Garlic Butter Shrimp Skewers are a delicious and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for grilling or broiling. The combination of succulent shrimp marinated in a rich garlic butter sauce makes for a flavorful appetizer or main course. These skewers are great for summer barbecues, weeknight dinners, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with minimal effort!
Ingredients List
For the Shrimp
- 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined, tails on)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
Timing
Preparing Garlic Butter Shrimp Skewers takes about 15 minutes for prep and 5-7 minutes for cooking, totaling approximately 20-22 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Skewers
- Soak Wooden Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill.
Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter Marinade
- Combine Ingredients: In a bowl, mix together the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, paprika, dried parsley, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Step 3: Marinate the Shrimp
- Marinate Shrimp: Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the marinade, tossing to coat evenly. Let them marinate for about 15 minutes.
Step 4: Assemble the Skewers
- Skewer the Shrimp: Thread the marinated shrimp onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each shrimp for even cooking.
Step 5: Cook the Skewers
- Preheat Grill or Oven: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat or your oven to broil.
- Grill or Broil: Place the skewers on the grill or a baking sheet if broiling. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning halfway through, until the shrimp are pink and opaque.
Step 6: Serve
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the skewers from the heat and garnish with additional fresh parsley and lemon wedges if desired. Serve immediately.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick glance at the nutritional profile of Garlic Butter Shrimp Skewers (per skewer, assuming 8 skewers):
| Nutrient | Amount per Skewer |
|---|---|
| Calories | 100 |
| Protein | 12g |
| Fat | 5g |
| Carbohydrates | 1g |
| Fiber | 0g |
Tips for Customization
- Add Vegetables: Include bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes on the skewers for added flavor and color.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the marinade for some heat.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or oregano for a unique flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Garlic Butter Shrimp Skewers pair well with:
- A side of rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce.
- A fresh green salad for a light and healthy meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Shrimp: Keep a close eye on the shrimp while cooking; they cook quickly and can become rubbery if overdone.
- Not Marinating Long Enough: Allowing the shrimp to marinate for at least 15 minutes enhances the flavor significantly.
- Using Too Much Heat: Cooking at too high a temperature can cause the butter to burn; medium-high heat is ideal.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Garlic Butter Shrimp Skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Conclusion
In just about 20-22 minutes, you can create Garlic Butter Shrimp Skewers, a flavorful and easy dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With their rich garlic butter flavor and simple preparation, these skewers are sure to be a hit at your next gathering!
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before marinating and cooking.
Can I grill these skewers indoors?
Absolutely! You can use a grill pan on the stovetop or broil them in the oven if grilling outdoors isn’t an option.
What can I serve with these shrimp skewers?
These skewers are great on their own but can also be served with rice, pasta, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Can I make the marinade ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the garlic butter marinade in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before using it.
Garlic Butter Shrimp Skewers Recipe
Ingredients
- For the Shrimp
- • 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined, tails on)
- • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- • 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- • 1 teaspoon paprika
- • 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped)
- • Salt and pepper to taste
- • Skewers (wooden or metal)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Skewers
If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill.
Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter Marinade
In a bowl, mix together the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, paprika, dried parsley, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Step 3: Marinate the Shrimp
Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the marinade, tossing to coat evenly. Let them marinate for about 15 minutes.
Step 4: Assemble the Skewers
Thread the marinated shrimp onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each shrimp for even cooking.
Step 5: Cook the Skewers
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat or your oven to broil.
Place the skewers on the grill or a baking sheet if broiling. Cook for about 5–7 minutes, turning halfway through, until the shrimp are pink and opaque.
Step 6: Serve
Remove the skewers from the heat and garnish with additional fresh parsley and lemon wedges if desired. Serve immediately.
