Lemon Herb Grilled Shrimp is a quick, flavor-packed dish that’s perfect for summer cookouts or a simple weeknight dinner. The fresh herbs and zesty lemon bring this dish to life, making it a delightful centerpiece for any meal.
Shrimp: The star of the show, large shrimp, peeled and deveined, are perfect for absorbing the marinade and cooking quickly on the grill.
Olive oil: Acts as the base of the marinade, helping to keep the shrimp moist and infuse the other flavors.
Lemon juice: Provides brightness and tanginess, essential for balancing the rich flavors of the shrimp.
Garlic: Adds a savory depth to the marinade that complements the shrimp beautifully.
Fresh parsley and dill: These herbs bring freshness and a hint of earthiness that pairs well with seafood.
Lemon zest: Intensifies the citrus flavor without adding more acidity.
Salt and pepper: Enhances the natural flavors, with black pepper adding a touch of heat.
Skewers: Keep the shrimp in place for even cooking on the grill.
Pair these shrimp with a light salad, like a cucumber and tomato salad, to complement the fresh flavors. They also go well with grilled vegetables or a simple rice pilaf to soak up the delicious juices.
First, grab a mixing bowl and pour in your olive oil and lemon juice. Add the minced garlic, parsley, dill, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Give everything a good mix until well combined. This marinade is what's going to make your shrimp sing.
Add the cleaned shrimp to the bowl, tossing them around to make sure they’re well-coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and pop it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This is where the magic happens, as the flavors start to infuse into the shrimp.
While the shrimp are marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This typically takes about 10-15 minutes, so it's a good time to get your skewers ready.
Once marinated, take the shrimp out and start threading them onto your skewers. Make sure they’re snug but not overcrowded, so they cook evenly.
Place the skewered shrimp on the grill. They only need about 2-3 minutes per side. You’ll know they’re done when they turn pink and opaque — overcooking will make them rubbery, so keep a close eye.
Remove them from the grill and serve immediately. Consider adding some fresh lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor.