Zesty Grilled Shrimp Skewers with Citrus and Herb Marinade
Tender shrimp marinated in a vibrant mix of citrus juices, garlic, and herbs, then grilled to smoky perfection for a light summer seafood dish. This mediterranean-inspired seafood ready in about 31 minutes blends peeled and deveined large shrimp, freshly squeezed lemon juice, freshly squeezed orange juice into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 180 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.
Ingredients
- 1 lb, peeled and deveined large shrimp
- 3 tbsp, freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2 tbsp, freshly squeezed orange juice
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 3, minced garlic cloves
- 2 tbsp, chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tbsp, chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 8, soaked in water for 30 minutes wooden skewers
Instructions
- Step 1: In a medium bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons lemon juice, 2 tablespoons orange juice, 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, 3 minced garlic cloves, 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper to create the marinade.
- Step 2: Add 1 pound peeled and deveined large shrimp to the marinade and toss until shrimp are fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for 20 minutes to absorb flavors.
- Step 3: Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (about 400°F). Thread the marinated shrimp onto 8 soaked wooden skewers, about 4-5 shrimp per skewer.
- Step 4: Grill the shrimp skewers for 2-3 minutes per side until the shrimp are opaque and slightly charred at the edges. Remove from heat and serve immediately.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Zesty Grilled Shrimp Skewers with Citrus and Herb Marinade take to make?
Total time is about 31 minutes (25 min prep + 6 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.
How do I store leftover Zesty Grilled Shrimp Skewers with Citrus and Herb Marinade?
Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.
Can I substitute ingredients in Zesty Grilled Shrimp Skewers with Citrus and Herb Marinade?
Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.
How do I scale Zesty Grilled Shrimp Skewers with Citrus and Herb Marinade for a different number of people?
The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.
What goes well with Zesty Grilled Shrimp Skewers with Citrus and Herb Marinade?
Mediterranean seafood like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.
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