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Lemon Herb Grilled Shrimp Flavorful and Easy Recipe

by on October 27, 2025

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If you’re looking for a quick, tasty dish, try my Lemon Herb Grilled Shrimp recipe! This meal bursts with flavor and takes just minutes to prepare. I’ll guide you through every step, from picking the right ingredients to grilling like a pro. Perfect for busy weeknights or summer cookouts, this recipe will impress your friends and family. Let’s dive in and make something delicious together!

- 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined) - 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil - 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice - 1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest - 3 cloves garlic (minced) - 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped) - 1 tablespoon fresh basil (chopped) - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste) - Lemon wedges (for serving) If you run out of fresh herbs, use dried ones. Dried herbs are strong, so use less. You can swap fresh parsley with cilantro for a different taste. If you don’t have basil, try using thyme or dill. For the olive oil, any oil will work, but olive gives the best flavor. You can also replace shrimp with chicken or tofu if you want a twist. The secret to this dish is in the seasonings. Lemon juice adds brightness, while lemon zest gives a punch of flavor. Garlic brings a savory note that enhances the shrimp. Fresh herbs like parsley and basil lift the dish with freshness. Dried oregano rounds out the flavors well. Don’t forget salt and pepper; they balance the dish and make it pop. {{ingredient_image_2}} To start, gather your ingredients in a large mixing bowl. You need: - 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil - 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice - 1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest - 3 cloves garlic (minced) - 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped) - 1 tablespoon fresh basil (chopped) - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste) Add the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, and minced garlic to the bowl. Mix these ingredients well. Then, add the chopped parsley, chopped basil, and dried oregano. Season with salt and pepper. Whisk until everything is blended. This marinade smells bright and fresh. Now, it’s time to add the shrimp. Use one pound of large shrimp that are peeled and deveined. Place the shrimp into the bowl with the marinade. With a spatula, gently toss the shrimp. Make sure each piece is well coated in the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap. Put it in the fridge for about 30 minutes. This time allows the shrimp to soak up the flavors. While the shrimp is marinating, prepare your grill. Preheat it to medium-high heat. If you're using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 15 minutes. This step helps prevent burning. After marinating, thread the shrimp onto the skewers. Place 4-5 shrimp on each skewer. Keep them close together for even cooking. Once your grill is hot, carefully place the skewers on it. Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side. The shrimp should turn opaque and have nice grill marks. Avoid overcrowding the grill. After grilling, remove the skewers. Let them rest for about a minute. For added flavor, garnish with fresh herbs. Serve with lemon wedges for a zesty touch. Grilling shrimp takes skill. Start with a medium-high heat. This gives you a nice sear and keeps the shrimp juicy. If the grill is too hot, the shrimp can cook too fast and dry out. Use a grill thermometer for best results. Aim for about 400°F (200°C). To get tender shrimp, don’t overcook them. They only need about 2-3 minutes on each side. Shrimp cook quickly, so watch them closely. They turn a bright pink when done. If they are rubbery, they are overcooked. Marinating also helps make shrimp tender. The lemon juice breaks down tough fibers. One common mistake is overcrowding the grill. This can lead to uneven cooking. Make sure to space the skewers apart. Another mistake is not soaking wooden skewers. Soak them for 15 minutes before use to prevent burning. Finally, always let the shrimp rest for a minute after grilling. This helps keep them juicy and flavorful. Pro Tips Marinate for Maximum Flavor: Allowing the shrimp to marinate for at least 30 minutes enhances the flavor, but don’t exceed 1 hour as the acid in the lemon juice can begin to cook the shrimp. Skewer Safety: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 15 minutes prior to grilling to prevent them from burning. Even Cooking: When threading the shrimp onto skewers, make sure they are close together but not tightly packed to ensure even cooking on the grill. Check for Doneness: Shrimp are cooked when they turn opaque and form a 'C' shape. Remove from the grill as soon as they are cooked to avoid overcooking. {{image_4}} You can switch up the marinade with different flavors. Try using lime juice instead of lemon juice for a twist. You can also add a splash of soy sauce for a savory kick. For a spicy touch, mix in some crushed red pepper flakes. If you want a sweet note, add a bit of honey or brown sugar. Each change gives the shrimp a new taste. Grilling is just one way to cook shrimp. You can also bake them at 400°F for 10-12 minutes. If you want a quicker method, pan-sear them in a hot skillet for about 2-3 minutes per side. If you like a smoky flavor, try using a stovetop grill pan. Each method brings out a different texture and taste. When serving your lemon herb grilled shrimp, think about color and texture. Arrange the shrimp skewers on a bright platter. Add fresh salad or grilled veggies for a full meal. You can also serve the shrimp with rice or quinoa for a hearty option. For a refreshing finish, squeeze fresh lemon juice on top just before serving. After enjoying your lemon herb grilled shrimp, you may have some leftovers. To store them, let the shrimp cool down to room temperature. Then, place them in an airtight container. You can keep them in the fridge for up to three days. This way, they stay fresh and tasty for your next meal. When you want to enjoy the leftovers, reheating is simple. You can use a skillet on medium heat. Just add a little olive oil to the pan. Place the shrimp in the skillet and heat for about 2-3 minutes. Stir gently to avoid overcooking. You can also use a microwave. Heat them for about 30 seconds. Check if they are warm enough and heat more if needed. If you want to save shrimp for later, freezing is a great option. First, make sure the shrimp are completely cooled. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing. They can last in the freezer for up to three months. To use them, simply thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. This keeps them juicy and flavorful. You should marinate the shrimp for about 30 minutes. This time allows the shrimp to soak up all the flavors. If you marinate them too long, the acid in the lemon juice can change the shrimp's texture. Keep an eye on that! Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them first. Place the frozen shrimp in the fridge overnight or run them under cold water for a quick thaw. Pat them dry before marinating to help the flavors stick better. Lemon herb grilled shrimp pairs well with many sides. Here are some great options: - A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette - Grilled vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers - Garlic bread for a tasty bite - Rice or quinoa for a filling meal - Pasta with olive oil and herbs for a hearty side Feel free to mix and match these ideas to create your perfect meal! In this article, we covered the key ingredients for lemon herb grilled shrimp. We went through how to prepare your marinade, marinate the shrimp, and grill them perfectly. I shared tips to help you get tender shrimp and avoid mistakes. You also learned storage options for leftovers and variations to keep your meals fresh. Remember, the right ingredients and techniques make all the difference. Enjoy your cooking!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Fresh and Zesty Flavor: The combination of lemon juice, zest, and fresh herbs creates a bright and refreshing taste that elevates the shrimp beautifully.
  2. Quick and Easy: This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue, taking just 40 minutes from start to finish.
  3. Healthy and Light: Grilled shrimp is a low-calorie, high-protein dish that is both satisfying and nutritious.
  4. Perfectly Grilled: The grilling process gives the shrimp a delightful char and enhances the overall flavor and texture.

