Gather your ingredients
Before you start making shrimp skewers, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients ready. You will need:
- Fresh or frozen shrimp
- Skewers (metal or wooden)
- Vegetables (such as bell peppers, onions, cherry tomatoes, and zucchini) – optional
- Olive oil
- Lemon juice
- Minced garlic
- Salt and pepper
- Your choice of herbs and spices
Having all your ingredients prepared and ready to go will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
Prepare the shrimp
If you’re using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them before cooking. You can do this by placing the shrimp in a colander and running cold water over them until they are completely defrosted.
Next, remove the shells and tails from the shrimp. You can leave the tails on for a more visually appealing presentation, but it’s easier to eat without them.
Once the shrimp are peeled, rinse them under cold water to remove any excess debris. Pat them dry with a paper towel and set them aside.
Marinate the shrimp
A good marinade can take your shrimp skewers to the next level. In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and any herbs or spices you prefer. You can experiment with different flavors like cajun seasoning, Italian herbs, or chili powder.
Add the shrimp to the marinade and toss to coat them evenly. Let the shrimp marinate for at least 15-30 minutes, or longer if you have the time. This will infuse the shrimp with delicious flavors and help keep them tender and juicy during the cooking process.
Prepare the skewers
If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This will prevent them from burning on the grill. If you prefer metal skewers, there’s no need to soak them.
Thread the marinated shrimp onto the skewers, leaving a small gap between each piece. If you’re including vegetables, you can alternate between shrimp and vegetables to create a colorful and flavorful skewer.
Make sure not to overcrowd the skewers, as this can prevent the shrimp from cooking evenly. Leave some space between each shrimp to ensure they cook properly.
Grill the skewers
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Brush the grates with oil to prevent the shrimp from sticking.
Place the shrimp skewers on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. If you’re including vegetables on the skewers, they may take slightly longer to cook.
Keep a close eye on the shrimp as they cook, as they can overcook quickly. You want them to be tender and juicy, not rubbery.
Once the shrimp are cooked to perfection, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice, if desired.
Now you’re ready to enjoy your delicious shrimp skewers!
