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Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp Skewers

Juicy Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp Skewers

Mediterranean grilled shrimp skewers are a quick, healthy, and flavor-packed dish made with simple ingredients like olive oil, garlic, lemon, and herbs. The shrimp are marinated briefly to absorb bold Mediterranean flavors, then grilled to perfection in just minutes.
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, summer barbecues, or light meal prep. It’s versatile, easy to customize, and pairs beautifully with a variety of sides like salads, grains, or grilled vegetables. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, it’s a go-to seafood recipe you’ll want to make again and again.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Total Time 23 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Mediterranean
Servings 4 Servings
Calories 245 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the shrimp:

  • 1 pound large or jumbo shrimp peeled and deveined (tails on or off)

For the marinade:

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon paprika or smoked paprika for extra depth
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Optional additions:

  • Red pepper flakes for heat
  • Fresh parsley for garnish
  • A squeeze of extra lemon before serving

For skewers:

  • Metal skewers or wooden skewers soaked in water for at least 20 minutes

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

  • Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Make sure they’re peeled and deveined for the best texture.

Step 2: Make the Marinade

  • In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Step 3: Marinate the Shrimp

  • Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss to coat evenly. Let them marinate for 15 to 30 minutes. Avoid marinating longer than that, as the acid from the lemon juice can start to break down the shrimp.

Step 4: Assemble the Skewers

  • Thread the shrimp onto skewers, piercing near the head and tail so they stay secure and cook evenly.

Step 5: Preheat the Grill

  • Heat your grill to medium-high and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.

Step 6: Grill the Shrimp

  • Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side. Shrimp cook quickly, so keep a close eye on them.

Step 7: Check for Doneness

  • The shrimp are ready when they turn opaque and develop a slight char on the outside. They should form a gentle “C” shape when cooked.

Step 8: Finish and Serve

  • Remove from the grill and garnish with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice. Serve immediately for the best flavor.
Keyword Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp Skewers