Lemon Herb Grilled Shrimp

Grilled shrimp has always been a summer staple in our household, but it wasn’t until I stumbled upon this lemon herb marinade that our grilling game truly leveled up. Before, shrimp was just… shrimp. Good, yes, but nothing to write home about. Then, one sunny afternoon, craving something light and flavorful, I experimented with a vibrant mix of fresh lemon juice, fragrant herbs from my garden, and a touch of garlic. The result? Pure magic. The shrimp, infused with zesty lemon and aromatic herbs, was unbelievably tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor. Even my picky eaters, who usually turn their noses up at seafood, devoured every last skewer. This Lemon Herb Grilled Shrimp recipe has since become a family favorite, requested at every barbecue and summer gathering. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, cooks in minutes, and delivers a restaurant-quality taste right in your backyard. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll never grill shrimp the same way again!

Ingredients for Lemon Herb Grilled Shrimp

• Shrimp: 1.5 lbs large shrimp (21-25 count), peeled and deveined. Using large shrimp ensures they don’t overcook too quickly on the grill and remain juicy and plump. Peeled and deveined shrimp are essential for convenience and cleanliness, saving you preparation time and ensuring a pleasant eating experience. You can use fresh or frozen shrimp, just make sure to thaw frozen shrimp completely before marinating.
• Fresh Lemon Juice: ½ cup, from about 2-3 lemons. Freshly squeezed lemon juice is key to the bright, zesty flavor of this marinade. Bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch, but the fresh juice provides a much brighter and more vibrant taste that truly elevates the dish. The acidity of the lemon juice also helps to tenderize the shrimp and allows the herbs to penetrate deeply.
• Olive Oil: ¼ cup, extra virgin olive oil. Olive oil is the base of the marinade, adding richness and helping to distribute the flavors evenly. Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for its superior flavor and health benefits. It also prevents the shrimp from drying out on the grill and contributes to a beautiful, slightly caramelized exterior.
• Fresh Parsley: ¼ cup, chopped. Fresh parsley adds a bright, herbaceous note to the marinade. Its slightly peppery and clean flavor complements the lemon and garlic beautifully. Flat-leaf parsley (Italian parsley) is often preferred for its stronger flavor compared to curly parsley.
• Fresh Oregano: 2 tablespoons, chopped. Fresh oregano brings a warm, slightly peppery, and aromatic flavor to the marinade. It has a stronger flavor than parsley and adds a distinct Mediterranean touch. If fresh oregano is unavailable, you can substitute with dried oregano, but use about half the amount as dried herbs are more concentrated.
• Garlic: 3 cloves, minced. Garlic is a flavor powerhouse, adding a pungent and savory depth to the marinade. Minced garlic releases its aroma and flavor more effectively than sliced or whole cloves. Fresh garlic is always preferred for its robust flavor, but you can use pre-minced garlic from a jar for convenience if needed.
• Dried Thyme: 1 teaspoon. Dried thyme adds a subtle earthy and slightly minty flavor to the marinade. It complements the lemon and oregano, adding complexity to the herb profile. Dried thyme is used here for its convenience and readily available nature, but fresh thyme sprigs can also be used if you prefer a more pronounced thyme flavor.
• Salt: 1 teaspoon, or to taste. Salt enhances the flavors of all the other ingredients and is crucial for seasoning the shrimp. Adjust the amount of salt according to your preference and taste of the marinade before adding the shrimp.
• Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon, freshly ground, or to taste. Freshly ground black pepper adds a pungent and slightly spicy kick to the marinade. It complements the other flavors and balances the acidity of the lemon. Adjust the amount of pepper to your liking.
• Red Pepper Flakes (Optional): ¼ teaspoon, or to taste. Red pepper flakes add a touch of heat to the marinade, providing a subtle kick without being overpowering. This is optional but recommended if you enjoy a little spice in your grilled shrimp. Adjust the amount to your preference or omit it entirely if you prefer a milder flavor.

Instructions for Grilling Lemon Herb Shrimp

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the fresh lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, chopped fresh parsley, chopped fresh oregano, dried thyme, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Ensure all ingredients are well combined and the marinade is emulsified slightly. The whisking action helps to blend the oil and lemon juice together, creating a more cohesive and flavorful marinade.
2. Marinate the Shrimp: Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the bowl with the marinade. Toss to coat the shrimp evenly, ensuring each shrimp is generously covered in the flavorful mixture. Gently massage the marinade into the shrimp to help it penetrate.
3. Marinating Time: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the shrimp and marinade to a resealable plastic bag. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, and up to 1 hour. Do not marinate for longer than 1 hour, as the lemon juice can start to “cook” the shrimp and make it mushy. The optimal marinating time allows the flavors to infuse into the shrimp without compromising its texture.
4. Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375-450°F or 190-230°C). Ensure the grill grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent the shrimp from sticking. A hot grill is essential for searing the shrimp quickly and achieving those beautiful grill marks.
5. Thread onto Skewers (Optional but Recommended): For easier grilling and serving, thread the marinated shrimp onto skewers. You can use metal skewers or wooden skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes prior to grilling to prevent them from burning). Threading the shrimp onto skewers makes them easier to flip on the grill and prevents them from falling through the grates. It also makes for a more visually appealing presentation. Aim for about 4-5 shrimp per skewer for easy handling.
6. Grill the Shrimp: Place the shrimp skewers directly onto the preheated grill. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are pink, opaque, and slightly charred. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become rubbery. Shrimp cook very quickly, so keep a close eye on them. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
7. Serve Immediately: Once the shrimp are cooked through, remove them from the grill and serve immediately. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the grilled shrimp just before serving for an extra burst of flavor. Garnish with fresh parsley or oregano if desired. Grilled shrimp are best enjoyed hot off the grill when they are at their juiciest and most flavorful.

