Grilled Lemon Garlic Shrimp Skewers: A Fresh & Healthy Protein Boost

Low-Calorie

This easy and flavorful shrimp recipe is packed with lean protein, healthy fats, and bold citrus flavors. Perfect for grilling, it’s a low-carb, gluten-free meal that pairs well with vegetables, salads, or a light dipping sauce.

  • Total Cooking Time: 15 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 5 minutes
  • Servings: 2

Ingredients

  1. 300 g (10 oz) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  2. 2 tbsp olive oil
  3. 2 tbsp lemon juice
  4. 2 cloves garlic, minced
  5. 1 tsp lemon zest
  6. ½ tsp smoked paprika
  7. ½ tsp salt
  8. ¼ tsp black pepper
  9. ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  10. 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  11. Lemon wedges, for serving
  12. Skewers (wooden or metal)

Optional Additions:

  • ½ tsp honey for a slightly sweet glaze
  • 1 tbsp butter for extra richness
  • Grilled vegetables (zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus)

Substitutions:

  • No grill? Cook shrimp in a skillet over medium-high heat for 2–3 minutes per side.
  • Dairy-free? Skip butter and use olive oil.
  • Extra flavor? Add cumin or cayenne for a smoky heat.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade:
    • In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
  2. Marinate the Shrimp:
    • Add shrimp to the marinade and toss to coat.
    • Cover and refrigerate for 10–15 minutes (avoid marinating longer to prevent mushy shrimp).
  3. Preheat the Grill:
    • If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 10 minutes to prevent burning.
    • Heat the grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
  4. Assemble the Skewers:
    • Thread 4–5 shrimp onto each skewer, ensuring even spacing.
  5. Grill the Shrimp:
    • Grill for 2–3 minutes per side until shrimp turn pink and slightly charred.
    • Optional: Brush with melted butter for extra flavor.
  6. Serve & Enjoy:
    • Remove from the grill and sprinkle with fresh parsley.
    • Serve with lemon wedges and a side of grilled vegetables or salad.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 230
  • Protein: 32 g
  • Fats: 12 g
  • Carbohydrates: 2 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Sugar: 0 g

Vitamins & Benefits

  • Shrimp: High in protein and low in calories.
  • Lemon: Rich in vitamin C for immune support.
  • Garlic: Contains antioxidants and supports heart health.

Did you know? Shrimp cook in just a few minutes, making them one of the fastest and easiest proteins to prepare for a healthy meal!

Storage Tips

  • Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
  • Reheating: Warm in a pan over low heat for 1–2 minutes (avoid overcooking).
  • Freezing: Not recommended after cooking, but raw marinated shrimp can be frozen for up to 2 months.

FAQ

Can I use frozen shrimp?
✔️ Yes! Just thaw completely and pat dry before marinating.

What can I serve with these shrimp skewers?
✔️ Try cauliflower rice, grilled asparagus, or a fresh Mediterranean salad.

How do I prevent shrimp from sticking to the grill?
✔️ Oil the grill grates and don’t move the shrimp too soon—flip when they naturally release.

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