Skip to content 
Introduction
There’s something undeniably appealing about grilled shrimp skewers. They cook quickly, are packed with flavor, and are versatile enough to be the star of any meal. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a quick weeknight dinner, this BBQ shrimp skewer recipe is perfect. In this post, we’ll walk you through the detailed recipe, share cooking tips, suggest ingredient substitutions, and provide meal planning ideas and creative uses for leftovers.
Ingredients and Equipment
Main Ingredients
- Shrimp: 1 pound, peeled and deveined
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
- Olive Oil: 3 tablespoons
- Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons
- Paprika: 1 teaspoon
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
- Fresh Parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped (for garnish)
Optional Ingredients
- Red Pepper Flakes: For a spicy kick
- Honey: 1 tablespoon, for a touch of sweetness
Equipment
- Skewers: Metal or wooden (if wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes before use)
- Grill: Outdoor grill or grill pan
- Mixing Bowls: For marinating shrimp
- Cooking Utensils: Tongs, basting brush
Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions
Preparation
Prepping the Shrimp
First, make sure your shrimp are peeled and deveined. If they aren’t already, take a few minutes to remove the shells and clean them.
Making the Marinade
In a mixing bowl, combine minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper. If you want a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes. For a touch of sweetness, mix in the honey.
Marinating the Shrimp
Add the shrimp to the bowl, ensuring they are evenly coated with the marinade. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes but no longer than 2 hours, as the acid in the lemon juice can break down the shrimp, making them mushy.
Grilling
Preparing the Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using a grill pan, preheat it over medium-high heat.
Skewering the Shrimp
Thread the marinated shrimp onto the skewers, leaving a bit of space between each shrimp. This ensures even cooking.
Grilling the Shrimp
Place the skewers on the grill. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook, as shrimp can become rubbery quickly.
Final Touches
Garnishing
Sprinkle the grilled shrimp with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice before serving. This adds a fresh, vibrant flavor to the dish.
Cooking Tips and Tricks
Achieving Perfect Texture
Proper Marinating
Don’t over-marinate shrimp as the acid can break down the shrimp, making them mushy. Thirty minutes to two hours is the perfect range.
Even Cooking
Ensure shrimp are of similar size for uniform cooking. This helps avoid some shrimp being overcooked while others are undercooked.
Flavor Enhancements
Fresh Herbs
Incorporate fresh herbs like basil or cilantro into the marinade for added flavor.
Smoky Flavor
Use smoked paprika or add wood chips to the grill for a smoky taste that complements the shrimp.
Ingredient Substitutions
Dietary Preferences
Low-Sodium Option
Use a salt substitute or reduce the amount of salt in the marinade.
Dairy-Free
Ensure all ingredients are dairy-free, which this recipe naturally is.
Alternative Ingredients
Protein Alternatives
Substitute shrimp with scallops or chicken. Both work well with the garlic and lemon marinade.
Seasoning Variations
Use different spice blends like Cajun or Old Bay seasoning for a different flavor profile.
Oil Alternatives
Replace olive oil with avocado oil or melted coconut oil if you prefer.
Meal Planning Ideas
Batch Cooking
Preparing in Advance
Marinate and skewer shrimp ahead of time, then refrigerate until ready to grill. This makes it easy to throw them on the grill when you’re ready to eat.
Weekly Meal Plan
Include the shrimp skewers as part of a weekly meal prep, pairing with different sides like grilled vegetables, salads, or grains.
Versatile Uses
Tacos
Use grilled shrimp in tacos with fresh salsa, avocado, and a squeeze of lime.
Salads
Add shrimp to a bed of greens with your favorite vegetables and a light vinaigrette for a hearty salad.
Bowls
Combine shrimp with rice, quinoa, or grain bowls for a balanced meal.
Leftover Recipes
Reheating Techniques
Maintaining Texture
Reheat shrimp gently on the stove or in the microwave to avoid a rubbery texture. A quick reheat is best to maintain their tenderness.
Microwave Instructions
Heat in the microwave, covered, in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating.
Creative Leftover Ideas
Shrimp Fried Rice
Add leftover shrimp to fried rice. The flavors of garlic and lemon will complement the rice and vegetables perfectly.
Shrimp Pasta
Toss shrimp with pasta and a light garlic sauce. This makes for a quick and easy dinner that feels indulgent.
Shrimp Salad
Mix shrimp with mayo, celery, and herbs for a shrimp salad sandwich. Serve on a croissant or in a wrap for a delicious lunch.
Conclusion
Grilled shrimp skewers are a fantastic addition to any meal plan. They’re quick, easy, and packed with flavor. Plus, with the versatility to adapt the recipe to your preferences, they can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Give this recipe a try and let me know how it turns out.
Share your results, leave comments, and feel free to ask any questions.
I’m here to help you make the most out of this delicious dish. Happy grilling!
