There's something magical about the sizzling sound of shrimp hitting a hot grill on a summer evening. The aroma of garlic, lemon, and fresh herbs fills the air, teasing your taste buds before the first bite even touches your lips.

I first made these Grilled Lemon Herb Shrimp Skewers on a whim for a last-minute backyard gathering. What started as a quick solution for unexpected guests has now become my go-to recipe for warm weather entertaining—quick, easy, and guaranteed to impress.

Why You'll Love This Grilled Lemon Herb Shrimp Skewers

Get ready to discover your new favorite summer recipe. These Grilled Lemon Herb Shrimp Skewers are bursting with bright, fresh flavors and take just minutes to prepare.

First and foremost, they're incredibly quick to make. With just 10 minutes of prep and a few minutes on the grill, you can have a restaurant-quality dish on the table faster than you can set it.

They're also wonderfully light and healthy. Shrimp is naturally low in calories and fat while being high in protein, making this a guilt-free indulgence you can feel good about.

Budget-friendly is another big win here. Shrimp is often more affordable than many cuts of meat, especially when purchased frozen. The other ingredients—lemons, herbs, garlic—are pantry staples that won’t break the bank.

And let’s not forget versatility. These skewers are perfect for appetizers, main courses, or even tossed into a salad. You can easily scale the recipe up or down depending on your crowd.

With all these benefits, you’ll find yourself making these Grilled Lemon Herb Shrimp Skewers all season long.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of these Grilled Lemon Herb Shrimp Skewers lies in their simplicity. Each ingredient works together to create a harmonious balance of bright citrus, savory herbs, and tender shrimp.

Shrimp is the undeniable star of this dish. I prefer using large or extra-large shrimp (16/20 count), which are easy to skewer and remain juicy on the grill. Make sure to peel and devein them beforehand, leaving the tails on for an attractive presentation.

Lemon juice and zest provide the zippy, bright flavor that makes this dish so refreshing. Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best taste, and don’t skip the zest—it adds a punch of citrusy aroma that elevates the marinade.

Garlic brings a savory, slightly spicy depth that perfectly balances the acidity of the lemon. Freshly minced garlic cloves work best here, releasing their full flavor into the marinade.

Fresh herbs like parsley and basil contribute vibrant color and earthy notes. You can experiment with other herbs like cilantro or dill depending on your preference, but parsley is my go-to for its versatility.

Olive oil ties everything together, helping the marinade coat the shrimp evenly while adding richness and preventing sticking on the grill.

For equipment, you’ll need either metal skewers or pre-soaked wooden skewers to prevent burning. A grill or grill pan heated to medium-high is essential to achieve those beautiful char marks.

How To Make This Grilled Lemon Herb Shrimp Skewers

Creating these Grilled Lemon Herb Shrimp Skewers couldn’t be simpler. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure success every time.

Start by preparing your shrimp. If they’re frozen, thaw them under cold running water until fully defrosted. Peel and devein, leaving the tails on if desired, and pat dry with paper towels to help the marinade adhere.

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the marinade. Combine fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and olive oil. Season with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper. The mixture should smell vibrant and fresh.

Add the shrimp to the marinade, tossing gently to coat each piece. Cover and refrigerate for 20-30 minutes. Don’t marinate longer, as the acid from the lemon can start to break down the delicate shrimp.

While the shrimp marinate, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.

Thread the marinated shrimp onto the skewers, piercing through both the head and tail ends to keep them secure. This helps the shrimp lay flat on the grill, ensuring even cooking.

Place the skewers on the hot grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side. You’ll know they’re done when the shrimp turn pink and opaque with nice grill marks. Be careful not to overcook, as shrimp can become rubbery quickly.

In total, you’re looking at about 30 minutes from start to finish—a perfect option for a quick weeknight meal or impromptu gathering.

Storage Options

These Grilled Lemon Herb Shrimp Skewers are best enjoyed fresh off the grill, but leftovers can be stored safely with a few simple steps.

If you have leftover shrimp, remove them from the skewers and transfer to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Because seafood is delicate, it’s best not to keep them much longer.

For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

To reheat, gently warm the shrimp in a skillet over low heat or briefly in the microwave. Be careful not to overheat, as this can make them tough.

Variations and Substitutions

The flexibility of this recipe means you can easily tailor it to your taste or dietary needs.

For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade. The heat pairs beautifully with the lemony freshness.

If you prefer a different herb profile, try swapping parsley for cilantro or fresh dill. Each brings a unique flavor that complements the shrimp in its own way.

Don’t have fresh lemons? Bottled lemon juice can work in a pinch, though the flavor won’t be quite as vibrant. Always try to include some zest if possible.

For a Mediterranean twist, add crumbled feta cheese and a drizzle of balsamic glaze when serving. It turns the dish into a more substantial entrée.

If you don’t have a grill, you can easily make these skewers under the broiler or on a stovetop grill pan. The key is high heat and quick cooking.

Don’t be afraid to get creative with these Grilled Lemon Herb Shrimp Skewers. Once you master the basic technique, the possibilities are endless.