American BBQ & Grill · Free recipe
Grilled Shrimp Skewers
Plump shrimp marinated in garlic and lemon, then grilled until just pink and lightly charred. These quick skewers are a light, elegant addition to any barbecue.
Step 1
If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes so they do not burn on the grill.
Step 2
In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, paprika, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
Step 3
Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss until coated. Let them marinate for 15 minutes, but no longer, or the lemon juice will start to make them mushy.
Step 4
Thread the shrimp onto the skewers, pushing the skewer through both the head end and the tail so each shrimp forms a C shape and lies flat.
Step 5
Heat your grill to medium-high, about 400 degrees Fahrenheit, and lightly oil the grates.
Step 6
Place the skewers on the grill.
Step 7
Grill for about 2 to 3 minutes on the first side until the bottom turns pink and lightly charred.
Step 8
Flip the skewers and grill 2 to 3 more minutes on the other side.
Step 9
The shrimp are done when they are pink, opaque, and curled into a loose C shape. An overcooked shrimp curls into a tight O, so pull them early.
Step 10
Move the skewers to a platter.
Step 11
Sprinkle with fresh parsley and a squeeze of extra lemon.
Step 12
Serve immediately while hot.
Tips from the test kitchen
- Do not overcook shrimp; they go from juicy to rubbery in seconds.
- Using two parallel skewers per row keeps the shrimp from spinning when you flip them.
