Shrimp skewers are a fantastic choice for a flavorful, healthy, and versatile dish. Whether you grill them outdoors, broil them in the oven, or sear them on a stovetop, these skewers can be tailored to any occasion. They’re not only a crowd-pleaser but also a lean source of protein with numerous health benefits.

What Goes With Shrimp on a Skewer?

Pairing shrimp skewers with complementary sides elevates your meal. Here are some ideas:

Quinoa Salad: Combine chickpeas, diced avocado, and cherry tomatoes with a lemon-tahini dressing for a light but satisfying dish.
Couscous and Vegetables: A Mediterranean-inspired option that pairs perfectly with the grilled flavors of shrimp skewers.
Grilled Veggies: Zucchini, bell peppers, and onions can be skewered alongside the shrimp or served as a side.
Dipping Sauces: Options like garlic aioli, spicy sriracha mayo, or lemon-butter sauce add a burst of flavor.

How to Properly Skewer Shrimp

The secret to perfect shrimp skewers lies in the preparation. Follow these steps for the best results:

Rinse the shrimp: Always rinse raw shrimp under cold water before cooking to remove impurities.
Skewer correctly: Thread the shrimp through the tail and thickest part of the body to ensure even cooking.
Use two skewers: To prevent shrimp from spinning, use two parallel skewers for stability.

Grilling Shrimp Skewers: Timing and Techniques

Grilling shrimp is quick and easy if you follow these tips:

Grill raw shrimp: Always use raw shrimp for grilling; pre-cooked shrimp can become rubbery.
Cooking time: Grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side over medium heat until they turn pink and opaque.
Avoid toughness: Overcooking can make shrimp tough. Remove them from heat immediately once done.
Prevent sticking: Oil the grill grates and brush the shrimp with olive oil before placing them on the grill.
Open or closed lid? Grill shrimp with the lid open for better control over doneness.

Bobby Flay’s Tip for Perfect Grilled Shrimp

Chef Bobby Flay recommends using a simple olive oil, garlic, lemon zest, and herbs marinade to enhance the natural flavors. Grill over medium-high heat and finish with a squeeze of lemon for freshness.

Why Is My Grilled Shrimp Tough?

Tough shrimp are typically a result of overcooking. Shrimp cook incredibly fast—just a couple of minutes on each side is enough. Use a thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 120°F but no higher.

Lemon-Garlic Shrimp Skewers

Total Time: 26 minutes
Yield: Serves 4

Print Recipe

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
Zest and juice of 1 lemon
1 tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
Wooden or metal skewers

Instructions

Prepare the shrimp: Rinse and pat dry. Skewer the shrimp securely, threading through the tail and body.
Make the marinade: In a bowl, combine olive oil, garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Marinate: Pour the marinade over the shrimp and let sit for 15–20 minutes.
Grill: Preheat the grill to medium heat. Brush the grates with oil to prevent sticking. Grill shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and slightly charred.
Serve: Pair with quinoa salad or couscous for a complete meal.

Notes

For best results, soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
Always grill shrimp with the lid open for better heat control and to avoid overcooking.
Avoid marinating for longer than 30 minutes, as the acid in the lemon juice can start to “cook” the shrimp.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 6 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Grilling
Cuisine: Mediterranean

Keywords: shrimp skewers, grilled shrimp, lemon garlic shrimp, healthy seafood recipes

FAQs: Mastering Shrimp Skewers

Do you rinse shrimp before grilling?

Yes, rinsing the shrimp removes any residual sand or debris. This step ensures that the shrimp are clean and ready for grilling.

How do you keep shrimp from sticking to the grill?

To prevent sticking, oil the grill grates thoroughly and lightly coat the shrimp with olive oil before grilling. This method creates a non-stick surface and ensures easy flipping.

Should you grill shrimp with the lid open or closed?

Keep the grill lid open while cooking shrimp. This allows you to monitor them closely and avoid overcooking, which is crucial for achieving tender, flavorful results.

Conclusion

From their quick cooking time to their adaptability to various flavors, shrimp skewers are a must-try dish. Pair them with sides like couscous or a refreshing quinoa salad, and experiment with marinades like lemon-garlic or spicy Cajun for an extra kick. With these tips and techniques, you’ll be grilling shrimp skewers like a pro in no time!

If you’re looking for more meal inspiration, don’t miss my guide on 10 good dinner foods—packed with ideas to make your next meal unforgettable!

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Shrimp Skewers: Perfect Tips for Juicy and Flavorful Grilling