Lemon Herb Grilled Shrimp Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

(Based on 4 servings)

• Serving Size: Approximately 4-5 shrimp
• Calories: 220 kcal
• Protein: 25g

Note: Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. These values are based on using 1.5 lbs of shrimp for 4 servings and include the marinade, assuming minimal marinade is consumed. Shrimp is a lean protein source, low in carbohydrates, and provides essential nutrients. The olive oil contributes healthy fats, while the lemon and herbs offer vitamins and antioxidants. This recipe is a relatively healthy and delicious meal option.

Preparation Time for Lemon Herb Grilled Shrimp

• Prep Time: 20 minutes (This includes peeling and deveining shrimp, mincing garlic, chopping herbs, and making the marinade.) The active preparation time is minimal, making this recipe perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a relaxed weekend barbecue.
• Marinating Time: 30 minutes – 1 hour (This is passive time, allowing the flavors to infuse into the shrimp. You can use this time to prepare side dishes or relax while the shrimp marinates.) The marinating time is crucial for flavor development, but ensure not to exceed 1 hour to maintain the shrimp’s texture.
• Cook Time: 5-8 minutes (Grilling time depends on the size of the shrimp and the heat of your grill. Shrimp cook very quickly, so keep a close watch to prevent overcooking.) The quick cooking time makes this recipe ideal for busy weeknights and ensures the shrimp remain tender and juicy.
• Total Time: Approximately 55 minutes – 1 hour 30 minutes (From start to finish, including preparation, marinating, and cooking, this recipe is relatively quick and easy, especially considering the flavorful results.) This total time is an estimate and can vary slightly depending on your pace and grilling setup.

How to Serve Lemon Herb Grilled Shrimp

This versatile Lemon Herb Grilled Shrimp can be served in countless delicious ways. Here are some ideas to inspire you:

• As an Appetizer:
  • Skewers with Dipping Sauce: Serve the grilled shrimp skewers as a standalone appetizer with a side of creamy lemon aioli, spicy sriracha mayo, or a refreshing cucumber-dill dip.
  • Shrimp Cocktail Style: Arrange the grilled shrimp on a platter with lemon wedges and a classic cocktail sauce for a sophisticated and crowd-pleasing appetizer.
  • Bruschetta Topping: Chop the grilled shrimp and top toasted baguette slices with a mixture of diced tomatoes, basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a flavorful bruschetta appetizer.
• As a Main Course:
  • Over Pasta: Toss the grilled shrimp with your favorite pasta, such as linguine or spaghetti, and a light lemon garlic sauce or pesto. Add some cherry tomatoes and spinach for a complete meal.
  • With Rice or Quinoa: Serve the grilled shrimp over a bed of fluffy rice, quinoa, or couscous. Pair it with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced and healthy dinner.
  • In Tacos or Wraps: Use the grilled shrimp as a filling for tacos or wraps. Add shredded cabbage, avocado, salsa, and a squeeze of lime for a flavorful and customizable meal.
  • On a Salad: Top a fresh garden salad with the grilled shrimp for a protein-packed and light meal. Consider a Mediterranean-style salad with mixed greens, olives, feta cheese, and a lemon vinaigrette.
  • Alongside Grilled Vegetables: Create a complete grilled meal by serving the shrimp with grilled vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, asparagus, or corn on the cob. The smoky flavors of the grilled vegetables complement the shrimp beautifully.
  • In Shrimp Bowls: Create customizable shrimp bowls with a base of rice or quinoa, topped with grilled shrimp, your choice of roasted or fresh vegetables, and a flavorful sauce like teriyaki, peanut sauce, or a lemon-herb vinaigrette.
• Side Dish Suggestions:
  • Grilled Vegetables: Asparagus, zucchini, bell peppers, corn on the cob, eggplant.
  • Salads: Caprese salad, Greek salad, Caesar salad, quinoa salad, pasta salad.
  • Grains: Rice pilaf, couscous, quinoa, roasted potatoes.
  • Bread: Crusty bread, garlic bread, pita bread.

