Save to Pinterest These spiced shrimp skewers offer a delightful balance of smoky paprika, cumin, and coriander, enhanced by fresh garlic and lemon. After a brief marination, the shrimp are grilled until tender and lightly charred, releasing rich, savory flavors. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end adds a refreshing brightness, while optional parsley adds herbal notes. Quick to prepare and naturally gluten- and dairy-free, this dish suits easy, flavorful meals for seafood lovers looking for a fresh twist.
Standing at the grill with smoke curling around my face, I watched these spiced shrimp turn a gorgeous charred pink. My friend Sarah had brought over the freshest catch from the coastal market, and we decided to experiment with spices we'd never combined before. The way the smoked paprika hit the hot grill made the whole backyard smell incredible. Sometimes the simplest Friday night experiments become the recipes you keep forever.
Last summer I made these for my dad who insists he doesnt like spicy food. I skipped the cayenne but kept everything else, and he went back for thirds. The lemon at the end cuts through the spices perfectly, making each bite bright and fresh instead of heavy. Now whenever I fire up the grill, he asks if Im making those shrimp.
Ingredients
- Large shrimp: Get them already peeled and deveined to save yourself the messy work. Tails on look prettier but tails off are easier to eat.
- Olive oil: This helps the spices stick and keeps the shrimp from drying out on the grill.
- Smoked paprika: This is the secret ingredient that gives the shrimp that authentic grilled flavor.
- Ground cumin and coriander: These earthy spices pair beautifully together and remind me of beachside cookouts.
- Cayenne pepper: Skip this if you are sensitive to heat or double it if you love things spicy.
- Lemon juice and zest: Fresh is absolutely worth it here. Bottled juice just doesnt have that bright kick.
- Fresh parsley: Adds a pop of color and a fresh finish that makes the dish look restaurant quality.
Instructions
- Prep your skewers:
- Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 20 minutes so they dont catch fire on the grill. Metal skewers work great too and need no prep.
- Make the marinade:
- Whisk together olive oil, garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, coriander, cayenne, salt, pepper, lemon juice and lemon zest until well combined.
- Marinate the shrimp:
- Toss the shrimp in the marinade and let them sit for 10 to 15 minutes. Any longer and the acid starts to change the texture of the shrimp.
- Thread the skewers:
- Pierce each shrimp through both the head and tail end to form a C shape. This keeps them from spinning around when you flip them.
- Fire up the grill:
- Get your grill or grill pan nice and hot over medium high heat. You want to hear that satisfying sizzle immediately.
- Grill to perfection:
- Cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side until the shrimp turn opaque and get those gorgeous charred marks.
- Finish with flair:
- Squeeze fresh lemon over everything and sprinkle with parsley while they are still hot.
Save to Pinterest These skewers have become my go to for summer parties because people can just grab one and keep mingling. Last 4th of July my neighbor kept coming back to check if there were more coming off the grill. There is something about food on a stick that makes eating feel fun and casual.
Making Ahead
You can mix up the marinade in the morning and keep it in the fridge. Just wait to toss the shrimp until about 30 minutes before you plan to cook them. I have learned the hard way that marinating shrimp too long makes them mushy.
Grill vs Stove Top
A grill pan on the stove works surprisingly well if the weather is bad or you do not have outdoor space. You will get those same pretty grill marks without having to deal with wind or rain. The flavor is almost identical.
Serving Suggestions
I love serving these over fluffy rice with a simple cucumber salad on the side. The cool crisp cucumbers balance the warm spiced shrimp perfectly. Some other ideas that work great:
- Wrap them in warm pita bread with tzatziki sauce
- Serve over a bed of fresh mixed greens
- Pair with grilled zucchini and bell peppers
Save to Pinterest Hope these become a regular part of your summer rotation. Nothing beats food that brings people together around the grill.
Recipe FAQs
- → How long should the shrimp marinate?
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Marinate the shrimp for 10–15 minutes at room temperature for the best absorption of the spices and lemon flavors.
- → Can I use wooden skewers safely?
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Yes, soak wooden skewers in water for at least 20 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
- → What grilling temperature is recommended?
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Preheat the grill or grill pan to medium-high heat to ensure shrimp cook quickly and develop a nice char.
- → How can I adjust the heat level?
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Omit or reduce the cayenne pepper for a milder flavor, or add a pinch of chili flakes for extra kick.
- → What sides pair well with these skewers?
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Grilled vegetables or a light salad complement the shrimp nicely, balancing flavors and textures.
- → Can lemon be substituted?
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Lime can be used instead of lemon for a different citrus twist that still brightens the dish.
