If you’re searching for a vibrant, fresh, and incredibly satisfying dish to fire up on a warm evening, this Lemon Herb Grilled Shrimp Recipe will become your new go-to favorite. Juicy shrimp marinated in a bright blend of lemon juice, herbs, and spices then kissed by the grill create a taste sensation that balances smoky char with zesty brightness. It’s a recipe that’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner but special enough to impress guests, combining fresh ingredients in a way that brings out the best of each component. Let me walk you through everything you need to know to make this unforgettable meal with ease and confidence.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Lemon Herb Grilled Shrimp Recipe comes from how straightforward yet thoughtfully chosen the ingredients are. Each one adds a layer of flavor or texture that makes the shrimp pop, whether it’s the citrusy zing of fresh lemon, the aromatic herbs, or the subtle warmth of paprika.
- 2 pounds raw shrimp (peeled and deveined): Choose fresh or fully thawed shrimp for the best grilling texture and flavor.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil: This coats the shrimp to lock in moisture and helps the marinade cling beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice: Adds vibrant acidity that brightens every bite.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Brings a warm, earthy undertone that complements the lemon brilliantly.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Provides savory depth without overpowering the other flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the herbs and shrimp flavors uniformly.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness and gorgeous color to the shrimp.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Offers a gentle sweetness and complexity to the marinade.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: Tossed on top at the end for a fresh, green pop of flavor and color.
- Optional – lemon slices: Great for garnish and an extra splash of citrus just before serving.
How to Make Lemon Herb Grilled Shrimp Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Grill
Start by heating your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Getting it hot ensures a nice sear on the shrimp that locks in flavor and creates those beautiful grill marks.
Step 2: Dry and Ready the Shrimp
Patting the shrimp dry is a small but crucial step—it helps the marinade stick and avoids steaming the shrimp on the grill for that perfect charred texture.
Step 3: Mix the Marinade
Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, garlic powder, salt, paprika, and onion powder in a small bowl. This blend is where the magic begins—balancing bright citrus with smoky and savory notes.
Step 4: Marinate the Shrimp
Pour the marinade over the shrimp in a large bowl and toss until every piece is lightly coated. Letting it sit for 10 to 15 minutes lets the shrimp soak up all those gorgeous flavors without overpowering their natural sweetness.
Step 5: Skewer and Grill
Thread the shrimp onto skewers—either wooden (soaked to prevent burning) or metal. Grill for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until the shrimp turn pink and firm but still juicy. Don’t overcook or they’ll get tough!
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Remove the shrimp from the grill and place them on a serving platter. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and add an optional squeeze of lemon juice for that final burst of freshness.
Step 7: Enjoy Immediately
Lemon Herb Grilled Shrimp Recipe is best enjoyed hot off the grill while juicy and tender, delivering the ultimate combination of flavors and textures.
How to Serve Lemon Herb Grilled Shrimp Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds an eye-catching green vibrance and a fresh, mildly herbal note that rounds out the grilled shrimp beautifully. Thin lemon slices or wedges on the side invite everyone to add extra zing.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with light, fresh sides like a crisp garden salad, grilled vegetables, or fluffy couscous. For a Southern twist, serve alongside buttery garlic bread or creamy coleslaw to balance the lively lemon herb flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, pile the grilled shrimp over a bed of fragrant rice or quinoa and drizzle with a garlicky yogurt sauce. Or assemble a vibrant shrimp taco with fresh avocado, salsa, and lime crema for a party-friendly option that highlights the Lemon Herb Grilled Shrimp Recipe’s bright and bold flavors.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (which might be tough!), place cooled shrimp in an airtight container and refrigerate. They should be good for up to 2 days and make for a quick addition to salads or pasta dishes.
Freezing
While this recipe is best fresh, you can freeze cooked shrimp by laying them flat on a sheet tray until firm, then transferring to freezer bags. Use within 1 month for optimal flavor and texture, and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To keep shrimp tender, reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or briefly in the microwave. Avoid overheating to prevent rubbery texture. Adding a little splash of water or broth can help maintain moisture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to fully thaw and pat them dry before marinating to get the best grill results and even flavor absorption.
Should I use metal or wooden skewers?
Either works great. If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes beforehand to prevent burning on the grill.
How long should I marinate the shrimp?
About 10 to 15 minutes is ideal. Longer marinating can start to cook the shrimp from the acid in the lemon juice and may affect texture.
Can I make this recipe without a grill?
Yes! A grill pan or even a hot cast iron skillet on the stove will do the trick and give you that lovely sear and flavor.
What other herbs can I use besides oregano and parsley?
Fresh thyme, basil, or cilantro can also be fantastic substitutes, offering different flavor profiles to complement the lemon and garlic.
Final Thoughts
This Lemon Herb Grilled Shrimp Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like sunshine on a plate—bright, fresh, and packed with flavor without any fuss. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or a quiet dinner, it’s quick to prepare and irresistible to eat. So fire up that grill, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself to something delightfully delicious tonight!
Print
Lemon Herb Grilled Shrimp Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
Description
This Lemon Herb Grilled Shrimp recipe offers a quick and flavorful seafood dish perfect for summer cookouts or a light dinner. Marinated in a zesty blend of lemon juice, olive oil, and herbs, then grilled to tender perfection, these shrimp skewers are bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors and can be served immediately for a delicious meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 pounds raw shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Optional – lemon slices
Instructions
- Prepare the grill: Heat grill (or grill pan on stovetop) to medium high heat to ensure a perfect sear on the shrimp.
- Dry the shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry thoroughly with paper towels to help the marinade adhere better and prevent steaming when grilled.
- Make the marinade: In a small bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, garlic powder, kosher salt, paprika, and onion powder, mixing well to blend the flavors.
- Marinate the shrimp: Pour the marinade over the shrimp in a large bowl, tossing them to coat evenly. Let them rest for 10 to 15 minutes to absorb the flavors before threading them onto skewers.
- Skewer the shrimp: Thread the marinated shrimp onto wooden or metal skewers, spacing them slightly for even cooking.
- Grill the shrimp: Place the shrimp skewers on the hot grill and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, signaling they are fully cooked.
- Finish and serve: Remove the skewers from the grill, transfer them to a serving plate, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley, and optionally squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top before serving immediately.
Notes
- Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
- Do not overcook shrimp; they become rubbery if grilled too long.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a subtle heat.
- Serve with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
- Can be made gluten-free naturally by ensuring all spices are gluten-free.