Additional Tips for Perfect Lemon Herb Grilled Shrimp

1. Don’t Over-Marinate: While marinating enhances flavor, marinating shrimp for too long in lemon juice can actually toughen the texture. Stick to the recommended marinating time of 30 minutes to 1 hour for optimal results. The acid in lemon juice starts to “cook” the shrimp if left for too long.
2. Pat the Shrimp Dry Before Grilling: Before placing the marinated shrimp on the grill, gently pat them dry with paper towels. This helps to remove excess moisture and allows the shrimp to sear properly, resulting in beautiful grill marks and a slightly caramelized exterior. Excess moisture can lead to steaming instead of grilling.
3. Preheat the Grill Properly: Ensure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat before grilling the shrimp. A hot grill is essential for searing the shrimp quickly and preventing them from sticking to the grates. This also helps to achieve those desirable grill marks.
4. Oil the Grill Grates: Lightly oil the grill grates before placing the shrimp on them. This prevents the shrimp from sticking and tearing, making them easier to flip and remove from the grill. You can use cooking oil spray or brush the grates with oil using a heat-resistant brush.
5. Don’t Overcrowd the Grill: Grill the shrimp in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the grill grates. Overcrowding can lower the grill temperature and cause the shrimp to steam instead of grill, resulting in uneven cooking and less flavorful shrimp. Give each shrimp skewer some space for even cooking.
6. Use Skewers for Easier Handling: Threading the shrimp onto skewers makes grilling and flipping much easier, especially for smaller shrimp. It also prevents them from falling through the grill grates and allows for more even cooking. Skewers also make for a nice presentation.
7. Watch the Shrimp Closely: Shrimp cook very quickly, so keep a close eye on them while grilling. They are done when they turn pink, opaque, and slightly charred, typically within 2-3 minutes per side. Overcooked shrimp become rubbery and dry, so it’s crucial to remove them from the grill as soon as they are cooked through.
8. Add a Final Touch of Freshness: Just before serving, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the grilled shrimp for an extra burst of brightness and flavor. You can also garnish with fresh chopped parsley or oregano for added visual appeal and aroma. This final touch elevates the dish and enhances the fresh, vibrant flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Lemon Herb Grilled Shrimp

Q1: Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can definitely use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely before marinating. The best way to thaw frozen shrimp is to place them in a bowl of cold water for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are fully thawed. You can also thaw them overnight in the refrigerator. Ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before marinating for the best results.

Q2: Can I marinate the shrimp for longer than 1 hour?
A: It’s not recommended to marinate the shrimp for longer than 1 hour in this lemon-based marinade. The acidity of the lemon juice can start to break down the shrimp protein and make it mushy if marinated for too long. For the best texture, stick to the recommended marinating time of 30 minutes to 1 hour. If you want to prepare ahead of time, you can make the marinade in advance and store it in the refrigerator, then add the shrimp to marinate closer to grilling time.

Q3: What if I don’t have fresh herbs? Can I use dried herbs instead?
A: While fresh herbs are highly recommended for the best flavor, you can substitute with dried herbs if fresh herbs are not available. For the best substitution, use about 1 teaspoon of dried parsley and 1 teaspoon of dried oregano in place of the fresh amounts. Remember that dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor, so you need to use less. Fresh herbs will always provide a brighter and more vibrant flavor, but dried herbs can work in a pinch.

Q4: Can I grill the shrimp without skewers?
A: Yes, you can grill the shrimp directly on the grill grates without skewers. However, using skewers is highly recommended, especially for smaller shrimp, as it makes them much easier to handle, flip, and prevent them from falling through the grates. If grilling directly on the grates, be extra careful when flipping them and make sure the grates are well-oiled to prevent sticking.

Q5: What temperature should the grill be for grilling shrimp?
A: The ideal grill temperature for grilling shrimp is medium-high heat, around 375-450°F (190-230°C). This temperature allows the shrimp to sear quickly, develop grill marks, and cook through without drying out. If your grill has temperature settings, aim for medium-high. If not, you can judge the heat by holding your hand a few inches above the grates – you should be able to hold it there for about 3-4 seconds.

Q6: How do I know when the grilled shrimp is cooked through?
A: Grilled shrimp cook very quickly. They are done when they turn pink and opaque throughout, and the flesh is no longer translucent. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C). The cooking time is typically about 2-3 minutes per side, depending on the size of the shrimp and the heat of your grill. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become rubbery.

Q7: Can I bake or pan-sear these lemon herb shrimp instead of grilling?
A: Yes, you can definitely bake or pan-sear these shrimp if you don’t have a grill or the weather isn’t cooperating. To bake, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the marinated shrimp on a baking sheet for about 8-10 minutes, or until cooked through. To pan-sear, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. While grilling provides a smoky flavor, baking and pan-searing are great alternatives for indoor cooking.

Q8: Can I make the marinade ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can absolutely make the lemon herb marinade ahead of time. In fact, making it a few hours in advance or even the day before allows the flavors to meld together even more beautifully. Store the marinade in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you are ready to cook, simply add the shrimp to the marinade and continue with the recipe instructions. This is a great time-saving tip for meal prepping.

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