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

– 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined)

– 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice

– 1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest

– 3 cloves garlic (minced)

– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped)

– 1 tablespoon fresh basil (chopped)

– 1 teaspoon dried oregano

– Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

– Lemon wedges (for serving)

Ingredient Substitutions

If you run out of fresh herbs, use dried ones. Dried herbs are strong, so use less. You can swap fresh parsley with cilantro for a different taste. If you don’t have basil, try using thyme or dill. For the olive oil, any oil will work, but olive gives the best flavor. You can also replace shrimp with chicken or tofu if you want a twist.

Essential Seasonings

The secret to this dish is in the seasonings. Lemon juice adds brightness, while lemon zest gives a punch of flavor. Garlic brings a savory note that enhances the shrimp. Fresh herbs like parsley and basil lift the dish with freshness. Dried oregano rounds out the flavors well. Don’t forget salt and pepper; they balance the dish and make it pop.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Marinade

To start, gather your ingredients in a large mixing bowl. You need:

– 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice

– 1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest

– 3 cloves garlic (minced)

– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped)

– 1 tablespoon fresh basil (chopped)

– 1 teaspoon dried oregano

– Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

Add the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, and minced garlic to the bowl. Mix these ingredients well. Then, add the chopped parsley, chopped basil, and dried oregano. Season with salt and pepper. Whisk until everything is blended. This marinade smells bright and fresh.

