Get ready to turn up the flavor with this easy and delicious Best Marinated Grilled Shrimp. These juicy shrimp soak in a zesty lemon-garlic marinade and grill up in just minutes, making them perfect for everything from backyard BBQs to weeknight dinners. Lightly charred with a smoky finish, they’re bright, herby, and incredibly satisfying. Enjoy them hot off the skewer or serve them in tacos, salads, grain bowls, or pasta for a flavorful protein boost that tastes restaurant-worthy but is super simple to make at home.
Ingredients
1.5 pounds large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on)
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to help the marinade stick.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Add the shrimp and toss to coat evenly. Cover and marinate in the fridge for 15–30 minutes.
While the shrimp are marinating, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
Thread shrimp onto metal skewers or pre-soaked wooden skewers, leaving a bit of space between each one.
Grill for 2–3 minutes per side, until the shrimp are pink, opaque, and have nice grill marks.
Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired. Serve with lemon wedges, fresh salad, or your favorite side.
Notes
Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor—bottled just doesn’t compare
Don’t over-marinate the shrimp; the acid in the lemon can start to “cook” them and make the texture rubbery
Soak wooden skewers for at least 20 minutes before grilling to prevent burning
For extra heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade
Leftover shrimp? They’re great chilled in wraps, tossed with pasta, or added to a seafood salad
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just make sure they’re fully thawed and patted dry before marinating.
Do I have to grill these?
No grill? No problem. Use a grill pan on the stovetop or broil the shrimp in the oven on high for 4–5 minutes, flipping once.
How long will leftovers keep?
Cooked shrimp will stay fresh in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
What can I serve this with?
These shrimp pair well with rice, couscous, grilled veggies, or a light citrusy salad. They also make fantastic taco fillings.
Can I make the marinade ahead of time?
Absolutely. Mix the marinade and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just add the shrimp right before you’re ready to cook