Imagine sinking your teeth into perfectly grilled shrimp, kissed by smoky char marks, bursting with zesty lemon and paprika flavors that transport you to a beachside paradise. These Bangin Grilled Shrimp Skewers are not just a meal—they're a culinary experience that will elevate your summer grilling game from ordinary to extraordinary. In just 25 minutes, you'll create a restaurant-quality dish that will have your family and friends begging for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Skewers
Instructions
- Prepare the shrimp by ensuring they are completely peeled and deveined. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve better caramelization during grilling.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine olive oil, fresh lemon juice, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Whisk the marinade ingredients until well blended.
- Add the cleaned shrimp to the marinade and gently toss to coat evenly. Let the shrimp marinate for 10-15 minutes at room temperature. Avoid marinating longer to prevent the acid from breaking down the shrimp's delicate texture.
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes prior to grilling to prevent burning. Thread the marinated shrimp onto the skewers, ensuring they are evenly spaced and not overcrowded.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 400-450°F. Clean and oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
- Place the shrimp skewers on the hot grill. Cook for approximately 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turn pink and develop light char marks. Be careful not to overcook, as shrimp can become tough and rubbery.
- Remove the skewers from the grill and let rest for 2-3 minutes. Optionally, garnish with fresh chopped parsley or cilantro and serve immediately with lemon wedges.
Tips
- Moisture is the Enemy: Always pat your shrimp completely dry before marinating to ensure perfect caramelization and prevent steaming.
- Timing is Everything: Marinate shrimp for only 10-15 minutes to preserve their delicate texture and prevent the acid from breaking down the proteins.
- Wooden Skewer Hack: Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning and potentially ruining your beautiful shrimp.
- Grill Temperature Matters: Aim for medium-high heat (400-450°F) to achieve those beautiful char marks without overcooking the shrimp.
- Don't Walk Away: Shrimp cook quickly—2-3 minutes per side is all you need. Stay attentive to prevent turning them into rubber!
- Bonus Flavor Tip: Consider adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro after grilling for an extra burst of freshness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 182kcal
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 24g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 220mg
