Description
Mediterranean-inspired grilled citrus shrimp skewers deliver a zesty ocean-fresh explosion of flavor. Lemon, garlic, and herbs dance together, creating a light summer dish perfect for coastal dining experiences and quick weeknight meals.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb. shrimp, (16–20 or 21–25 count), peeled and deveined
Marinade Ingredients:
- ¼ cup olive oil
- ¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons chopped Italian parsley
Seasoning Ingredients:
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 pinch of crushed red pepper flakes, optional
Garnish:
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Immerse wooden skewers in cold water for a minimum of 20 minutes to prevent charring during high-temperature cooking.
- Craft a vibrant marinade by whisking together extra virgin olive oil, freshly grated lemon zest, tangy lemon juice, golden honey, finely minced garlic, smoky paprika, optional fiery red pepper flakes, chopped fresh parsley, kosher salt, and cracked black pepper in a mixing bowl.
- Gently fold raw shrimp into the marinade, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Cover and refrigerate for half an hour to allow flavors to infuse.
- Prepare grilling surface: for gas grills, activate half the burners to high and heat to 400°F (204°C) for 10 minutes; for charcoal grills, ignite chimney until coals are ash-covered and evenly distributed at 400°F (204°C); for stovetop grill pan, heat to medium-high.
- Carefully thread marinated shrimp onto pre-soaked skewers, placing 5-6 shrimp per skewer, positioning from thickest part of each seafood piece.
- For gas or charcoal grills, cook skewers directly over heat source 2-3 minutes until edges transform pink, then flip and grill additional 2 minutes until lightly charred. On stovetop grill pan, cook 3-3½ minutes per side until perfectly golden and opaque.
Notes
- Wooden skewers require water soaking to prevent burning and ensure safe, even grilling of delicate shrimp.
- Marinate shrimp for maximum flavor infusion, allowing citrus and herbs to penetrate and tenderize the seafood.
- Achieve perfect grill temperature around 400°F to create beautiful caramelization without overcooking the shrimp.
- Thread shrimp carefully, ensuring they’re evenly spaced for consistent cooking and attractive presentation.
- Cooking time is crucial: 2-3 minutes per side guarantees juicy, tender shrimp with a light char and vibrant flavor.
- Serve immediately after grilling to enjoy the optimal texture and temperature of these zesty citrus-infused skewers.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 270 kcal
- Sugar: 9 g
- Sodium: 480 mg
- Fat: 16 g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 22 g
- Cholesterol: 180 mg