Marinating the Shrimp

Now, it’s time to add the shrimp. Use one pound of large shrimp that are peeled and deveined. Place the shrimp into the bowl with the marinade. With a spatula, gently toss the shrimp. Make sure each piece is well coated in the marinade.

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap. Put it in the fridge for about 30 minutes. This time allows the shrimp to soak up the flavors.

Grilling the Shrimp

While the shrimp is marinating, prepare your grill. Preheat it to medium-high heat. If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 15 minutes. This step helps prevent burning.

After marinating, thread the shrimp onto the skewers. Place 4-5 shrimp on each skewer. Keep them close together for even cooking.

Once your grill is hot, carefully place the skewers on it. Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side. The shrimp should turn opaque and have nice grill marks. Avoid overcrowding the grill.

After grilling, remove the skewers. Let them rest for about a minute. For added flavor, garnish with fresh herbs. Serve with lemon wedges for a zesty touch.

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting the Grill Temperature

Grilling shrimp takes skill. Start with a medium-high heat. This gives you a nice sear and keeps the shrimp juicy. If the grill is too hot, the shrimp can cook too fast and dry out. Use a grill thermometer for best results. Aim for about 400°F (200°C).

Achieving Tender Shrimp

To get tender shrimp, don’t overcook them. They only need about 2-3 minutes on each side. Shrimp cook quickly, so watch them closely. They turn a bright pink when done. If they are rubbery, they are overcooked. Marinating also helps make shrimp tender. The lemon juice breaks down tough fibers.

Avoiding Common Mistakes

One common mistake is overcrowding the grill. This can lead to uneven cooking. Make sure to space the skewers apart. Another mistake is not soaking wooden skewers. Soak them for 15 minutes before use to prevent burning. Finally, always let the shrimp rest for a minute after grilling. This helps keep them juicy and flavorful.

Pro Tips

  1. Marinate for Maximum Flavor: Allowing the shrimp to marinate for at least 30 minutes enhances the flavor, but don’t exceed 1 hour as the acid in the lemon juice can begin to cook the shrimp.
  2. Skewer Safety: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 15 minutes prior to grilling to prevent them from burning.
  3. Even Cooking: When threading the shrimp onto skewers, make sure they are close together but not tightly packed to ensure even cooking on the grill.
  4. Check for Doneness: Shrimp are cooked when they turn opaque and form a ‘C’ shape. Remove from the grill as soon as they are cooked to avoid overcooking.

Variations

Alternative Marinade Ingredients

You can switch up the marinade with different flavors. Try using lime juice instead of lemon juice for a twist. You can also add a splash of soy sauce for a savory kick. For a spicy touch, mix in some crushed red pepper flakes. If you want a sweet note, add a bit of honey or brown sugar. Each change gives the shrimp a new taste.

Different Cooking Methods

Grilling is just one way to cook shrimp. You can also bake them at 400°F for 10-12 minutes. If you want a quicker method, pan-sear them in a hot skillet for about 2-3 minutes per side. If you like a smoky flavor, try using a stovetop grill pan. Each method brings out a different texture and taste.

Serving Suggestions

When serving your lemon herb grilled shrimp, think about color and texture. Arrange the shrimp skewers on a bright platter. Add fresh salad or grilled veggies for a full meal. You can also serve the shrimp with rice or quinoa for a hearty option. For a refreshing finish, squeeze fresh lemon juice on top just before serving.

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your lemon herb grilled shrimp, you may have some leftovers. To store them, let the shrimp cool down to room temperature. Then, place them in an airtight container. You can keep them in the fridge for up to three days. This way, they stay fresh and tasty for your next meal.

Reheating Grilled Shrimp

When you want to enjoy the leftovers, reheating is simple. You can use a skillet on medium heat. Just add a little olive oil to the pan. Place the shrimp in the skillet and heat for about 2-3 minutes. Stir gently to avoid overcooking. You can also use a microwave. Heat them for about 30 seconds. Check if they are warm enough and heat more if needed.

Freezing for Future Meals

If you want to save shrimp for later, freezing is a great option. First, make sure the shrimp are completely cooled. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing. They can last in the freezer for up to three months. To use them, simply thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. This keeps them juicy and flavorful.

FAQs

How long should I marinate shrimp?

