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This juicy Garlic Shrimp recipe is marinated in a zesty garlic-lemon blend and perfectly grilled to smoky perfection. It’s a quick, easy, and mouthwatering dish that brings a burst of flavor to every bite. Ideal for BBQs, family dinners, or a delightful treat any night of the week!

Garlicky Shrimp kabobs on a platter.
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Grilled Garlic Shrimp is a perfect dish for seafood enthusiasts who appreciate simple yet delicious flavors. This recipe combines the rich, savory taste of garlic with the delicate sweetness of shrimp, creating a dish that’s both quick and easy to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • It’s got a bright flavor. The tangy garlic studded lemon and herb marinade perfectly balance the sweet taste of the shrimp. 
  • It’s perfect for advance prep. Marinate the shrimp and thread them onto skewers up to 1-2 hours in advance. 
  • It’s so easy. The marinade comes together in seconds, and the garlicky shrimp grill to perfection in about 5 minutes. 

Ingredients for Grilled Garlic Shrimp

Ingredients needed for grilled garlic shrimp skewers.
  • Olive Oil: or use your favorite light, neutral-flavored oil 
  • Parsley: freshly chopped parsley adds flavor and a pop of color. 
  • Lemon Juice: always use freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • Garlic: Garlic is the star of this recipe and freshly minced garlic is a must. 
  • Seasonings: combine dried Italian seasonings, salt, crushed red pepper flakes and ground black pepper.
  • Shrimp: purchase large shrimp that are peeled and deveined and have the tail on. 
  • Lemon Wedges: to garnish.

Substitutions and Variations

  • Shrimp Substitutes: If shrimp isn’t available, you can use scallops, calamari or firm white first.
  • Garlic Alternatives: For a milder flavor, substitute garlic with shallots or use garlic powder instead.
  • Oil Options: Replace olive oil with avocado oil or melted butter for a different richness.
  • Herbs: Swap parsley with cilantro, basil, or dill for a fresh twist.

How To Grill Shrimp

Mixing ingredients for garlic citrus marinade.
Step 1: Prepare the marinade. In a small bowl, whisk together the ingredients to marinate; olive oil, parsley, lemon juice, garlic, lemon zest, Italian seasonings, salt, crushed red pepper, and black pepper.
How to marinate shrimp for grilled garlic shrimp skewers.
Step 2: Marinate the shrimp. Pour the marinade over the shrimp and toss until well coated. Allow the shrimp to marinate for at least 30 minutes.
Shrimp skewers coated in a garlic citrus marinade.
Step 3: Skewer the shrimp. Thread the shrimp on a wooden or metal skewer until the end of the skewers.
Shrimp kabobs with garlic on a white platter with lemon wedges.
Step 4: Grill the shrimp. Place the shrimp skewers on the griddle or grill pan and cook for 4-5 minutes until the shrimp is cooked through, turning the skewers often. Garnish and serve.

Tips To Make The Best Grilled Shrimp Recipe

  • Marination Time: Marinate the shrimp for at least 30 minutes but no more than 2 hours to prevent the acid from the lemon juice from cooking the shrimp.
  • Grilling Temperature: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures the shrimp cooks quickly and evenly.
  • Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before using to prevent them from burning.
  • Avoid Overcooking: Grill shrimp for about 2-3 minutes per side. Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long to marinate shrimp?

When marinating shrimp, you should aim for a minimum of 30 minutes and no longer than two hours, as the shrimp will start to break down and may become mushy. 

How long do you grill shrimp for?

Cook the shrimp skewers for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are pink and translucent, firm but not rubbery.

How to store and reheat grilled shrimp?

Leftover shrimp can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days. Reheat the shrimp in a skillet until just warmed through. Reheated shrimp can turn rubbery quickly, so watch closely. 

Can I freeze garlic grilled shrimp?

Yes. Freeze shrimp for up to 3 months. Defrost overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving. Even though, I prefer to always eat fresh food.

How to know when grilled shrimp is done?

Shrimp is cooked when it turns pink and opaque. The flesh should be firm but not rubbery.

What kind of shrimp is best for grilling?

Jumbo or colossal-sized shrimp are ideal for grilling.

What to Serve with Grilled Garlic Shrimp

Grilled garlic shrimp pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Here area a few of my favorites.

Garlicky shrimp skewers on a plate.

More Easy Shrimp Recipes

This Grilled Garlic Shrimp recipe is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to enjoy a quick, flavorful seafood dish. With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, it’s perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Give it a try, and it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection!

If you try this recipe or any of my other recipes, please leave a star rating in the comment section below because I love hearing from my readers. Also follow me at Cookin’ With Mima on FACEBOOK |INSTAGRAM |PINTEREST for all of my latest social posts and recipes.

5 from 2 votes

Grilled Garlic Shrimp

Grilled Garlic Shrimp marinated in a homemade lemon garlic dressing, grilled for approximately 5-6 minutes with the tails on, making them easy to grab and enjoy.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 6 minutes
Marinating Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 46 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients 

  • ¼ cup olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons parsley, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 2 teaspoon minced garlic
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasonings
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
  • ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • lb large shrimp, peeled & deveined, tail-ON
  • Lemon wedges, to garnish

Instructions 

  • In a small bowl, whisk together the ingredients to marinate; olive oil, parsley, lemon juice, garlic, lime zest, Italian seasonings, salt, crushed red pepper, and black pepper.
  • Pour the marinade over the shrimp and toss until well coated. Allow the shrimp to marinate for at least 30 minutes.
  • Thread the shrimp on a wooden or metal skewer until the end of the skewers.
  • Place the shrimp skewers on the griddle or grill pan and cook for 4-5 minutes until the shrimp is cooked through, turning the skewers often.
  • Once done, garnish the shrimp skewers with parsley and lemon wedges before servings.

Notes

  • Marination Time: Marinate the shrimp for at least 30 minutes but no more than 2 hours to prevent the acid from the lemon juice from cooking the shrimp.
  • Grilling Temperature: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures the shrimp cooks quickly and evenly.
  • Avoid Overcooking: Grill shrimp for about 2-3 minutes per side. Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery.

Nutrition

Calories: 128kcal | Carbohydrates: 2g | Protein: 0.3g | Fat: 14g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 10g | Sodium: 592mg | Potassium: 50mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 0.3g | Vitamin A: 411IU | Vitamin C: 7mg | Calcium: 19mg | Iron: 1mg
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5 from 2 votes (1 rating without comment)

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