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Quick Juicy Grilled Shrimp Skewers Recipe Perfect for Weeknight Dinner

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A fast and flavorful grilled shrimp skewers recipe that is juicy, smoky, and perfect for busy weeknights. Ready in just 25 minutes using simple pantry ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined (tail-on or off)
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh-squeezed lemon juice
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • Wooden or metal skewers (soaked if wooden)

Instructions

  1. Rinse peeled and deveined shrimp under cold water, then pat dry with paper towels.
  2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, smoked paprika, ground cumin, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper.
  3. Add shrimp to the bowl and toss gently to coat evenly. Let sit for 10-15 minutes at room temperature. Do not marinate longer than 30 minutes.
  4. Heat grill to medium-high (about 400°F / 200°C). If using a grill pan, heat over medium-high and lightly brush with oil.
  5. Thread 4-5 shrimp onto each skewer, leaving space between pieces.
  6. Place skewers on the hot grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until shrimp turn pink with slight char marks and feel firm but juicy.
  7. Watch closely to avoid overcooking; shrimp should curl into a “C” shape when done.
  8. Remove skewers from grill, sprinkle with chopped parsley, and add an extra squeeze of lemon if desired.

Notes

Do not marinate shrimp longer than 30 minutes to avoid toughness. Preheat grill properly for best sear and char marks. Use skewers to prevent shrimp from slipping through grates. Oil grill grates or use a grill pan to prevent sticking. Watch cooking time carefully to avoid overcooking shrimp.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled shrimp, shrimp skewers, quick dinner, weeknight meal, seafood, easy recipe, smoky shrimp, healthy dinner