Mediterranean Shrimp Skewers
These Mediterranean shrimp skewers are marinated with lemon, garlic, oregano, and smoked paprika, then grilled until juicy and lightly charred. They are quick to cook and work well as a main course or appetizer.
Ingredients
- 500 g large raw shrimp peeled and deveined
For the Marinade
- 3 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic finely minced
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- finely chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Place 500 g large raw shrimp in a large bowl. Add 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice, 3 cloves garlic , finely minced, ½ tsp salt, ¼ tsp black pepper, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1 tsp smoked paprika, and ¼ tsp red pepper flakes.
- Toss the shrimp until evenly coated, then cover and marinate in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
- Thread the shrimp onto soaked wooden skewers or metal skewers. Heat an outdoor grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Grill the shrimp for 1 to 1½ minutes per side, or until pink, opaque, and just cooked through. Transfer to a serving plate and finish with finely chopped fresh parsley.
Notes
Use Raw Large Shrimp: I always use raw shrimp rather than precooked shrimp because they stay much more tender once grilled. Choose shrimp of a similar size so they cook evenly.
Limit the Marinating Time: Thirty minutes gives the shrimp plenty of flavour. I do not leave them in the lemon marinade for several hours because the acid can begin to change their texture.
Soak Wooden Skewers: When I use wooden skewers, I soak them for at least 30 minutes. Metal skewers can be used immediately.
Watch the Shrimp Closely: Shrimp cook very quickly. I remove them once they turn pink and opaque with a loose C-shape, as tightly curled shrimp can become firm and rubbery.
Nutrition
Calories: 252kcal | Carbohydrates: 4g | Protein: 23g | Fat: 16g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 10g | Trans Fat: 0.01g | Cholesterol: 210mg | Sodium: 1335mg | Potassium: 235mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 0.3g | Vitamin A: 691IU | Vitamin C: 3mg | Calcium: 110mg | Iron: 1mg
