I’ve never met a grilled shrimp skewer I didn’t fall in love with, but this lemon-herb version has completely stolen my heart.
As someone who’s spent a lot of time perfecting the art of outdoor grilling, I can tell you that the magic lies in the details – the bright citrus notes, the fresh herbs from my garden, and that moment when perfectly grilled shrimp meets homemade garlic aioli.
What started as a simple summer recipe has become my signature dish at every gathering.
The best part? These skewers are incredibly versatile, working beautifully as an elegant appetizer or a stunning main course.
Trust me, once you master this recipe, it’ll become your go-to for impressing guests or treating yourself to something special.
Why This Lemon Herb Grilled Shrimp Skewers Recipe Will Become Your Go-To Summer Favorite
Before we dive into the recipe, let me share why these shrimp skewers have become a staple at my outdoor gatherings.
The combination of bright citrus, fresh herbs, and succulent shrimp creates a flavor profile that’s both sophisticated and approachable.
Plus, they’re incredibly versatile – perfect as an appetizer, main course, or even atop a fresh salad.
Pro Tip: While any grill will work, I’ve found that my Master Cook Gas Griller produces the most consistent results. Its precise temperature control and even heat distribution ensure perfectly cooked shrimp every time.
Affiliate Disclosure: Kitchen tools and ingredients mentioned in this post have been carefully selected based on years of professional experience. Some links above and within the article are affiliate links, meaning I earn a small commission if you make a purchase. Rest assured, I only suggest or recommend kitchen essentials or things I use and trust in my own kitchen.
Ingredients Required To Make Lemon Herb Grilled Shrimp Skewers
For the Shrimp Marinade:
- A generous two-pound portion of premium, large shrimp (16-20 count), expertly prepared – peeled and deveined.
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil (I swear by [California Olive Ranch] for its bright, fruity notes)
- Zest and juice of 2 fresh lemons
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh oregano, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
For the Garlic Aioli:
- 1 cup high-quality mayonnaise
- 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Kitchen Essentials: I’ve tested countless tools over the years, and my OXO Stainless Steel Skewers have proven invaluable. Their flat design prevents the shrimp from spinning while grilling, ensuring even cooking.
The Art of Perfect Preparation (Prepping up the recipe)
Start with Quality Shrimp: The foundation of this dish is selecting the right shrimp. I recommend wild-caught Gulf shrimp when available – they have a sweeter, cleaner taste than farm-raised varieties. If you’re not near the coast, don’t worry! Many premium seafood suppliers like Vital Choice offer excellent flash-frozen options delivered right to your door.
Marinade Magic: In a large glass bowl (plastic can absorb flavors), combine your olive oil, lemon zest and juice, minced garlic, and fresh herbs. The key here is using fresh herbs – they make a world of difference compared to dried alternatives. My herb garden has saved me countless trips to the store, and if you’re interested in starting your own, the AeroGarden Harvest has been a game-changer in my kitchen.
Proper Marination: Thread your shrimp onto the skewers (4-5 per skewer) and place them in a shallow dish. Drench the shrimp in the marinade, making certain every crevice is coated. Let them marinate for 45 minutes to an hour – but no longer! The acid in the lemon juice can start cooking the shrimp if left too long.
Grilling Techniques for Perfect Results
Here’s where attention to detail really matters.
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375-400°F) and while it’s heating up, make your aioli by combining all ingredients in a bowl.
A Microplane Grater makes quick work of the garlic, ensuring it’s fine enough to distribute evenly through the sauce.
Grilling Tips:
- Oil your grates well to prevent sticking
- Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, watching as the shrimp transform from translucent grey to a delicate pink, kissed with enticing char marks.
- Don’t overcook! Shrimp can quickly become rubber if left too long
Serving Suggestions
Present your skewers on a bed of fresh herbs for an elegant touch.
I love using my Le Creuset Serving Platter – its clean white surface makes the colorful shrimp pop, and it retains heat beautifully to keep your dish warm.
Pair these skewers with:
- A crisp Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc
- Grilled lemon halves for an extra citrus kick
- A fresh Greek salad
- Warm pita bread
Storage and Leftover Ideas
While these skewers are best enjoyed fresh off the grill, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container (I recommend Glass Lock Containers) for up to 2 days. They’re delicious cold in a salad or gently reheated.
Commonly Asked Questions and Troubleshooting
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Absolutely! Just ensure they’re completely thawed and patted dry before marinating.
What if I don’t have fresh herbs?
While fresh is best, you can use dried herbs in a pinch. That being said, with dried herbs just calculate one-third of the amount listed in the recipe and use that.
Can I make these ahead for a party?
You can prepare the marinade and aioli up to 24 hours in advance, but wait to combine with the shrimp until 30-45 minutes before grilling.
Final Notes
After quite a while of perfecting this recipe, I can say with confidence that investing in quality ingredients and tools makes a noticeable difference in the final result.
While you can certainly make delicious shrimp skewers with basic equipment, items like good olive oil, fresh herbs, and reliable grilling tools elevate this dish from good to extraordinary.
Remember, cooking is about joy and connection so whether you’re making these skewers for a quiet dinner at home or a festive gathering, the care you put into the preparation will shine through in every bite.
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