Shrimp Kebab

Grilling season is upon us, and what better way to celebrate than with delicious Shrimp Kebab? These succulent shrimp are marinated in a mouthwatering garlic lemon butter sauce that enhances their natural sweetness. Perfect for summer barbecues, family gatherings, or a cozy dinner at home, this shrimp kebab recipe is sure to impress. With its quick prep time and vibrant flavors, it’s a dish you’ll find yourself making again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 20 minutes from start to finish, you can serve up tasty shrimp kebabs without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Flavor-Packed: The garlic lemon butter marinade infuses every bite with rich flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
• Versatile Dish: Great for various occasions—from casual weeknight dinners to festive gatherings—these kebabs fit right in.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and low in carbs, shrimp kebabs are a nutritious choice for those looking to eat well.
• Grill-Friendly: Perfectly suited for outdoor grilling, these kebabs bring summer vibes to any meal.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment makes grilling shrimp kebabs easier and ensures delicious results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skewers (bamboo or metal)
• Grill (charcoal or gas)
• Mixing bowl
• Basting brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Skewers: They make it easy to grill multiple shrimp at once while keeping them juicy and tender.
• Grill: A good grill offers even heat distribution, perfect for achieving that lovely char on the shrimp.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining your marinade evenly before coating the shrimp.
• Basting brush: Great for applying additional marinade during grilling to enhance flavor.

Ingredients

Grilled garlic butter shrimp kebabs threaded on skewers. This shrimp kebab recipe is perfectly grilled with garlic lemon butter marinade. So delicious!

For the Shrimp

• 3 lbs (1.35kg) shrimp (shelled and deveined tail-on)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
• 1 pinch salt
• 3 dashes cayenne pepper
• 1 1/2 tablespoons lemon juice

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Shrimp Kebab

Step 1: Prepare the Skewers

Soak the bamboo skewers in water for about 30 minutes before grilling. This prevents them from burning on the grill.

Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp

Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Set aside while you make the marinade.

Step 3: Make the Marinade

In a mixing bowl, combine minced garlic, melted butter, salt, cayenne pepper, and lemon juice. Reserve some of this mixture for basting during grilling.

Step 4: Assemble the Kebabs

Toss the shrimp in the prepared garlic butter mixture until well-coated. Thread three shrimp onto each skewer.

Step 5: Grill the Kebabs

Preheat your grill over medium heat. Grill the shrimp skewers for about 2-3 minutes per side. Brush with reserved marinade while cooking for extra flavor.

Step 6: Serve

Once cooked through and slightly charred, remove from grill. Serve immediately with a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top for garnish!

How to Serve Shrimp Kebab

Serving shrimp kebabs can elevate any meal or gathering. These flavorful skewers are versatile and can be paired with various accompaniments to suit your taste.

With Fresh Salad

• Garden Salad: A light garden salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes complements the richness of the shrimp kebab.
• Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing and crunchy croutons add a delightful contrast to the grilled shrimp.

In Tacos

• Shrimp Tacos: Serve the shrimp kebabs in soft tortillas with cabbage slaw and lime crema for a fresh twist.
• Spicy Shrimp Tacos: Add jalapeños and avocado for a spicy kick that pairs well with the grilled flavors.

As Appetizers

• Shrimp Kebab Bites: Cut the kebabs into smaller pieces for easy snacking at parties or gatherings.
• Dipping Sauces: Offer garlic aioli or spicy sriracha sauce on the side for dipping.

How to Perfect Shrimp Kebab

To create perfect shrimp kebabs, follow these simple tips for an unforgettable flavor experience.

• Marinate Longer: Let the shrimp sit in the garlic butter marinade for at least 30 minutes to enhance their flavor.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and high-quality butter make a significant difference in taste.
• Preheat Your Grill: Make sure your grill is hot before adding the skewers; this helps achieve a nice char.
• Watch Cooking Time: Grill the shrimp for only 2-3 minutes per side to avoid overcooking; they should be opaque and firm.
• Alternate Ingredients: Consider adding bell peppers or onions between the shrimp for added flavor and color.
• Rest Before Serving: Allow the cooked kebabs to rest for a few minutes before serving to maintain juiciness.

