrusDifferent Citrus
Substitute the lemon juice with an equal amount of fresh lime juice for a slightly different, tangy flavor profile.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Lean Protein
Shrimp is packed with high-quality protein, which is crucial for building and repairing tissues, supporting muscle mass, and keeping you feeling full and satisfied.
Heart-Healthy Fats
The use of extra virgin olive oil provides monounsaturated fats, which are known to support cardiovascular health by helping to reduce bad cholesterol levels.
Rich in Antioxidants
Garlic, lemon, and fresh herbs are loaded with antioxidants and vitamins like Vitamin C, which help combat oxidative stress and support a strong immune system.
Supports Weight Management
This dish is low in calories and carbohydrates but high in protein, making it an ideal choice for a light yet filling meal that aligns with weight management goals.
Frequently asked questions
Each serving (approximately 2 skewers) contains around 290-320 calories, depending on the exact size of the shrimp and amount of oil used.