You should marinate the shrimp for about 30 minutes. This time allows the shrimp to soak up all the flavors. If you marinate them too long, the acid in the lemon juice can change the shrimp’s texture. Keep an eye on that!

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them first. Place the frozen shrimp in the fridge overnight or run them under cold water for a quick thaw. Pat them dry before marinating to help the flavors stick better.

What side dishes go well with lemon herb grilled shrimp?

Lemon herb grilled shrimp pairs well with many sides. Here are some great options:

– A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette

– Grilled vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers

– Garlic bread for a tasty bite

– Rice or quinoa for a filling meal

– Pasta with olive oil and herbs for a hearty side

Feel free to mix and match these ideas to create your perfect meal!

In this article, we covered the key ingredients for lemon herb grilled shrimp. We went through how to prepare your marinade, marinate the shrimp, and grill them perfectly.

I shared tips to help you get tender shrimp and avoid mistakes. You also learned storage options for leftovers and variations to keep your meals fresh.

Remember, the right ingredients and techniques make all the difference. Enjoy your cookin

- 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined) - 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil - 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice - 1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest - 3 cloves garlic (minced) - 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped) - 1 tablespoon fresh basil (chopped) - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste) - Lemon wedges (for serving) If you run out of fresh herbs, use dried ones. Dried herbs are strong, so use less. You can swap fresh parsley with cilantro for a different taste. If you don’t have basil, try using thyme or dill. For the olive oil, any oil will work, but olive gives the best flavor. You can also replace shrimp with chicken or tofu if you want a twist. The secret to this dish is in the seasonings. Lemon juice adds brightness, while lemon zest gives a punch of flavor. Garlic brings a savory note that enhances the shrimp. Fresh herbs like parsley and basil lift the dish with freshness. Dried oregano rounds out the flavors well. Don’t forget salt and pepper; they balance the dish and make it pop. {{ingredient_image_2}} To start, gather your ingredients in a large mixing bowl. You need: - 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil - 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice - 1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest - 3 cloves garlic (minced) - 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped) - 1 tablespoon fresh basil (chopped) - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste) Add the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, and minced garlic to the bowl. Mix these ingredients well. Then, add the chopped parsley, chopped basil, and dried oregano. Season with salt and pepper. Whisk until everything is blended. This marinade smells bright and fresh. Now, it’s time to add the shrimp. Use one pound of large shrimp that are peeled and deveined. Place the shrimp into the bowl with the marinade. With a spatula, gently toss the shrimp. Make sure each piece is well coated in the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap. Put it in the fridge for about 30 minutes. This time allows the shrimp to soak up the flavors. While the shrimp is marinating, prepare your grill. Preheat it to medium-high heat. If you're using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 15 minutes. This step helps prevent burning. After marinating, thread the shrimp onto the skewers. Place 4-5 shrimp on each skewer. Keep them close together for even cooking. Once your grill is hot, carefully place the skewers on it. Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side. The shrimp should turn opaque and have nice grill marks. Avoid overcrowding the grill. After grilling, remove the skewers. Let them rest for about a minute. For added flavor, garnish with fresh herbs. Serve with lemon wedges for a zesty touch. Grilling shrimp takes skill. Start with a medium-high heat. This gives you a nice sear and keeps the shrimp juicy. If the grill is too hot, the shrimp can cook too fast and dry out. Use a grill thermometer for best results. Aim for about 400°F (200°C). To get tender shrimp, don’t overcook them. They only need about 2-3 minutes on each side. Shrimp cook quickly, so watch them closely. They turn a bright pink when done. If they are rubbery, they are overcooked. Marinating also helps make shrimp tender. The lemon juice breaks down tough fibers. One common mistake is overcrowding the grill. This can lead to uneven cooking. Make sure to space the skewers apart. Another mistake is not soaking wooden skewers. Soak them for 15 minutes before use to prevent burning. Finally, always let the shrimp rest for a minute after grilling. This helps keep them juicy and flavorful. Pro Tips Marinate for Maximum Flavor: Allowing the shrimp to marinate for at least 30 minutes enhances the flavor, but don’t exceed 1 hour as the acid in the lemon juice can begin to cook the shrimp. Skewer Safety: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 15 minutes prior to grilling to prevent them from burning. Even Cooking: When threading the shrimp onto skewers, make sure they