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This juicy grilled shrimp recipe has become my summer entertaining staple whenever I need an impressive yet effortless dish. The vibrant lemon and herb marinade transforms simple shrimp into a restaurant-worthy meal in minutes.
I first created this dish during a last-minute beach cookout with friends, and it was such a hit that it's now requested at every summer gathering I host.
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp peeled and deveined fresh shrimp will give you the best texture and flavor
- 3 tablespoons olive oil creates a base for the marinade and prevents sticking
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice adds brightness and helps tenderize the shrimp
- ½ teaspoon salt enhances all the flavors
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper provides a subtle kick
- 1 teaspoon oregano brings Mediterranean flair
- ½ teaspoon paprika adds color and a subtle smoky note
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder infuses garlic flavor without burning
- Chopped parsley for serving adds fresh color and flavor
- Lemon slices for serving provides a fresh citrus accent
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Mix the Marinade
- Combine olive oil, lemon juice, salt, pepper, oregano, paprika and garlic powder in a large bowl and whisk thoroughly until well combined. This aromatic mixture is the foundation of flavor for your shrimp.
- Marinate the Shrimp
- Add your peeled and deveined shrimp to the bowl and gently toss until each piece is evenly coated with the marinade. Allow to rest for at least 15 minutes but no longer than 2 hours as the acid from the lemon juice can start cooking the shrimp.
- Skewer the Shrimp
- Thread 4 to 6 shrimp onto each presoaked wooden skewer, making sure to leave a small space between each piece to ensure even cooking. Continue until all shrimp are skewered.
- Grill to Perfection
- Heat your grill or grill pan over medium high heat until hot. Place the skewers on the hot surface and cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side. Watch for the telltale signs of doneness the shrimp will turn pink and opaque when perfectly cooked.
- Garnish and Serve
- Transfer the grilled shrimp to a serving platter, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and arrange lemon slices around the dish for both appearance and extra flavor.
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The secret to this recipe is truly in the marinade timing. The first time I made it, I accidentally left the shrimp marinating overnight and was disappointed when they turned rubbery. Now I set a timer for exactly 15 minutes when serving to guests and the texture is always perfect.
Temperature Matters
The biggest mistake people make when grilling shrimp is using too high heat. Medium high is perfect because it allows the outside to get that beautiful slight char while ensuring the inside cooks through without becoming tough. If your grill runs hot, reduce to medium to prevent overcooking these delicate shellfish.
Perfect Pairings
These grilled shrimp are incredibly versatile when it comes to side dishes. I love serving them alongside a lemony orzo salad or atop a bed of Mediterranean couscous. For a complete summer meal, pair with grilled vegetables like asparagus or zucchini that can cook alongside the shrimp. The citrus notes in the marinade also make these shrimp a natural partner for a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
Make It Your Own
While this classic lemon herb marinade is my go to, you can easily customize the flavor profile. For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes or cayenne. For an Asian inspired version, substitute lime for lemon and add ginger and soy sauce. Cilantro works beautifully in place of parsley for a different flavor dimension. The basic cooking technique remains the same regardless of your marinade choice.
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Recipe Q&A
- → Can I use frozen shrimp for this dish?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before marinating to ensure even flavor absorption.
- → What type of skewers should I use?
Wooden skewers work well but should be soaked in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning. Metal skewers are a reusable option and don't require soaking.
- → How do I prevent shrimp from sticking to the grill?
Brush the grill grates with oil before cooking and ensure the shrimp are coated with marinade. This will prevent sticking and promote even cooking.
- → Can I prepare the marinade in advance?
Yes, the marinade can be prepared up to 5 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just don’t marinate the shrimp for more than 2 hours to avoid over-cooking in the acid.
- → What other sides pair well with this dish?
Grilled vegetables, a fresh green salad, or rice pilaf are excellent options to pair with these shrimp skewers.