Grilled Lemon Shrimp Skewers

Name: Grilled Lemon Shrimp Skewers
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; Wooden or metal skewers

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I absolutely love making grilled lemon shrimp skewers during the summer months. The combination of juicy shrimp marinated in a zesty lemon-garlic mixture creates a vibrant dish that is perfect for outdoor gatherings. Every bite offers a burst of fresh flavors that pair beautifully with a side of rice or a crisp salad. Not only are these skewers easy to prepare, but they also take just a short amount of time to grill, making them a hassle-free option for a quick dinner or grilling parties.

Created by

Arielle Baxter

Last updated on 2026-02-07T17:41:35.792Z

When I first made grilled lemon shrimp skewers, I was surprised by how quickly they came together. The marinade of lemon juice, garlic, and herbs not only tenderizes the shrimp but also infuses them with incredible flavor. I recommend letting the shrimp sit in this marinade for at least 15 minutes to achieve the perfect taste. Using wooden skewers that have soaked in water prevents them from burning on the grill, ensuring your skewers turn out beautifully charred.

To make these skewers even more exciting, consider adding colorful bell peppers or cherry tomatoes to the mix. The combination of flavors and textures creates a stunning presentation that is sure to impress your guests. I also love serving them with a homemade garlic dip, which elevates the dish even further. Trust me, they’re a hit every time!

Why You'll Love These Skewers
Fresh and zesty flavor profile with a perfect balance of citrus and garlic
Quick to prepare, making them an ideal choice for busy weeknights or festive gatherings
Versatile dish that can easily be paired with various sides or enjoyed on their own

Marinating the Shrimp

The marinade for the grilled lemon shrimp skewers is truly the star of the dish, combining bright lemon juice, fragrant garlic, and aromatic oregano. The acidity from the lemon not only infuses flavor but also helps to tenderize the shrimp, resulting in a firmer texture as it cooks. For the best results, I recommend allowing the shrimp to marinate for at least 30 minutes if you have the time, as this enhances the flavors even more.

If you’re looking to amp up the flavor profile, consider adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade. These additions provide depth and a gentle kick that complements the zestiness of the lemon beautifully. Just remember not to over-marinate the shrimp; more than an hour can lead to a rubbery texture due to the acidity.

Grilling Tips for Perfection

When grilling shrimp skewers, achieving that perfect char is key. Preheat your grill to medium heat, around 350°F to 375°F. This temperature allows the shrimp to cook evenly while getting those desirable grill marks. If the grill is too hot, the shrimp may cook too quickly on the outside, leaving the inside undercooked. I suggest lightly oiling the grill grates before placing the skewers on them to prevent sticking.

Keep an eye on the shrimp during grilling; they typically require only 3-4 minutes per side. You’ll know they’re done when they turn opaque and have a pink hue. Overcooking can lead to a dry texture, so remove them from the grill promptly. Letting the skewers rest for a few minutes before serving helps redistribute the juices, enhancing the overall flavor and moisture.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Grilled lemon shrimp skewers are incredibly versatile, making them perfect for various sides. They pair wonderfully with a light rice pilaf infused with herbs or a fresh, crunchy salad with a citrus vinaigrette. For a touch of added flavor, consider garnishing with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of feta cheese, which gives a nice saltiness that contrasts with the lemony shrimp.

For those looking to mix it up, feel free to add veggies to the skewers—bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes are excellent choices. Just make sure to cut them into similar sizes for even cooking. If you have leftovers, these skewers can be refrigerated for up to 2 days and reheated quickly in a skillet over medium heat for a speedy lunch or dinner.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp Skewers

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Wooden or metal skewers

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

Marinate the Shrimp

Add the shrimp to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Allow them to marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Prepare Skewers

If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 10 minutes. Then thread the shrimp onto the skewers.

Grill the Skewers

Preheat the grill over medium heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.

Serve

Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your grilled lemon shrimp skewers hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

Pro Tips

For the best results, do not overcook the shrimp. They should be firm to the touch but still juicy. Try pairing with a lemon wedge for added freshness.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have fresh lemons on hand, bottled lemon juice can be a convenient substitute, though fresh will always yield a brighter flavor. For a unique twist, try using lime juice instead; it offers a different zest that pairs well with shrimp. As for the herbs, dried thyme or basil can stand in for oregano if needed, though adjusting the amount may be necessary as their flavors can be more pronounced.

In place of shrimp, feel free to experiment with other proteins, such as scallops or firm fish like salmon, cut into cubes. Just adjust the marinade time and grilling duration to suit the protein you choose—salmon may need a bit longer while scallops will take less time.

Make-Ahead and Storage

If planning for a gathering, you can prepare the marinade and skewers a day in advance, storing the marinated shrimp covered in the refrigerator. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to deepen. Just be sure to thread the shrimp onto the skewers right before grilling to prevent them from breaking apart during cooking.

For leftovers, store grilled shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be enjoyed cold in salads or reheated lightly in a skillet for a quick meal. Avoid microwave reheating if possible, as it can lead to a rubbery texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, but make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before marinating.

→ What can I serve with grilled lemon shrimp skewers?

These skewers pair well with rice, salad, or grilled vegetables.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

You can substitute shrimp with firm tofu or large chunks of vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers.

→ How long do the skewers take to grill?

They usually take about 6-8 minutes total, depending on your grill's heat.