Grilled shrimp skewers are an ideal meal for a summer evening or a BBQ party. The shrimp are marinated in a flavorful combination of garlic, lemon, and olive oil before being grilled to perfection. The smoky char from the grill adds depth to the shrimp, making them irresistible.

Ingredients:
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
3 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
Zest and juice of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Wooden skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes)

“Life is what happens when you’re busy making other plans.” — John Lennon

Instructions:
Marinate the Shrimp:

In a bowl, mix together olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add shrimp to the marinade and toss to coat. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Preheat the Grill:

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated shrimp onto the soaked wooden skewers.

Grill the Shrimp:

Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side, until they are opaque and cooked through.

Serve:

Serve the shrimp skewers with a side of rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: 210
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 5g
Fat: 9g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 600mg

Tips for Perfect Grilled Shrimp Skewers:

1. Don’t Overcrowd the Skewers: When threading the shrimp onto skewers, make sure they’re spaced out so they cook evenly. If the shrimp are too close together, they may not cook properly and could become soggy.
2. Grill on High Heat: For the best results, grill the shrimp on medium-high heat so they get a nice sear on the outside while remaining tender on the inside.
3. Test for Doneness: Shrimp cook quickly, usually in just 4-5 minutes. They’re done when they turn pink and opaque, and they should curl into a “C” shape. If they’re overcooked, they’ll become rubbery and dry.
4. Customize the Marinade: Feel free to get creative with the marinade. You can add fresh herbs like cilantro or basil, swap the lemon juice for lime, or use a different sweetener like maple syrup or agave.
5. Vegetable Skewers: For extra flavor and color, you can alternate shrimp with vegetables like red onion, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini on the skewers. The veggies will soak up some of the marinade, and grilling them adds great flavor.

Why You’ll Love These Grilled Shrimp Skewers:

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in less than 30 minutes, making it perfect for a quick dinner or last-minute get-togethers.
• Healthy and Lean: Shrimp are a low-calorie, high-protein food that’s great for those looking to eat healthy without compromising on flavor.
• Versatile: Whether served with rice, veggies, in tacos, or over a salad, these shrimp skewers can be paired with a wide variety of sides and dips.
• Full of Flavor: The combination of smoky grilled shrimp and zesty lemon, garlic, and spice makes each bite incredibly flavorful and satisfying.

Variations:

• Make It Spicy: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the marinade if you like a little extra heat.
• Coconut Shrimp Skewers: For a tropical twist, coat the shrimp in shredded coconut after marinating them, then grill as usual.
• Tropical Fruit Skewers: Add pineapple or mango to the skewers along with the shrimp for a sweet and savory combination.

These Grilled Shrimp Skewers are perfect for summer grilling, but they’re also great year-round. Their bold flavors and smoky char make them a versatile dish that’s easy to customize, making it ideal for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just preparing a simple dinner, this recipe is sure to impress!