If you’re craving a dish that bursts with bright, bold flavors and cooks up in a flash, the Garlic Grilled Shrimp Skewers Recipe is an absolute must-try. Imagine succulent shrimp marinated in a vibrant blend of garlic, fresh herbs, and a hint of citrus, all grilled to perfection on skewers that are perfect for any gathering. This recipe captures the essence of summer grilling and brings that irresistible smoky, garlicky goodness straight to your plate. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or just starting out, these shrimp skewers are both simple and stunning, making them a fantastic go-to for weeknight dinners or weekend feasts.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Garlic Grilled Shrimp Skewers Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role—from the plump shrimp providing juicy, tender bites, to the fresh herbs and garlic that elevate every mouthful with a punch of flavor. Together, they create a harmonious balance of taste and color that will make your dish shine.
- 1 pound large shrimp: Choose fresh or fully thawed shrimp for the best texture and flavor.
- ¼ cup olive oil: This keeps the shrimp moist while adding a fruity richness.
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped: Adds a bright, citrusy note that complements seafood beautifully.
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped: Brings a fresh, slightly peppery flavor and vibrant green color.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: The star of the dish, giving each bite a powerful garlicky aroma and depth.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Adds acidity that brightens and balances the richness.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all flavors and seasons the shrimp perfectly.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle warm spice without overpowering the garlic.
- Pinch of cayenne pepper: A little heat to awaken your taste buds—adjust to your spice preference.
How to Make Garlic Grilled Shrimp Skewers Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Start by whisking together olive oil, lemon juice, finely chopped cilantro and parsley, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper in a small bowl. This marinade is the flavorful foundation of your Garlic Grilled Shrimp Skewers Recipe, infusing layers of herbal brightness and garlicky richness that will deeply penetrate the shrimp.
Step 2: Marinate the Shrimp
Place the peeled and deveined shrimp in a bowl and pour over three-quarters of the marinade. Gently toss to coat every shrimp evenly without bruising their delicate texture. Cover the bowl and let the shrimp soak up all those vibrant flavors for 30 minutes to an hour—it’s worth the wait for the incredible taste that develops.
Step 3: Thread Shrimp Onto Skewers
Thread the marinated shrimp onto skewers, being sure to distribute garlic and herbs evenly as you go. This helps ensure each grilled bite is bursting with the marinade’s aromatic goodness, while keeping the shrimp perfectly secure and easy to flip on the grill.
Step 4: Grill to Perfection
Heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high and cook the shrimp skewers for 2 to 3 minutes per side. Watch closely until the shrimp turn an inviting pink and become opaque—this quick cook time seals in the shrimp’s juicy tenderness while creating those delicious grill marks that scream summer.
Step 5: Serve with Extra Marinade
Once grilled, transfer the skewers to a serving plate and spoon the remaining marinade over the top for an extra hit of flavor. This finishing touch enhances the Garlic Grilled Shrimp Skewers Recipe with even more garlicky, herby goodness that’s impossible to resist.
How to Serve Garlic Grilled Shrimp Skewers Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro or parsley brightens up the plate and complements the flavors perfectly. For an extra pop, add lemon wedges for guests to squeeze on their skewers, delivering a fresh burst of citrusy zing that lifts the garlicky shrimp beautifully.
Side Dishes
Garlic Grilled Shrimp Skewers taste incredible alongside fluffy jasmine rice or a refreshing cucumber salad. For carb lovers, crispy garlic bread or grilled corn on the cob make excellent partners. The sweetness of the corn or the crunch of a salad balances the shrimp’s smoky, savory notes wonderfully.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the skewers over a bed of vibrant greens or alongside grilled vegetables for a colorful, nutritious plate. You can also chop the cooked shrimp off the skewers and toss them into tacos or over pasta for a delicious twist. This recipe’s versatility makes it perfect for casual dinners or elegant entertaining.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store the grilled shrimp skewers in an airtight container in the fridge. They stay fresh for up to 2 days, so you can enjoy a quick seafood meal the next day without sacrificing flavor or quality.
Freezing
While shrimp are best fresh, you can freeze uncooked, marinated shrimp skewers in a freezer-safe bag for up to one month. Make sure to label them and thaw overnight in the fridge before grilling for peak taste and texture.
Reheating
To reheat cooked Garlic Grilled Shrimp Skewers Recipe servings, warm them gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or pop them under the broiler for just a minute or two. Avoid overcooking to keep the shrimp tender and juicy.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to fully thaw the shrimp before marinating to ensure they soak up all those delicious flavors evenly. Pat them dry to avoid excess moisture on the grill.
What type of shrimp is best for grilling?
Large shrimp work best because they hold up well on the grill and cook quickly without drying out. Whether fresh or frozen, peeled and deveined is ideal for ease of preparation and best flavor absorption.
Can I make this recipe spicy?
Definitely! The pinch of cayenne pepper gives a gentle kick, but you can increase the amount or add chili flakes or hot sauce to the marinade if you prefer a bolder heat level.
Is it necessary to soak wooden skewers if using these?
Yes, soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before threading the shrimp. This prevents them from burning on the grill and keeps your shrimp tasting clean and fresh.
Can I cook these shrimp skewers indoors if I don’t have a grill?
Yes! Use a grill pan or a regular skillet over medium-high heat. The key is to get a nice sear on the shrimp while cooking them quickly to maintain tenderness.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Grilled Shrimp Skewers Recipe is a total game-changer for easy, flavorful meals that come together fast but taste like you spent hours in the kitchen. Its fresh, vibrant flavors make every bite a delight, and the simplicity of ingredients means you probably have most of them on hand. So why wait? Fire up the grill, grab your skewers, and get ready to impress yourself and everyone at the table with this irresistible seafood favorite!
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Garlic Grilled Shrimp Skewers Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 35 to 65 minutes (including marinating time)
- Yield: 5 to 6 servings
- Category: Seafood
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Garlic Grilled Shrimp Skewers are a quick and flavorful dish featuring large shrimp marinated in a vibrant mixture of olive oil, fresh cilantro, parsley, garlic, and spices. Perfectly grilled to a juicy, tender finish, this recipe brings a bright, zesty, and slightly spicy taste that pairs well with a variety of sides for an easy, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
For the Marinade and Shrimp
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- ¼ cup olive oil
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Pinch of cayenne pepper, adjust to spice preference
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, cilantro, parsley, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper until well combined, creating a flavorful marinade.
- Marinate the Shrimp: Place the shrimp in a medium bowl. Pour about three-quarters of the marinade over the shrimp and gently toss to coat them evenly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 1 hour to allow the flavors to infuse.
- Thread Shrimp onto Skewers: After marinating, carefully thread the shrimp onto skewers, ensuring an even distribution of garlic and herbs from the marinade on each shrimp for maximum flavor.
- Grill the Shrimp: Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Place the shrimp skewers on the grill and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turns pink, opaque, and is cooked through.
- Serve with Remaining Marinade: Transfer the grilled shrimp skewers onto a serving plate. Spoon the reserved marinade over the top to add extra flavor and moisture just before serving.
Notes
- Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 20 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
- Adjust cayenne pepper according to desired spice level or omit for a milder dish.
- Serve with a side of rice, salad, or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
- Can be cooked on a grill pan indoors if an outdoor grill is not available.
