Appetizers & Starters > Finger Foods > Skewered Items > Shrimp Skewers

Garlic Herb Shrimp Skewers

Succulent shrimp marinated in a vibrant blend of garlic, herbs, and lemon, then grilled to perfection. These skewers are quick, easy, and bursting with flavor, making them the perfect appetizer for any occasion. Serve with a side of lemon wedges or your favorite dipping sauce.

Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time
8-10 minutes
Servings
4-6
Ingredients
  • 1 lb Large Shrimp
  • 1/4 cup Olive Oil
  • 4 cloves Garlic
  • 2 tbsp Fresh Parsley
  • 1 tsp Fresh Thyme
  • 2 tbsp Lemon Juice
  • 1 tsp Lemon Zest
  • 1/4 tsp Red Pepper Flakes
  • 1/2 tsp Salt
  • 1/4 tsp Black Pepper
  • 10-12 pieces Wooden Skewers

Prepare the Shrimp

Begin by rinsing the shrimp under cold water. Peel and devein the shrimp, leaving the tails on or removing them, depending on your preference. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. This helps the marinade adhere better and ensures a good sear when grilling.

Make the Marinade

In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, chopped fresh parsley, fresh thyme, lemon juice, lemon zest, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. This marinade infuses the shrimp with a bright and savory flavor.

Marinate the Shrimp

Add the shrimp to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes. Longer marinating times can make the shrimp mushy due to the lemon juice. While the shrimp marinates, soak the wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill.

Assemble the Skewers

Thread the marinated shrimp onto the soaked wooden skewers, spacing them slightly apart. Aim for about 4-5 shrimp per skewer.

Grill the Shrimp

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking. Place the shrimp skewers on the hot grill and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become tough.

Serve

Remove the shrimp skewers from the grill and serve immediately. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges, if desired. Offer your favorite dipping sauce, such as aioli or cocktail sauce, for an extra touch.

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FAQ

  • Can I use frozen shrimp?

    Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Make sure to thaw them completely before marinating. Pat them dry before adding them to the marinade.
  • Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

    Yes, but fresh herbs provide a brighter flavor. If using dried herbs, use about 1 teaspoon of dried parsley and 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme.
  • How do I prevent the shrimp from sticking to the grill?

    Make sure the grill grates are clean and well-oiled before placing the shrimp skewers on the grill.
  • Can I bake these skewers?

    Yes, you can bake the skewers. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through.