Description
Juicy shrimp skewers marinated with garlic, lemon, olive oil, and smoked paprika. Cook them in the oven, on the grill, or in a smoker for a flavorful and protein-packed meal.
Ingredients
1 lb (450g) large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tbsp olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
Lemon wedges (for serving)
Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Bamboo or metal skewers
Instructions
- Prepare the shrimp and marinade:In a bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne (if using). Add shrimp and toss to coat. Marinate for 15–30 minutes in the fridge.
- Skewer the shrimp:If using bamboo skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes. Thread 4–5 shrimp onto each skewer, piercing through the tail and head for secure placement.
- Cook in the oven (variant 1):Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Place skewers on a baking sheet lined with foil. Bake for 7–8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until pink and opaque.
- Grill the skewers (variant 2):Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Oil the grates. Grill shrimp skewers 2–3 minutes per side until grill marks form and shrimp are fully cooked.
- Smoke the shrimp (variant 3):Preheat smoker to 225°F (107°C). Place skewers directly on the grate. Smoke for 30–40 minutes until shrimp are firm and smoky in flavor.
- Serve and garnish:Remove shrimp from heat, sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges. Great over rice, salads, or on their own.
Notes
You can use frozen shrimp—just thaw and pat dry before marinating. Adjust cayenne for spice level. Don’t overcook shrimp—they turn rubbery quickly. If using a smoker, fruit woods like apple or cherry add excellent flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilled, Baked, Smoked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 430mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 140mg