Garlic Herb Grilled Shrimp
Juicy, plump shrimp marinated in a vibrant mix of fresh garlic, herbs, and lemon juice, then grilled to perfection. A quick, healthy, and flavorful main dish perfect for summer cookouts or a light weeknight dinner.
For 4 servings
Prepare the marinade
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, chopped parsley, dried oregano, lemon juice, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
Marinate the shrimp
- Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the bowl with the marinade.
- Toss gently to ensure all the shrimp are evenly coated.
- Let the shrimp marinate for at least 15 minutes at room temperature. Do not marinate for more than 30 minutes, as the lemon juice can start to 'cook' the shrimp.
Skewer and grill the shrimp
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F or 200°C).
- Thread the marinated shrimp onto the soaked wooden skewers, about 4-5 shrimp per skewer.
- Place the skewers on the hot grill grates.
- Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are pink, opaque, and slightly charred.
- The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
Garnish and serve
- Remove the skewers from the grill and transfer to a platter.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Soak your wooden skewers in water for at least 20 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill.
- 2Don't over-marinate the shrimp. The acid in the lemon juice will change the texture of the shrimp if left for too long.
- 3Pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel before marinating to help the marinade adhere better.
- 4For even cooking, try to use shrimp that are all similar in size.
- 5If you don't have an outdoor grill, you can use a grill pan on the stovetop over medium-high heat.
- 6These shrimp are delicious served over a salad, with rice, or alongside grilled vegetables.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy
Increase the red pepper flakes to 1/2 teaspoon or add a finely minced jalapeño to the marinade for extra heat.
healthyHealthy
Serve the shrimp over a bed of quinoa and a large green salad with a light vinaigrette for a complete, low-calorie meal.
quickQuick
Skip the skewers and cook the shrimp in a hot skillet for 2-3 minutes per side for an even faster preparation.
dairy freeDairy free
This recipe is naturally dairy-free. Ensure no cross-contamination if serving with other dishes containing dairy.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Lean Protein
Shrimp provides high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle repair and building, while being low in fat and calories.
Rich in Selenium
A powerful antioxidant, selenium helps protect cells from damage and supports thyroid function.
Heart-Healthy Fats
The use of extra virgin olive oil contributes monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for cardiovascular health.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, it is very healthy. Shrimp is a great source of lean protein and low in calories. Grilling with olive oil and fresh herbs is a much healthier cooking method than frying.
