Garlic Herb Grilled Shrimp Skewers
Succulent grilled shrimp marinated in aromatic garlic, fresh herbs, and zesty lemon juice. The combination of cilantro and parsley creates a bright, herbaceous flavor that complements the sweet shrimp perfectly. These skewers make an excellent appetizer for summer gatherings or a light main course served with rice or salad. The quick cooking time and vibrant presentation make them ideal for entertaining.
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimpmedium shrimp1:1seafood
use same quantity
- ¼ cup olive oil
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro (finely chopped)
- ¼ cup fresh parsley (finely chopped)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- pinch cayenne pepper (adjust to spice preference)
Instructions
- 1
Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, herbs, garlic, and spices in a small mixing bowl
- 2
Place shrimp in a bowl and pour 3/4 of marinade over them
- 3
Mix gently until shrimp are well coated, then cover and marinate for 30 minutes to 1 hour
- 4
Thread marinated shrimp onto skewers, spreading any remaining garlic and herbs from bowl onto shrimp
- 5
Heat grill or grill pan on medium high heat
- 6
Grill shrimp skewers for 2 to 3 minutes each side until they turn pink and opaque
- 7
Remove to serving plate and spoon remaining marinade on top before serving
Tips
Don't overcook the shrimp - they're done when they turn pink and opaque, which happens quickly on high heat.
Save some marinade before adding to raw shrimp to use as a finishing sauce for food safety.
Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before threading to prevent burning on the grill.
Good to Know
Refrigerate cooked shrimp skewers for up to 2 days in an airtight container.
Marinate shrimp up to 4 hours ahead, but grill just before serving for best texture.
Serve immediately while hot, garnished with lemon wedges and extra herbs if desired.
Common Mistakes
Don't marinate longer than 4 hours to avoid mushy texture from acid.
Preheat grill properly to avoid sticking and ensure even cooking.
Substitutions
use same quantity
FAQ
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, thaw completely and pat dry before marinating. Frozen shrimp may release more water during cooking.
What if I don't have a grill?
Use a grill pan, cast iron skillet, or broiler. Cook times remain the same - just watch for pink, opaque color.
How long can I keep the marinade?
Fresh marinade keeps 3-4 days refrigerated. Don't reuse marinade that touched raw shrimp without cooking it first.