are close together but not tightly packed to ensure even cooking on the grill. Check for Doneness: Shrimp are cooked when they turn opaque and form a 'C' shape. Remove from the grill as soon as they are cooked to avoid overcooking. {{image_4}} You can switch up the marinade with different flavors. Try using lime juice instead of lemon juice for a twist. You can also add a splash of soy sauce for a savory kick. For a spicy touch, mix in some crushed red pepper flakes. If you want a sweet note, add a bit of honey or brown sugar. Each change gives the shrimp a new taste. Grilling is just one way to cook shrimp. You can also bake them at 400°F for 10-12 minutes. If you want a quicker method, pan-sear them in a hot skillet for about 2-3 minutes per side. If you like a smoky flavor, try using a stovetop grill pan. Each method brings out a different texture and taste. When serving your lemon herb grilled shrimp, think about color and texture. Arrange the shrimp skewers on a bright platter. Add fresh salad or grilled veggies for a full meal. You can also serve the shrimp with rice or quinoa for a hearty option. For a refreshing finish, squeeze fresh lemon juice on top just before serving. After enjoying your lemon herb grilled shrimp, you may have some leftovers. To store them, let the shrimp cool down to room temperature. Then, place them in an airtight container. You can keep them in the fridge for up to three days. This way, they stay fresh and tasty for your next meal. When you want to enjoy the leftovers, reheating is simple. You can use a skillet on medium heat. Just add a little olive oil to the pan. Place the shrimp in the skillet and heat for about 2-3 minutes. Stir gently to avoid overcooking. You can also use a microwave. Heat them for about 30 seconds. Check if they are warm enough and heat more if needed. If you want to save shrimp for later, freezing is a great option. First, make sure the shrimp are completely cooled. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing. They can last in the freezer for up to three months. To use them, simply thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. This keeps them juicy and flavorful. You should marinate the shrimp for about 30 minutes. This time allows the shrimp to soak up all the flavors. If you marinate them too long, the acid in the lemon juice can change the shrimp's texture. Keep an eye on that! Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them first. Place the frozen shrimp in the fridge overnight or run them under cold water for a quick thaw. Pat them dry before marinating to help the flavors stick better. Lemon herb grilled shrimp pairs well with many sides. Here are some great options: - A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette - Grilled vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers - Garlic bread for a tasty bite - Rice or quinoa for a filling meal - Pasta with olive oil and herbs for a hearty side Feel free to mix and match these ideas to create your perfect meal! In this article, we covered the key ingredients for lemon herb grilled shrimp. We went through how to prepare your marinade, marinate the shrimp, and grill them perfectly. I shared tips to help you get tender shrimp and avoid mistakes. You also learned storage options for leftovers and variations to keep your meals fresh. Remember, the right ingredients and techniques make all the difference. Enjoy your cooking!

Lemon Herb Grilled Shrimp

A refreshing and flavorful grilled shrimp dish marinated in lemon and herbs.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 200 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh basil (chopped)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • to taste salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • for serving lemon wedges

Instructions
 

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, and minced garlic. Add the chopped parsley, chopped basil, dried oregano, and season with salt and pepper. Whisk the ingredients together until they are well blended, creating a vibrant marinade.
  • Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the marinade. Using a spatula, gently toss the shrimp to ensure they are completely coated in the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator to marinate for 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
  • While the shrimp is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you are using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 15 minutes to prevent them from burning while grilling.
  • After marinating, thread the shrimp onto the skewers, placing about 4-5 shrimp on each skewer. Make sure they are close together to promote even cooking.
  • Once the grill is hot, carefully place the skewers on the grill. Grill the shrimp for approximately 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turn opaque and have visible grill marks. Avoid overcrowding the grill to ensure even cooking.
  • After grilling, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for about a minute. For an extra touch of flavor, garnish with additional fresh herbs before serving. Serve the skewers alongside lemon wedges for a refreshing burst of flavor.

Notes

Arrange the shrimp skewers on a large platter and sprinkle with extra chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve with a side of fresh salad or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
Keyword grilled, herbs, lemon, shrimp

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