When summer finally rolls around, there’s nothing quite like the joy of grilling with friends and family. Picture this: the sun setting on a warm evening, laughter echoing through the backyard, and the tantalizing aroma of garlic drifting through the air. That’s exactly what you’ll get with these Garlic Grilled Shrimp Skewers—a delightfully easy yet sophisticated dish that brings a splash of color and flavor to your summer gatherings.
I discovered this recipe after a particularly long workweek, searching for a quick meal that didn’t compromise on taste. The secret lies in the vibrant garlic herb marinade—each bite is a succulent explosion of flavors thanks to fresh herbs, a hint of lemon, and that perfect char from the grill. Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner or a festive BBQ, these skewers are versatile enough to please any palate. Plus, they’re gluten-free and packed with protein, making them a delightful, guilt-free indulgence! Get ready to fire up the grill and impress your guests with this crowd-pleasing dish.
Why is Garlic Grilled Shrimp a Must-Try?
Easy Preparation: This recipe is a breeze to follow, requiring minimal time and effort for maximum flavor impact.
Flavor Explosion: The garlic herb marinade infuses each shrimp with bold flavors, delivering a mouthwatering experience with every bite.
Healthy Option: With only 166 calories per serving, these skewers are a guilt-free choice, perfect for summer meals.
Versatile Pairing: Serve them with a fresh salad or over rice to create a complete and satisfying dish that caters to various tastes.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for backyard BBQs, these skewers will impress family and friends alike, ensuring your gatherings are memorable.
Quick Cooking: Grill them in just a few minutes, making it easy to whip up a delicious meal even on busy nights.
Garlic Grilled Shrimp Ingredients
• Note: Here’s everything you need to create delicious Garlic Grilled Shrimp skewers bursting with flavor!
For the Shrimp
- Large Shrimp – The star of the dish, offering a firm texture that absorbs the marinade wonderfully. Opt for quality frozen shrimp for best results.
For the Marinade
- Olive Oil – Adds richness and moisture; avocado oil can be a great alternative for higher heat grilling.
- Fresh Cilantro – Provides herbaceous notes that elevate the flavor profile; parsley or basil works well as substitutes.
- Fresh Parsley – Contributes a mild, fresh flavor; you can also consider dill for a different taste.
- Garlic (minced) – Infuses aromatic richness into the marinade; fresh garlic is ideal but garlic powder can work in a pinch.
- Lemon Juice – Adds a zesty acidity that balances the flavors perfectly; lime juice is a fine substitute.
- Salt – Essential for enhancing overall flavor; kosher or sea salt is recommended for the best texture.
- Black Pepper – Adds warmth and depth; adjust depending on your taste preference.
- Cayenne Pepper – Introduces a delightful spicy kick; you can control the heat by adjusting the amount added.
How to Make Garlic Grilled Shrimp
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Prepare Shrimp: Start by thawing the large shrimp. You can do this overnight in the fridge or under cold water for 5-10 minutes. Make sure to pat them dry with a paper towel for the best marinade adherence.
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Make Marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, cilantro, parsley, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Whisk until everything is beautifully blended and aromatic.
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Marinate Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the bowl, coating them with about ¾ of the marinade. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 30 minutes, but don’t exceed 2 hours to maintain their juicy texture.
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Prepare Grill and Skewers: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. While it heats, thread the marinated shrimp onto skewers, brushing them with the remaining marinade for extra flavor.
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Grill Shrimp: Place the skewers on the grill and cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side. They are ready when they turn pink and opaque. Once done, drizzle any leftover marinade over them for added taste before serving.
Optional: Serve with a squeeze of fresh lemon for an extra zing!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Garlic Grilled Shrimp Variations
Feel free to put your unique spin on these delicious skewers and customize to your heart’s content!
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Chicken Swap: Substitute shrimp with bite-sized chicken pieces for a hearty alternative. Just adjust the cooking time for perfectly grilled chicken.
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Fishy Twist: Firm fish like salmon or swordfish works beautifully instead of shrimp. Each bite will burst with flavor and a beautiful flaky texture!
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Veggie Boost: Add colorful bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes skewer alongside the shrimp. This not only adds nutrition but also creates a vibrant presentation.
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Herb Party: Swap in fresh herbs like thyme or oregano for a different flavor profile. Each herb will introduce its own delightful essence to the dish!
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Citrus Variation: Try grapefruit or orange juice instead of lemon for a refreshing, aromatic twist. This hand-picked change invites a sweet citrus note.
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Spice It Up: For more spice, add diced jalapeños to the skewers. They’ll give a delightful kick and are a great balance to the savory shrimp.
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Asian Flair: Incorporate ginger and sesame oil into the marinade for an Asian-inspired flavor. This unique variation will elevate your grilling experience!
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Sweet Addition: A drizzle of honey or maple syrup in the marinade adds a sweet contrast against the savory garlic. This surprisingly complementary touch will delight your taste buds!
Expert Tips for Garlic Grilled Shrimp
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Thawing Tips: Ensure shrimp are fully thawed for even cooking. Use cold water for quick thawing, and always pat them dry to help the marinade stick better.
