Save This dish features large shrimp marinated in a blend of zesty lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, and fresh herbs like parsley, basil, and dill. After marinating, the shrimp are threaded onto skewers and grilled over medium-high heat until pink and charred lightly, capturing a perfect balance of bright citrus and herbal notes. Ideal for quick summer meals or easy entertaining, the seafood offers a light, gluten-free, and low-carb option that pairs beautifully with salads, rice, or crisp white wines.
I remember the first time I discovered lemon herb grilled shrimp at a summer cookout; the bright, zesty flavors instantly won me over and made it a staple in my recipe box.
One time unexpected guests showed up and I whipped up this grilled shrimp in a flash; everyone was impressed and asked for seconds before we even sat down.
Ingredients
- Large shrimp: I always pick peeled and deveined shrimp for easy eating but leave the tails on for that perfect grilled appearance
- Olive oil: Using a good quality extra virgin olive oil brings out the freshness of the herbs and gives the marinade a silky texture
- Fresh lemon juice and zest: Nothing beats fresh lemons here because the zing is brighter and more aromatic than bottled
- Fresh herbs (parsley, basil, dill): These add a garden-fresh punch; I finely chop them so they coat the shrimp evenly
- Garlic: Minced fresh garlic is a must for that subtle warmth and depth
- Seasonings: Sea salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes add balance and a gentle kick that wakes up the palate
- Lemon wedges and extra herbs to serve: A little squeeze and sprinkle finishes the dish beautifully
Instructions
- Mix the Marinade:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, chopped parsley, basil, dill, sea salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you want a little heat. The aroma of fresh herbs mingling with lemon will fill your kitchen and make your mouth water.
- Marinate the Shrimp:
- Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the marinade and toss to coat every piece with that zesty goodness. Cover the bowl and let everything hang out in the fridge for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to seep in gently.
- Prepare Your Grill:
- Heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high so it’s nice and hot. If you're using wooden skewers, make sure to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning—trust me, that step saves grief!
- Thread and Grill:
- Thread the shrimp onto skewers, feeling the excitement build as you get closer to grilling. Place them on the hot grill and cook for 2–3 minutes per side. Listen for that satisfying sizzle and watch as the shrimp turn pink, opaque, and get those perfect lightly charred marks.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Move the shrimp to a platter right away so they stay tender and juicy. Serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges and an extra sprinkle of herbs if you like that final pop of freshness.
Save This dish became more than food one afternoon when my family celebrated a long-awaited reunion; the shrimp brought everyone together around the table with laughter and stories.
Keeping It Fresh
Using fresh herbs makes all the difference; I like to keep a small herb garden on my windowsill to clip from whenever I need that burst of green flavor.
Serving Ideas That Clicked
I’ve found that serving these shrimp over a bed of mixed greens or alongside a quinoa salad really rounds out the meal without weighing it down.
A Time This Recipe Saved the Day
One evening, when my fridge was nearly empty, a quick marinade and grill session brought everything together perfectly.
- Don’t be afraid to double the marinade for extra flavor punch
- If you want a smoky touch, add a splash of smoked paprika to the marinade
- Always preheat your grill to ensure even cooking and to prevent sticking
Save Thanks for sharing this little kitchen adventure with me; I hope these shrimp bring as much joy to your table as they have to mine.
Common Questions
- → How long should the shrimp marinate for best flavor?
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Marinate the shrimp for at least 20 minutes; up to 1 hour can enhance flavor but avoid longer to prevent mushiness.
- → What herbs are best to use in the marinade?
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Fresh parsley, basil, and dill provide a bright, fragrant herbal blend that complements the lemon's acidity.
- → Can this dish be cooked without a grill?
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Yes, grilling pans or broilers can be used to achieve a similar char and flavor when outdoor grilling isn't available.
- → What side dishes pair well with this shrimp preparation?
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Light sides like fresh salads, rice, or pasta complement the shrimp's citrus-herb profile nicely.
- → Are there any dietary considerations for this dish?
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This preparation is naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and low carb, suitable for various dietary preferences.
