Fire up the grill for Grilled Shrimp Skewers, a Flavorful Shrimp Kebabs dish that’s bursting with smoky, zesty flavors. These smoky shrimp skewers are quick to prepare, healthy, and perfect for summer BBQs or weeknight dinners. With a vibrant marinade and colorful veggies, Grilled Shrimp Skewers bring joy to any meal. Let’s grill this healthy grilled dish!
Why You’ll Love Grilled Shrimp Skewers
- Quick Cooking: Grilled Shrimp Skewers are ready in under 15 minutes on the grill.
- Healthy Choice: Lean protein and veggies make this a nutritious Grilled Shrimp Skewers meal.
- Bold Flavors: A zesty marinade elevates this healthy grilled dish to new heights.
- Versatile: Perfect as a main, appetizer, or meal prep for these zesty kebabs.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Impress guests with vibrant, flavorful Grilled Shrimp Skewers.
Ingredients for Grilled Shrimp Skewers
Here’s what you’ll need for this healthy grilled dish (serves 4):
Shrimp:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined (20–24 shrimp)
- 1 tbsp (15ml) olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp kosher salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp (15ml) fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Marinade (Optional but Recommended):
- ¼ cup (60ml) olive oil
- 2 tbsp (30ml) fresh lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp (15ml) honey
- 1 tbsp (15ml) soy sauce
- 1 tsp dried oregano or fresh thyme
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Vegetables (Optional):
- 1 red onion, cut into wedges
- 1 bell pepper (any color), cut into chunks
- 1 zucchini, sliced into thick rounds
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
Serving (Optional):
- Lemon wedges
- Dipping sauce (e.g., garlic butter or sriracha mayo)
Equipment
- Grill (gas, charcoal, or indoor grill pan)
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
- Basting brush
- Tongs
- Measuring spoons
- Serving platter
Ingredient Tips
- Shrimp: Use large, fresh, or thawed frozen shrimp for juicy zesty kebabs.
- Marinade: Lemon and garlic add brightness; adjust honey for sweetness.
- Vegetables: Choose firm veggies for even cooking in this Flavorful Shrimp Kebabs dish.
- Skewers: Soak wooden skewers for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
- Oil: Olive oil ensures a golden char; avocado oil is a high-heat alternative.
Directions
Prep the Shrimp
I peel and devein 1 lb shrimp, then pat them dry with paper towels to ensure even grilling for Grilled Shrimp Skewers.
Make the Marinade
In a bowl, I whisk ¼ cup olive oil, 2 tbsp lemon juice, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 tbsp honey, 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tsp oregano, and ¼ tsp red pepper flakes. I toss the shrimp in the marinade and let them sit for 15–30 minutes for flavorful zesty kebabs.
Prep the Vegetables
I cut 1 red onion, 1 bell pepper, 1 zucchini, and cherry tomatoes into even chunks, optionally tossing them in 1 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper for vibrant Grilled Shrimp Skewers.
Assemble the Skewers
I thread shrimp and veggies onto skewers, alternating for color and even cooking, leaving small gaps for this smoky shrimp skewers dish.
Grill the Skewers
I preheat the grill to medium-high (400°F). I place the skewers on the grill and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until the shrimp are pink and opaque, using tongs to flip gently for perfect Grilled Shrimp Skewers.
Serve and Garnish
I transfer the skewers to a platter, garnish with chopped parsley and lemon juice, and serve hot with lemon wedges or a dipping sauce for a zesty finish.
Nutrition
- Prep Time: 20 minutes (including marinating)
- Cook Time: 6–8 minutes
- Total Time: 26–28 minutes
- Servings: 4 (2–3 skewers per serving)
- Calories: ~180–220 kcal per serving (without dipping sauce)
- Macros per Serving: 10g carbs, 20g protein, 8g fat, 2g fiber
Variations
Try these twists on this healthy grilled dish:
- Protein Swap: Use scallops or tofu instead of shrimp for unique Grilled Shrimp Skewers.
- Spicy Kick: Add ½ tsp chili powder to the marinade for Flavorful Shrimp Kebabs.
- Veggie Mix: Include mushrooms or eggplant for variety in this smoky shrimp skewers dish.
- Tequila Lime: Use 1 tbsp tequila and extra lime juice, inspired by LaylaCooks’ Sun Dried Tomato and Mushroom Pasta.
- Herb Boost: Add fresh basil or rosemary for an aromatic twist.