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Marinade Time: Don’t over-marinate; keep shrimp in the marinade for a maximum of 2 hours to prevent a mushy texture. Ideally, 30 minutes is perfect for flavor absorption.
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Skewer Selection: Choose flat metal skewers over round wooden ones. They prevent shrimp from spinning, ensuring even cooking on the grill.
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Grill Temperature: Preheat the grill properly to medium-high heat. Too low, and the shrimp will steam instead of grill, losing that lovely char.
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Drizzle Extra Flavor: For an extra burst of flavor, brush more marinade on the shrimp just before taking them off the grill. This adds an aromatic finish that enhances the garlic grilled shrimp!
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Vegetable Additions: To add color and nutrition, skewer veggies alongside the shrimp. Bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes make for excellent companions.
Make Ahead Options
These Garlic Grilled Shrimp skewers are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time on busy weeknights! You can marinate the shrimp up to 24 hours in advance by storing them in the refrigerator, ensuring maximum flavor absorption. Just make sure to cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap to prevent any air exposure and maintain their juicy texture. When you’re ready to serve, simply thread the marinated shrimp onto skewers and grill them for about 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. This way, you’ll have a delicious gourmet meal ready in no time, elevating your dinner experience without any hassle!
What to Serve with Garlic Grilled Shrimp Skewers?
Imagine a vibrant summer table spread with delightful side dishes that perfectly complement the bold flavors of your garlic grilled shrimp skewers.
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Coconut Rice: A creamy and subtly sweet base, perfect for balancing the zesty shrimp. The coconut adds a tropical touch that pairs beautifully with the herbs.
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Grilled Vegetables: Colorful bell peppers, zucchini, and red onions bring a smoky flavor to the table. Their charred edges and juicy texture create an irresistible contrast.
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Tangy Coleslaw: Refreshing and crunchy, this slaw with a citrus vinaigrette adds brightness. It’s a great way to round out the meal with crisp texture and lively flavors.
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Quinoa Salad: Light and nutritious, tossed with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a hint of lemon. This dish complements the shrimp while adding a protein punch to your spread.
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Garlic Bread: Serve warm with herb-infused butter for a comforting side. This classic dish enhances the garlic flavor and is perfect for scooping up any delicious marinade left on your plate.
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Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc: A chilled glass of these wines enhances the meal, adding a crisp and refreshing note that complements the shrimp’s garlic and herb flavors.
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Lemon Sorbet: For dessert, a light and zesty lemon sorbet cleanses the palate after a savory meal, capping off your dining experience with a refreshing bite.
These pairings ensure a memorable meal, creating an inviting atmosphere filled with delightful tastes and textures.
How to Store and Freeze Garlic Grilled Shrimp
Fridge: Store cooked garlic grilled shrimp in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep the shrimp in their marinade for added moisture and flavor retention.
Freezer: If you have leftovers, freeze cooked shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a resealable bag. They can last up to 2 months in the freezer.
Reheating: For best results, reheat grilled shrimp in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of olive oil to keep them moist. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the shrimp rubbery.
Make-Ahead Tips: You can marinate the shrimp ahead of time and refrigerate for up to 2 hours before grilling, ensuring they are packed with flavor when cooked.
Garlic Grilled Shrimp Skewers Recipe FAQs
What type of shrimp should I use for garlic grilled shrimp?
I recommend using large, quality shrimp for this recipe, as they offer a firm texture and absorb the marinade flavors beautifully. If fresh shrimp isn’t available, high-quality frozen shrimp works perfectly. Just ensure they are fully thawed before marinating for best results.
How do I store leftover garlic grilled shrimp?
After grilling, you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To retain moisture and flavor, keep them in their marinade if you have any left. If you want to keep them longer, they can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Can I freeze garlic grilled shrimp? How should I do it?
Absolutely! For freezing, place cooked garlic grilled shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a resealable bag, ensuring to remove as much air as possible. This method prevents them from clumping together, making it easy to grab just what you need later.
What should I do if my shrimp are overcooked?
If your shrimp turn out a bit rubbery, it can be tricky to fix, but you can try to soak them briefly in a flavorful sauce or broth to add moisture. For the future, aim to grill shrimp for only 2-3 minutes per side, staying vigilant to their color change to prevent overcooking.
Are garlic grilled shrimp skewers suitable for people with allergies?
While garlic grilled shrimp skewers are gluten-free, always be cautious. If you or your guests have seafood allergies, substitute shrimp with firm fish or chicken, and avoid cross-contamination with seafood products during preparation. Always check that all other ingredients, like sauces and marinades, are allergy-friendly as well.
Garlic Grilled Shrimp Skewers for a Flavorful Summer Feast
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Thaw the large shrimp, patting them dry with a paper towel for better marinade adherence.
- In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, cilantro, parsley, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Whisk until blended.
- Add the shrimp to the bowl and coat with about ¾ of the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Thread marinated shrimp onto skewers, brushing with remaining marinade.
- Grill skewers for 2-3 minutes on each side until shrimp turn pink and opaque. Drizzle any leftover marinade before serving.