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
- 300 g (10 oz) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges, for serving
- 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
- Prepare the Marinade:
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- 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).
- 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.
- Assemble the Skewers:
- Thread 4–5 shrimp onto each skewer, ensuring even spacing.
- 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.
- 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.