Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp Skewers

Name: Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp Skewers
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 bell pepper, cut into squares (optional); 1 red onion, cut into squares (optional); Skewers (wooden or metal)

Highlighted under: Quick Healthy Recipes

I absolutely love making Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp Skewers during the warm months. The vibrant flavors of garlic, lemon, and fresh herbs create a delightful marinade that perfectly complements the tender shrimp. Each bite takes me straight to a sunny patio overlooking the sea. Plus, grilling adds that smoky char that enhances the dish dramatically. It's so quick and easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for a weeknight dinner or weekend gathering with friends. I can’t wait to share this recipe with you!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-29T23:19:28.171Z

As I prepared these Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp Skewers for the first time, I was amazed at how the simple marinade transformed my ordinary shrimp into extraordinary bites of flavor. I used a mix of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and fresh herbs, which not only added taste but also helped to keep the shrimp juicy. The key, I found, was not to overcook them and to let the shrimp soak in the marinade for at least 15 minutes.

The best part of this dish is how visually appealing it is when plated. The vibrant colors of the grilled shrimp paired with fresh veggies create a stunning presentation. I love serving these alongside a refreshing tzatziki sauce for dipping, which is easy to make and elevates the entire meal. This recipe won’t fail to impress your guests!

        Why You'll Love These Skewers
        Zesty marinade that enhances the shrimp's natural flavor
Quick preparation makes it perfect for busy weeknights
Grill marks that give a beautiful presentation
Healthy alternative packed with protein and fresh ingredients

      

Marinade Magic

The marinade for these Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp Skewers is the secret to achieving vibrant flavors. The combination of olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic not only tenderizes the shrimp but enhances their natural sweetness. Allowing the shrimp to marinate for at least 15 minutes, but not more than 30, ensures the flavors penetrate deeply without turning the shrimp too mushy. For an extra zing, you can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade.

Fresh herbs are essential in this recipe. Parsley and oregano bring a refreshing and aromatic quality that elevates the dish. If fresh herbs are hard to find, you can use dried herbs, but use only half the amount since they are more concentrated in flavor. Be mindful of the balance between the marinade's acid and oil; it should taste slightly tangy to cut through the richness of the shrimp.

Perfecting the Grill

Grilling shrimp requires careful attention to prevent overcooking, which can turn them rubbery. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 400°F (200°C). Skewers should be placed on the grill once it's hot enough to create those beautiful char marks. Flip the shrimp after about 3 to 4 minutes; look for an opaque color and firm texture, signaling they are done. If using wooden skewers, remember to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes beforehand to prevent burning.

If you're grilling a larger batch, consider using a grill basket or double-skewering the shrimp. This prevents delicate shrimp from falling between the grates and ensures they all cook evenly. For a slightly smoky flavor, you can add wood chips to the grill, enhancing the Mediterranean essence. Just a handful of soaked cedar chips can lend a wonderful aroma that complements the grilled shrimp perfectly.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for your Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp Skewers:

Ingredients

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
1 bell pepper, cut into squares (optional)
1 red onion, cut into squares (optional)
Skewers (wooden or metal)

Enjoy the freshness and flavor of this vibrant dish!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious skewers:

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, mix together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the shrimp and toss to coat evenly. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Skewer the Ingredients

Thread the marinated shrimp onto skewers, alternating with pieces of bell pepper and red onion if using.

Grill the Skewers

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until the shrimp are opaque and cooked through.

Serve and Enjoy

Remove from the grill and serve immediately with additional lemon wedges and your favorite dipping sauce.

Perfectly grilled and bursting with flavor!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before use to prevent burning on the grill. You can also add other vegetables like zucchini or cherry tomatoes to the skewers for a colorful twist.

Serving Suggestions

These Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp Skewers shine on their own, but pairing them with sides can elevate your meal. Consider serving them alongside a refreshing Greek salad, complete with cucumbers, tomatoes, feta, and olives. This bright and colorful dish not only complements the shrimp but also adds a wonderful crunch. For a heartier option, serve over a bed of couscous or quinoa infused with lemon zest and fresh herbs to mirror the flavors of the skewers.

For a fun dipping experience, whip up a tzatziki sauce using Greek yogurt, diced cucumbers, garlic, and fresh dill. This creamy dip cools off the heat of grilled shrimp and enhances the Mediterranean theme wonderfully. Additionally, warm pita bread on the grill adds a lovely touch, allowing guests to construct their own wraps with shrimp and veggies, creating a delicious and interactive dining experience.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

To make your weeknight cooking even easier, these skewers can be marinated a few hours in advance. Just cover the marinated shrimp in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 hours. However, avoid marinating overnight, as the acid in lemon juice can overpower the shrimp's delicate flavor and texture. Freshly grilled skewers taste best, but if you have leftovers, store them in the refrigerator for up to two days in an airtight container.

Reheating grilled shrimp can be tricky. To maintain the best texture, consider using a sauté pan over medium heat for a few minutes until warmed through. Microwaving can result in rubbery shells, so I recommend avoiding that method if possible. You can also enjoy leftover shrimp cold in salads or wraps for a delicious meal the following day!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before marinating.

→ How long can I marinate the shrimp?

You can marinate the shrimp for up to 30 minutes, but avoid longer as the acid in the marinade can toughen the shrimp.

→ What can I serve with the skewers?

These skewers pair well with a fresh salad, rice, or a side of tzatziki sauce for dipping.

→ Can I make these skewers in the oven?

Absolutely! You can bake them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-12 minutes.