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Flavorful Lemon Garlic Shrimp Skewers with Zesty Glaze

lemon garlic shrimp skewers - featured image

These shrimp skewers are quick, easy, and bursting with bright lemon and garlic flavor, enhanced by a subtle honey sweetness and smoked paprika. Perfect for a casual weeknight or last-minute get-together.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (wild-caught preferred)
  • Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning)
  • 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 large lemon)
  • 2 teaspoons lemon zest
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin preferred)
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes if using.
  2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, olive oil, honey, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
  3. Toss the shrimp in the marinade, coating thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for 15-20 minutes, no longer to avoid shrimp becoming rubbery.
  4. Thread 4-5 shrimp per skewer, piercing through the thickest part to keep them secure but not squished.
  5. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (375–400°F).
  6. Place skewers on the grill and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, brushing with leftover marinade halfway through cooking.
  7. After cooking, brush skewers with glaze off heat and let rest for 2 minutes before serving.

Notes

Do not marinate shrimp longer than 20 minutes to avoid rubbery texture. Pat shrimp dry before skewering for better caramelization. Use medium-high heat to avoid overcooking. Brush glaze frequently during grilling for best flavor. Fresh shrimp preferred over frozen; if frozen, thaw and pat dry thoroughly.

Nutrition

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