Garlic Butter Shrimp Skewers with Lemon and Parsley

Garlic Butter Shrimp Skewers with Lemon and Parsley are the perfect dish for a quick, flavorful weeknight dinner. These succulent shrimp are marinated in a rich garlic butter sauce, then grilled to perfection and garnished with fresh lemon and parsley. They’re not just delicious; they’re visually stunning and sure to impress anyone at your dinner table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish packs a punch of flavor while being incredibly simple to prepare. It’s ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Plus, the vibrant presentation makes it a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.

• Quick to prepare – Ready in under 30 minutes.
• Flavor-packed – Rich garlic butter and zesty lemon elevate the shrimp.
• Versatile – Perfect as a main dish or appetizer.
• Grill or stovetop – Cook it your way!
• Fresh ingredients – Simple, wholesome components that shine.

Ingredients

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 4-6 skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak in water for 30 minutes)

How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp Skewers

1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
2. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Let the mixture cool slightly.
3. In a large bowl, combine the shrimp and the garlic butter mixture. Toss well to coat the shrimp evenly. Marinate for 15 minutes for the best flavor.
4. While the shrimp is marinating, preheat your grill or stovetop grill pan to medium-high heat.
5. Thread the marinated shrimp onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each shrimp for even cooking.
6. Grill the skewers for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them.
7. Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

Tips for the Best Results

• Choose large, fresh shrimp for the best texture and flavor.
• Don’t marinate for too long; 15-30 minutes is ideal to prevent the shrimp from becoming mushy.
• Ensure your grill is preheated for a good sear and to prevent sticking.
• Use a meat thermometer to check that the shrimp reach an internal temperature of 145°F for safety.

Easy Variations

• Swap out shrimp for scallops or chunks of chicken for different proteins.
• Add veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes to the skewers for a colorful twist.
• Experiment with spices—try adding smoked paprika or cumin for a unique flavor profile.
• For a tropical flair, add pineapple chunks to the skewers.

What to Serve With It

• Serve over a bed of rice or quinoa to soak up the garlic butter sauce.
• Pair with a fresh green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette.
• Offer crusty bread for dipping in the leftover garlic butter sauce.
• Accompany with grilled vegetables for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover shrimp skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat on a skillet over low heat until warmed through, or enjoy cold in a salad. For best quality, it’s recommended to consume them fresh.

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