Best Side Dishes for Shrimp Kebab

Pairing your shrimp kebab with the right sides can enhance your meal. Here are some great options that complement this dish beautifully.

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover garlic butter from the kebabs.
2. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf adds a subtle flavor that balances out the rich shrimp.
3. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus add color and nutrition to your plate.
4. Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw brings crunch and acidity, enhancing the overall meal experience.
5. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with herbs provides a healthy option that pairs well with shrimp kebabs.
6. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn complements grilled flavors perfectly and is always a crowd favorite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making shrimp kebabs can be straightforward, but there are common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here are a few tips to ensure your Shrimp Kebab turns out perfect.

• Boldly Overcooking the Shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly. Overcooking can make it rubbery. Grill for just a few minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque.
• Ignoring Skewer Soaking: Not soaking bamboo skewers in water can cause them to burn on the grill. Always soak them for at least 30 minutes prior to grilling.
• Skipping the Marinade Time: Rushing the marinating process limits flavor absorption. Allow the shrimp to marinate for at least 15 minutes for maximum taste.
• Using Cold Shrimp: Grilling shrimp directly from the fridge can lead to uneven cooking. Let them sit at room temperature for about 10–15 minutes before grilling.
• Not Basting Enough: Forgetting to baste the shrimp with marinade during grilling can result in dryness. Brush with garlic butter mixture frequently as they cook.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Shrimp Kebab in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 2–3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Shrimp Kebab

• For longer storage, freeze cooked shrimp kebabs.
• Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be stored for up to 2 months.

Reheating Shrimp Kebab

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the kebabs on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes, until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place kebabs on a microwave-safe plate. Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds until warmed, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a little butter or oil and warm each skewer for about 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should I marinate my shrimp for the best Shrimp Kebab?

Marinating shrimp for at least 15 minutes allows them to absorb flavors well. You can marinate up to an hour if you prefer more intense flavor.

What is the best way to grill shrimp kebabs?

The best way is on medium-high heat, brushing with garlic butter while cooking. This ensures they cook evenly and remain juicy.

Can I use frozen shrimp for this Shrimp Kebab recipe?

Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely before marinating and grilling.

What sides pair well with Shrimp Kebab?

Grilled vegetables, rice pilaf, or a fresh salad complement shrimp kebabs nicely. They add balance and texture to your meal.

Final Thoughts

This Shrimp Kebab recipe is both delicious and versatile, making it perfect for any occasion—from family dinners to summer barbecues. Feel free to customize with your favorite spices or vegetables threaded onto the skewers. Enjoy this delightful dish and impress your guests!

Print

Shrimp Kebab

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Grilling season is here, and there’s no better way to celebrate than with these flavorful Shrimp Kebabs. Marinated in a zesty garlic lemon butter sauce, these tender and juicy shrimp are perfect for summer barbecues, family gatherings, or an intimate dinner at home. With just 20 minutes from prep to plate, this quick and easy recipe delivers vibrant flavors that will keep you coming back for more. Ideal for any occasion, these kebabs are not only delicious but also a healthy option packed with protein and low in carbs. Fire up the grill and get ready to impress your guests with this delightful dish!

• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3 lbs shrimp (shelled, deveined, tail-on)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
• 1 pinch salt
• 3 dashes cayenne pepper
• 1.5 tablespoons lemon juice
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Soak bamboo skewers in water for 30 minutes.
2. Rinse shrimp under cold water and pat dry.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine garlic, melted butter, salt, cayenne pepper, and lemon juice (reserve some for basting).
4. Toss shrimp in the marinade until well coated; thread three shrimp onto each skewer.
5. Preheat grill to medium heat; grill skewers for about 2-3 minutes per side while brushing with reserved marinade.
6. Once cooked through and slightly charred, remove from grill and garnish with parsley before serving.

• Author: Juniper
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 skewer (about 5 shrimp)
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 0 g
• Sodium: 550 mg
• Fat: 12 g
• Saturated Fat: 7 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 2 g
• Fiber: 0 g
• Protein: 23 g
• Cholesterol: 170 mg

Keywords: Marinate shrimp for at least 30 minutes for deeper flavor. Consider adding veggies like bell peppers or onions on the skewers for added color and taste. Serve with fresh salads or rice pilaf to complete your meal.