These grilled shrimp kebabs are juicy, flavorful, and oh-so-easy to make! Skewered with colorful veggies, they bring a burst of summer to your plate.
I love how quick they are to cook—just a few minutes on the grill and dinner is ready! Perfect for a sunny day or a backyard BBQ with friends. 🍤
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are perfect for these kebabs. You can use frozen shrimp; just ensure they’re thawed completely. If you’re looking for a plant-based option, try large cubes of firm tofu or tempeh as an alternative.
Bell Peppers: I used a mix of red, yellow, and green for color and flavor. Feel free to swap in zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or even mushrooms if you prefer! These add a different taste profile and keep it fun.
Olive Oil: While olive oil is great for flavor, you can substitute with avocado oil or vegetable oil if you want a higher smoke point. This is especially useful for grilling!
Spices: If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika will work. Cumin is optional but adds a warm hint. For a spicy kick, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes if you enjoy heat.
How Do I Grill Shrimp Perfectly Without Overcooking?
Grilling shrimp can be tricky, but with a couple of tips, you’ll master it! First, don’t over-marinade; 30 minutes is plenty. If you leave it longer, the acids can make shrimp mushy. Second, keep an eye on the timing.
- Preheat your grill for at least 10 minutes to get the perfect heat.
- Grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side. Look for them to turn pink and opaque. If they curl too tight, they might be overdone!
- Use a meat thermometer to check; shrimp should read 120°F for perfect doneness.
Happy grilling! Enjoy your flavorful kebabs with family and friends.
Grilled Shrimp Kebabs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1.5 pounds large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 green bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden, soak in water 30 minutes before grilling)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 15 minutes for prep, plus 30 minutes for marinating. You’ll also need about 8-10 minutes for grilling. Altogether, plan for around 1 hour. It’s a simple and quick way to enjoy a tasty summer meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, smoked paprika, dried oregano, ground cumin (if using), salt, and pepper. This mixture will be full of flavor for your shrimp and vegetables!
2. Marinate the Shrimp:
Add the shrimp to the bowl with the marinade and toss everything together, ensuring all the shrimp are evenly coated. Cover the bowl and let it sit in the fridge for 15 to 30 minutes. Just be careful not to marinate for over an hour, as the acid in the lemon juice can start to “cook” the shrimp.
3. Prepare the Grill and Skewers:
While the shrimp are marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using wooden skewers, don’t forget to soak them in water for about 30 minutes ahead of time. This prevents them from burning on the grill!
4. Assemble the Kebabs:
Once the shrimp are done marinating, it’s time to thread them onto the skewers. Alternate shrimp and chunks of bell peppers on the skewers, using about 5-6 shrimp per skewer depending on their size.
5. Grill the Kebabs:
Lightly oil the grill grates or brush the kebabs with a bit of olive oil to keep them from sticking. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side. Keep an eye on them; they’re done when the shrimp turn opaque and have nice grill marks!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the kebabs from the grill and transfer them to a serving plate. For a finishing touch, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top to add a pop of color and freshness. Serve them hot with lemon wedges or your favorite dipping sauce for added flavor!
Enjoy your vibrant, juicy grilled shrimp kebabs, bursting with smoky, herby flavor! Perfect for a summer evening or any occasion!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before marinating. The best way to do this is to leave them in the fridge overnight. If you’re short on time, you can quick-thaw them by placing them in a sealed plastic bag and submerging it in cold water for about 30 minutes.
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Skewers?
If you don’t have skewers, you can grill the shrimp and vegetables in a grilling basket instead. Just marinate them the same way and toss them in the basket before placing them on the grill. It works just as well and is easy to handle!
Can I Make the Marinade in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the marinade a day ahead! Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, toss the shrimp in the marinade before grilling. This will save you some prep time!
How Should I Store Leftover Kebabs?
Any leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat them gently in the microwave or on a skillet over low heat to enjoy again without drying them out. Enjoy!