These grilled shrimp kebabs are a tasty treat! With juicy shrimp marinated in zesty spices, they cook up quickly on the grill, making dinner a breeze.
Plus, they look so pretty on a plate, and everyone loves them! I usually serve them with a side of rice or a fresh salad to keep things light and fun. 🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp work best for this dish. If they’re hard to find, feel free to use medium or even frozen shrimp; just thaw them fully before marinating. I recommend using wild-caught shrimp for flavor, but farm-raised works too!
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is great for the marinade, but you can swap it with avocado oil for a different flavor profile. Don’t forget that oil helps to keep the shrimp tender on the grill!
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a lovely punch, but if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can work too. Use about 1 teaspoon of garlic powder instead of fresh.
Herbs: Fresh parsley is my go-to for its vibrant taste, but cilantro or basil can shake things up! Just be mindful of personal preferences when serving to others.
Spices: The blend of smoked paprika, cumin, and chili powder adds warm flavors. If you’re out of paprika, you can use regular paprika or even a pinch of cayenne for heat. Adjust based on your spice preference!
How Do I Ensure My Shrimp Stays Tender on the Grill?
Grilling shrimp can be tricky, but keeping them tender is key! Here’s how:
- Marinate for the right amount of time—15-30 minutes. Longer can toughen the shrimp.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high, so the shrimp cooks quickly without drying out.
- Don’t overcrowd the skewers; give shrimp space for even cooking.
- Cook for only 2-3 minutes per side. Watch for that beautiful opaque look!
With these tips, you’ll have perfectly tender shrimp kebabs every time!
Grilled Shrimp Kebabs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1.5 pounds large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails on
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes before use)
For the Optional Dipping Sauce:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon honey or brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon chopped fresh herbs (cilantro or parsley)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15-30 minutes of prep time for marination, plus 10 minutes for cooking. So, in total, you’ll need about 25-40 minutes to enjoy these delicious grilled shrimp kebabs right off the grill!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, chopped parsley, smoked paprika, ground cumin, chili powder, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Use a whisk to blend everything until it’s well combined.
2. Marinate the Shrimp:
Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the marinade. Toss gently to make sure all shrimp are coated evenly. Cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator for 15 to 30 minutes. Don’t marinate them for longer, as this can make the shrimp tough.
3. Preheat the Grill:
While the shrimp is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates using a paper towel soaked in oil to prevent sticking.
4. Assemble the Kebabs:
Once marinated, thread the shrimp onto the skewers, about 5-6 shrimp per skewer. Make sure to pierce through the thick part of the shrimp and avoid the tails so they stay on the skewers easily.
5. Grill the Shrimp:
Place the shrimp kebabs directly on the grill. Grill them for about 2-3 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re ready when they turn opaque and get slight grill marks.
6. Make the Dipping Sauce:
While the shrimp is cooking, prepare the optional dipping sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, lemon juice, minced garlic, honey, and fresh herbs until well combined.
7. Rest and Serve:
After cooking, remove the kebabs from the grill and let them rest for a minute. Serve the shrimp kebabs warm, with the dipping sauce on the side or alongside your favorite sides like rice, salad, or grilled vegetables.
Enjoy your flavorful, juicy grilled shrimp kebabs!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely by placing them in the refrigerator overnight or by running cold water over them in a sealed bag. Pat them dry before marinating to ensure they absorb all the flavors!
How Long Can I Marinate the Shrimp?
Marinate the shrimp for 15-30 minutes. If you marinate them for too long (over an hour), the acid in the lemon juice can start to cook the shrimp and make them tough.
What Should I Serve With Grilled Shrimp Kebabs?
These kebabs are delicious served over rice, in tacos, or alongside a fresh salad. They also pair wonderfully with grilled vegetables for a complete meal!
How Do I Store Leftover Grilled Shrimp?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm them gently on the stovetop or in the microwave to avoid overcooking.