Grilled shrimp kebabs are a fun and tasty dish! They’re made with juicy shrimp, colorful veggies, and a sprinkle of seasoning, all grilled to perfection.
These kebabs are super easy to make and perfect for a summer cookout! I love serving them with a squeeze of lemon for some zing—so refreshing!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large, peeled, and deveined shrimp work best for kebabs. If you can’t find fresh shrimp, frozen ones work too; just ensure they are thawed completely. For a different protein, you can also use chicken or firm tofu.
Olive Oil: This adds great flavor and helps with grilling. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute with avocado oil. Both oils handle the heat well.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a wonderful aroma and taste. If you’re short on time, garlic powder can be a suitable substitute, but fresh is usually best for that kick.
Fresh Parsley: It brightens up the dish. If you don’t have fresh parsley, you could use dried herbs, but reduce the amount since they’re more concentrated. Cilantro is also a great alternative if you enjoy its flavor.
Spices: Smoked paprika adds depth. If you don’t have it, regular paprika or even a dash of cayenne can spice things up. For a milder flavor, omit the chili flakes.
How Do I Ensure My Shrimp Are Perfectly Grilled?
Getting the shrimp just right is essential! Here are a few tips to help you achieve that:
- Marinate Well: Make sure the shrimp soak in the marinade long enough for flavor, but not too long (30 minutes is perfect) to avoid being mushy.
- Preheat Your Grill: A hot grill makes for great sear marks and prevents sticking. Medium-high heat works best for shrimp.
- Don’t Overcook: Shrimp cooks quickly! 2-3 minutes per side should do it. They’re ready when they turn pink and opaque.
- Skewering Tips: Use soaked wooden skewers to prevent burning. Make sure to leave space between shrimp on the skewer for even cooking.
With these tips, your grilled shrimp will be juicy and delicious every time!
Grilled Shrimp Kebabs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on)
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional for heat)
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 20-30 minutes for marinating the shrimp. You’ll need around 10 minutes for grilling. So, in total, you can expect about 45 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
Start by gathering a large bowl. In it, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, chopped parsley, smoked paprika, ground cumin, oregano, chili flakes (if you like some heat), lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir everything until well combined to create your flavorful marinade.
2. Marinate the Shrimp:
Next, add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the bowl with the marinade. Toss the shrimp gently to ensure they are coated evenly in the marinade. Once coated, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 20-30 minutes. This step allows all those delicious flavors to soak into the shrimp!
3. Preheat the Grill:
While the shrimp marinates, you can preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures that the shrimp will cook evenly and have that attractive grilled look!
4. Skewer the Shrimp:
After the shrimp have finished marinating, it’s time to thread them onto your soaked wooden skewers. Aim for about 4-5 shrimp per skewer, making sure to leave a bit of space in between each shrimp to promote even cooking.
5. Grill the Kebabs:
Now, place the shrimp skewers on the hot grill. Grill for about 2-3 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re ready when the shrimp are pink and opaque, and you can see nice grill marks on them. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once grilled to perfection, remove the shrimp kebabs from the grill and arrange them on a serving platter. You can sprinkle some extra chopped parsley on top for garnish. Pair with lemon wedges or your favorite dipping sauce for extra zest!
Enjoy these juicy, flavorful grilled shrimp kebabs as an appetizer or a delightful main dish!
Can I Use Different Vegetables on the Kebabs?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or red onions to your skewers. Just make sure to cut them into similar-sized pieces for even cooking!
What Can I Substitute for Shrimp?
If you’re looking for an alternative, chicken breast or firm tofu are great options. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time: chicken may take a bit longer, while tofu should be cooked until warmed through and lightly charred.
How Do I Store Leftover Kebabs?
Store any leftover kebabs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm them in the microwave or on a skillet to maintain their texture.
Can I Make the Marinade in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the marinade ahead of time! Store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before using it with your shrimp or other proteins.