Grilled Marinated Shrimp Skewers: A Flavorful Summer Delight

Summer is synonymous with grilling, and what could be more perfect for a warm evening than succulent, perfectly grilled shrimp? This recipe for Grilled Marinated Shrimp Skewers is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The marinade infuses the shrimp with a burst of flavor, and the grilling process imparts a delightful smoky char. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply looking for a quick and easy weeknight meal, these shrimp skewers are a fantastic choice.

## Why This Recipe Works

* **Flavorful Marinade:** The key to truly amazing grilled shrimp lies in the marinade. This recipe uses a combination of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, herbs, and spices to create a vibrant and complex flavor profile that complements the natural sweetness of the shrimp.
* **Quick and Easy:** From start to finish, this recipe takes less than 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
* **Versatile:** These shrimp skewers can be served as an appetizer, a main course, or even as part of a salad.
* **Customizable:** Feel free to adjust the marinade ingredients to suit your taste. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat, or substitute lime juice for lemon juice for a different citrusy twist.

## Ingredients

* 1 pound large shrimp (21-25 count), peeled and deveined
* 1/4 cup olive oil
* 1/4 cup lemon juice, freshly squeezed
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
* 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped
* 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning)
* Optional Garnishes: Lemon wedges, chopped fresh parsley

## Equipment

* Medium bowl
* Whisk
* Grill
* Skewers
* Tongs

## Step-by-Step Instructions

### 1. Prepare the Marinade

In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, chopped parsley, chopped oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Ensure all ingredients are well combined.

### 2. Marinate the Shrimp

Add the shrimp to the bowl with the marinade. Gently toss to coat the shrimp evenly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes. Do not marinate for longer than 30 minutes, as the lemon juice can start to “cook” the shrimp and make it tough.

*Why this step is important: Marinating the shrimp is crucial for infusing it with flavor. The longer the shrimp marinates (within the recommended time frame), the more flavorful it will be. However, over-marinating can negatively impact the texture.*

### 3. Prepare the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375-450°F or 190-230°C). Clean the grill grates with a wire brush to remove any debris.

*Why this step is important: A clean and preheated grill ensures that the shrimp cook evenly and don’t stick to the grates.*

### 4. Thread the Shrimp onto Skewers

Remove the shrimp from the marinade. Discard the marinade. Thread the shrimp onto the skewers, leaving a small space between each shrimp to allow for even cooking. Aim for about 4-5 shrimp per skewer, depending on the size of the shrimp and the length of your skewers.

*Why this step is important: Skewering the shrimp makes them easier to handle on the grill and ensures that they cook evenly. Leaving space between the shrimp allows for better heat circulation.*

### 5. Grill the Shrimp Skewers

Place the shrimp skewers on the preheated grill. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque and have a slight char. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become tough and rubbery.

*Why this step is important: The grilling time will vary depending on the size of the shrimp and the heat of your grill. Keep a close eye on the shrimp and remove them from the grill as soon as they are cooked through.*

### 6. Serve

Remove the shrimp skewers from the grill and serve immediately. Garnish with lemon wedges and chopped fresh parsley, if desired. These skewers are delicious served on their own as an appetizer, or as part of a larger meal with rice, vegetables, or salad.

## Tips for Perfect Grilled Shrimp

* **Use High-Quality Shrimp:** The better the quality of the shrimp, the better the final result will be. Look for shrimp that is firm, plump, and has a fresh, sea-like smell.
* **Don’t Overcrowd the Grill:** Overcrowding the grill will lower the temperature and prevent the shrimp from browning properly. Cook the shrimp in batches if necessary.
* **Use a Grill Basket:** If you’re worried about the shrimp falling through the grill grates, use a grill basket. This will also make it easier to flip the shrimp.
* **Pat the Shrimp Dry:** Before marinating, pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. This will help the marinade adhere to the shrimp better.
* **Soak Wooden Skewers:** If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning.
* **Monitor the Internal Temperature:** While not always necessary for small shrimp, for larger sizes you can use a meat thermometer. Shrimp are fully cooked at 145°F (63°C).

