🦐 Lemon Garlic Shrimp Skewers
Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 6–8 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
🛒 Ingredients
For the shrimp:
- 1½ lb (680 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1½ tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp salt, or to taste
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes, optional
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
For serving:
- Lemon wedges
- Extra chopped parsley
- Optional: a little grated Parmesan
👩🍳 Instructions
- Prepare the shrimp
Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick and allows the shrimp to brown nicely. - Make the garlic-lemon marinade
In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. - Marinate
Add the shrimp and gently toss until completely coated. Let them sit for about 10–15 minutes in the refrigerator. Avoid a long marinade because the lemon juice can affect the shrimp’s texture. - Prepare the skewers
Thread the shrimp onto skewers. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water beforehand to reduce the chance of burning. - Grill
Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the shrimp for approximately 2–3 minutes per side, depending on their size.
They’re ready when they become opaque and curl into a loose C shape. Don’t overcook them—they can become rubbery.
- Finish
Remove from the heat and brush with any remaining cooked garlic-butter mixture. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges.
🍋 Easy Oven Method
Place the skewers on a lined baking sheet and bake at 425°F (220°C) for about 6–8 minutes, turning once halfway through if desired.
🥑 Keto Serving Ideas
Serve with:
- Cauliflower rice
- Garlic-butter broccoli
- Zucchini noodles
- Roasted asparagus
- Avocado salad
- Sautéed spinach
💡 Tips for the Best Shrimp
- Use large or jumbo shrimp so they stay juicy.
- Pat shrimp dry before seasoning.
- Fresh garlic and lemon give the best flavor.
- Don’t overcrowd the grill or pan.
- Cook just until opaque and firm.
- For a richer finish, add a small pat of butter and fresh lemon juice immediately after cooking.
Keto note: The shrimp themselves are naturally low in carbohydrates. This recipe is also low-carb as written; just check the labels of any seasoning blends you use for added sugar or starch.