Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp

I still remember the first time I made these Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp Skewers on a warm summer evening. The simple act of marinating juicy shrimp in a zesty lemon-garlic butter felt like discovering a new favorite that would forever brighten my weeknight dinners.

I vividly recall when unexpected guests arrived and this recipe saved the day, turning a simple shrimp dish into a celebration everyone couldn't stop talking about.

Ingredients

• Large shrimp: I always choose peeled and deveined shrimp with tails on for easy grilling and an elegant presentation
• Butter: Unsalted melted butter melds the flavors without overpowering the fresh ingredients
• Garlic and lemon: Fresh garlic and lemon juice bring the perfect zesty punch that defines this dish
• Spices & herbs: Smoked paprika adds a subtle depth while fresh parsley keeps things bright

Instructions

Mix it up:

Whisk melted butter, minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, chopped parsley, smoked paprika, salt and pepper in a large bowl until fragrant and well combined

Marinate the shrimp:

Toss the shrimp in the marinade coating each piece. Cover and chill for at least 15 minutes so the flavors soak in

Skewer time:

Thread shrimp carefully onto skewers, piercing by tail and head for secure hold

The sizzle moment:

Preheat your grill to medium-high and oil the grates lightly. Grill shrimp skewers 2 to 3 minutes per side until pink and opaque, smelling that garlicky citrus aroma in the air

Serve bright:

Transfer to a platter and garnish with extra lemon wedges and parsley to add a fresh pop right before digging in

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This dish soon became more than just food; it helped create memorable evenings filled with laughter and the warm glow of shared moments.

Keeping It Fresh

To keep these skewers tasting their best, always use the freshest shrimp you can find. If frozen, thaw thoroughly and pat dry before marinating to avoid watery skewers.

Serving Ideas That Clicked

Pair these shrimp skewers with fluffy rice or a crisp salad. The buttery marinade is perfect for soaking up with some crusty bread, turning this appetizer into a satisfying main course.

A Time This Recipe Saved the Day

One rainy evening when the power blinked at the last minute, I quickly transferred the shrimp to a grill pan on the stove. The flavors stayed intense and the meal felt just as special.

• Always have extra skewers soaked and ready
• Remember to oil the grill grates to prevent sticking
• Don't rush; the quick cook time means watching closely

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Thanks for spending time with this recipe—hope your kitchen fills with the same joyous aromas and memories as mine did sharing these shrimp skewers.

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ How long should shrimp marinate in the lemon-garlic butter?

Marinate the shrimp for 15 to 30 minutes to absorb flavors without becoming overpowered. Up to 1 hour intensifies the taste.

→ What is the best way to grill shrimp skewers evenly?

Preheat the grill to medium-high, lightly oil the grates, and cook skewers for 2-3 minutes per side until shrimp turn pink and opaque.

→ Can I add vegetables to the skewers?

Yes, sliced vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini complement the shrimp well and can be grilled alongside for a complete dish.

→ How do I prevent wooden skewers from burning on the grill?

Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to reduce the risk of burning.

→ What seasonings enhance the butter marinade?

Smoked paprika, fresh parsley, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper all enhance the marinade, adding layers of flavor and brightness.