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Juicy Garlic Grilled Shrimp Skewers with Vibrant Veggies

garlic grilled shrimp skewers - featured image

These juicy garlic grilled shrimp skewers with vibrant veggies are a quick, easy, and flavorful summer BBQ favorite. The garlic marinade locks in moisture, keeping shrimp tender and juicy while the grilled veggies add a smoky freshness.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 medium red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 medium zucchini, sliced into thick half-moons
  • 1 small red onion, cut into wedges
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes (optional, add last to avoid overcooking)
  • Wooden or metal skewers (soaked in water if wooden)
  • Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the marinade by whisking together minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes in a medium bowl.
  2. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the marinade, toss gently to coat, cover, and refrigerate for 15-20 minutes. Do not marinate longer than 30 minutes.
  3. While the shrimp marinates, chop bell pepper, zucchini, and red onion into bite-sized pieces. Toss lightly with a pinch of salt and a teaspoon of olive oil.
  4. Thread shrimp and veggies alternately onto skewers, leaving space between pieces for even heat circulation. Add cherry tomatoes last if using.
  5. Preheat grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F). Brush grill grates with oil to prevent sticking.
  6. Grill skewers for 2-3 minutes per side, turning carefully once. Shrimp should be opaque and firm with grill marks; veggies should be tender but not mushy. Total grill time: 6-8 minutes.
  7. Remove skewers from grill, sprinkle with fresh parsley or cilantro, and let rest for a couple of minutes before serving.

Notes

Do not marinate shrimp longer than 30 minutes to avoid rubbery texture. Use even-sized large shrimp for uniform cooking. Preheat grill properly and oil grates to prevent sticking. Flip skewers only once to keep shrimp and veggies intact. Let skewers rest after grilling to keep shrimp juicy. Cherry tomatoes should be added last to avoid bursting.

Nutrition

Keywords: shrimp skewers, grilled shrimp, garlic shrimp, summer BBQ, easy shrimp recipe, grilled veggies, seafood skewers