## Variations and Additions

* **Spicy Shrimp:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade for a spicy kick.
* **Garlic Butter Shrimp:** After grilling, brush the shrimp skewers with garlic butter for extra flavor.
* **Coconut Shrimp:** Coat the shrimp in shredded coconut before grilling for a tropical twist.
* **Vegetable Skewers:** Add vegetables like bell peppers, onions, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes to the skewers along with the shrimp.
* **Pineapple Shrimp:** Add chunks of pineapple to the skewers for a sweet and savory combination.
* **Honey Garlic Shrimp:** Replace the lemon juice with honey for a sweeter marinade. Add a little soy sauce for umami.
* **Herb Variations:** Experiment with different herbs in the marinade. Dill, thyme, and rosemary are all great options.
* **Spice Blends:** Try using pre-made spice blends like Cajun seasoning or blackened seasoning for a different flavor profile.

## Serving Suggestions

* **Appetizer:** Serve the shrimp skewers as an appetizer at your next party or barbecue.
* **Main Course:** Serve the shrimp skewers as a main course with rice, quinoa, or couscous.
* **Salad Topping:** Top a salad with grilled shrimp skewers for a protein-packed and flavorful meal.
* **Tacos:** Use the grilled shrimp as a filling for tacos, along with your favorite toppings.
* **Pasta:** Toss the grilled shrimp with pasta and a light sauce for a quick and easy dinner.
* **Grilled Vegetable Platter:** Serve alongside grilled zucchini, bell peppers, asparagus, and corn.

## Storage and Reheating

* **Storage:** Leftover grilled shrimp skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
* **Reheating:** Reheat the shrimp skewers in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp when reheating, as they can become tough.

## Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)

* Calories: 200
* Protein: 25g
* Fat: 10g
* Carbohydrates: 2g
* Fiber: 0g
* Sugar: 1g

*Note: Nutritional information is approximate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.*

## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

**Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?**

A: Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before marinating and grilling. Place the frozen shrimp in a bowl of cold water or thaw them in the refrigerator overnight.

**Q: Can I grill the shrimp indoors?**

A: Yes, you can grill the shrimp indoors using a grill pan or an indoor grill. Follow the same instructions as for outdoor grilling.

**Q: Can I make the marinade ahead of time?**

A: Yes, you can make the marinade ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, do not marinate the shrimp for longer than 30 minutes.

**Q: What if I don’t have fresh herbs?**

A: You can substitute dried herbs for fresh herbs. Use about 1 teaspoon of dried herbs for every tablespoon of fresh herbs.

**Q: How do I know when the shrimp is cooked?**

A: The shrimp is cooked when it turns pink and opaque and has a slight char. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).

**Q: Can I add other vegetables to the skewers?**

A: Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the skewers, such as bell peppers, onions, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes.

**Q: What kind of grill is best for grilling shrimp?**

A: Any type of grill can be used for grilling shrimp, whether it’s a gas grill, charcoal grill, or electric grill. Just make sure the grill is preheated to medium-high heat.

**Q: How do I prevent the shrimp from sticking to the grill?**

A: To prevent the shrimp from sticking to the grill, make sure the grill grates are clean and well-oiled. You can also use a grill basket or aluminum foil.

**Q: What is the best way to devein shrimp?**

A: To devein shrimp, use a small, sharp knife to make a shallow cut along the back of the shrimp. Remove the dark vein with the tip of the knife or your fingers.

**Q: Can I use different types of citrus juice?**

A: Yes, you can experiment with different types of citrus juice in the marinade. Lime juice, orange juice, and grapefruit juice are all good options.

## Conclusion

Grilled Marinated Shrimp Skewers are a delightful and easy way to enjoy the flavors of summer. The simple marinade infuses the shrimp with a burst of flavor, and the grilling process imparts a smoky char that is simply irresistible. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, these shrimp skewers are sure to be a hit. So fire up the grill and get ready to enjoy some delicious grilled shrimp!

Enjoy cooking!