Serving Ideas:
- Pair with LaylaCooks’ Cucumber Blueberry Feta Salad for a fresh contrast.
- Serve with LaylaCooks’ Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken for a hearty meal.
- Enjoy with LaylaCooks’ Vanilla Raspberry Iced Latte for a summery pairing.
Storage
I store leftover zesty kebabs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2–3 days, separating skewers with parchment to prevent sticking. I reheat gently in a skillet over low heat for 2–3 minutes or in a microwave for 30–60 seconds, avoiding overcooking. Freezing cooked shrimp is not recommended, but raw marinated shrimp can be frozen for up to 1 month and grilled later.
Serving Tips
- Presentation: Arrange Grilled Shrimp Skewers on a platter with lemon wedges for vibrancy.
- Garnish: Sprinkle parsley or drizzle sriracha mayo for flair.
- Pairing: Pair with quinoa or LaylaCooks’ Coconut Cooler to complement this healthy grilled dish.
- Portion Size: 2–3 skewers per person for a satisfying meal.
- Occasions: Ideal for BBQs, weeknight dinners, or summer gatherings.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for Grilled Shrimp Skewers?
Yes, thaw completely before marinating for juicy Flavorful Shrimp Kebabs.
How do I know when the shrimp are done?
Shrimp are pink, opaque, and curled into a “C” shape for perfect smoky shrimp skewers.
Can I prep Grilled Shrimp Skewers ahead?
Marinate and assemble skewers in the fridge up to 4 hours before grilling.
What’s the best grill for this dish?
Gas, charcoal, or an indoor grill pan works well for this healthy grilled dish.
How do I prevent wooden skewers from burning?Soak them in water for 30 minutes before grilling Grilled Shrimp Skewers.
More Dinner Recipes
- Classic Moussaka: A Hearty, Soul-Warming Treat
- Honey Garlic Salmon Air Fryer
- Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce
Conclusion
Grilled Shrimp Skewers are a vibrant, healthy meal that brings summer to your plate. These zesty kebabs are perfect for any occasion. Fire up the grill, make Grilled Shrimp Skewers, and savor the smoky delight with friends and family!
Grilled Shrimp Skewers
Ingredients
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb 450g large shrimp, peeled and deveined (20–24 shrimp)
- 1 tbsp 15ml olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp kosher salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp 15ml fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
For the Marinade (Optional but Recommended):
- ¼ cup 60ml olive oil
- 2 tbsp 30ml fresh lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tbsp 15ml honey
- 1 tbsp 15ml soy sauce
- 1 tsp dried oregano or fresh thyme
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes optional
For the Vegetables (Optional):
- 1 red onion cut into wedges
- 1 bell pepper any color, cut into chunks
- 1 zucchini sliced into thick rounds
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
For Serving (Optional):
- Lemon wedges
- Dipping sauce e.g., garlic butter or sriracha mayo
Instructions
Prep the Shrimp
- I peel and devein 1 lb shrimp, then pat them dry with paper towels to ensure even grilling for Grilled Shrimp Skewers.
Make the Marinade
- In a bowl, I whisk ¼ cup olive oil, 2 tbsp lemon juice, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 tbsp honey, 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tsp oregano, and ¼ tsp red pepper flakes. I toss the shrimp in the marinade and let them sit for 15–30 minutes for flavorful zesty kebabs.
Prep the Vegetables
- I cut 1 red onion, 1 bell pepper, 1 zucchini, and cherry tomatoes into even chunks, optionally tossing them in 1 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper for vibrant Grilled Shrimp Skewers.
Assemble the Skewers
- I thread shrimp and veggies onto skewers, alternating for color and even cooking, leaving small gaps for this smoky shrimp skewers dish.
Grill the Skewers
- I preheat the grill to medium-high (400°F). I place the skewers on the grill and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until the shrimp are pink and opaque, using tongs to flip gently for perfect Grilled Shrimp Skewers.
Serve and Garnish
- I transfer the skewers to a platter, garnish with chopped parsley and lemon juice, and serve hot with lemon wedges or a dipping sauce for a zesty finish.
Notes
- Don’t overcook the shrimp: Shrimp cook very quickly and can become tough if overcooked. As soon as they turn pink and opaque, they’re done.
- Use skewers of the right size: Use 12-inch skewers for even grilling. Soak wooden skewers for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning.
- Grill in batches: If making a large batch, cook the skewers in batches to avoid overcrowding the grill.
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