Grilled Shrimp Scampi Skewers

These Grilled Shrimp Scampi Skewers bring all the bright, garlicky, lemon-forward flavors of a classic scampi, but in a lighter, grill-ready form. Olive oil, fresh lemon juice, garlic and parsley create a vibrant marinade that enhances the natural sweetness of shrimp without heavy butter. After grilling, a final squeeze of lemon and a dusting of freshly grated Parmesan finish the skewers for a simple, elegant dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, backyard barbecues, or entertaining.

The technique is straightforward: marinate briefly, thread shrimp (and optional thin lemon rounds) onto skewers, then grill over high heat until opaque and just cooked through. The whole process takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, with a short 20–25 minute marinade. These skewers are light, protein-rich, and easy to customize.

Recipe Summary

Yield: 4 servings (about 2 skewers per serving)
Total time: 30 minutes
Serving size: 2 skewers
Calories per serving: 164 kcal

Ingredients

1 tbsp olive oil
2 large lemons, halved (juice and additional slices optional)
3 cloves garlic, crushed
3 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
1/8 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
32 large shrimp, peeled and deveined (about 1 lb)
3 large lemons, sliced into very thin rounds (about 24 rounds — optional for threading between shrimp)
16 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for 1 hour to prevent burning
Cooking spray or a light brush of oil for the grill grates
1 tbsp freshly shredded Parmesan, for finishing

Instructions

In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, juice from 1½ lemons, chopped parsley, crushed garlic and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well to combine.
Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss until evenly coated with the marinade. Let the shrimp marinate for 20–25 minutes in the refrigerator. Do not marinate much longer, as the lemon juice can begin to firm the shrimp.
Preheat a gas grill (or charcoal grill) on high heat. Make sure the grill grate is clean and well oiled to prevent sticking.
Thread the shrimp onto skewers. For a decorative touch, alternate shrimp with very thin lemon rounds, starting and ending with shrimp. Using two parallel skewers per kebab (one above the other) helps keep the shrimp and lemon slices stable and prevents rotation while grilling.
Lightly spray or oil the grill grates and place the skewers directly over the heat. Grill the skewers for 2–3 minutes per side, flipping once, until the shrimp turn opaque and are just cooked through. Avoid overcooking to keep the shrimp tender.
Transfer skewers to a platter. Squeeze the remaining ½ lemon over the cooked shrimp and sprinkle with freshly shredded Parmesan. Serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

Presentation: Threading thin lemon slices between shrimp makes an attractive presentation and adds a subtle citrus aroma while grilling. If you choose this method, use two skewers per kebab to keep everything aligned.
Grill alternatives: If you don’t have a grill, these can be broiled on high for 2–3 minutes per side or cooked in a hot grill pan on the stovetop.
Make-ahead: Assemble shrimp on skewers and refrigerate for up to a few hours before grilling. Keep the skewers covered and chilled until ready to cook.
Flavor variations: Swap parsley for cilantro for a different herb note, or add a teaspoon of smoked paprika for a subtle smoky flavor. For a richer finish, drizzle a teaspoon of good-quality olive oil over the skewers after grilling.
Spice level: Increase crushed red pepper flakes to taste, or serve with a lemon-garlic aioli on the side for dipping.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a crisp green salad and crusty bread to soak up the juices.
Pair with garlic butter pasta or herb rice for a heartier meal.
Skewers are also great over mixed greens, in tacos, or served alongside grilled vegetables.

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories: 164 kcal
Carbohydrates: 3.5 g
Protein: 24 g
Fat: 6 g
Cholesterol: 173 mg
Sodium: 196 mg

If you prepare this recipe, consider rating it or leaving a comment with any tweaks you made — feedback helps refine recipes and inspires others. Enjoy these bright, garlicky shrimp skewers fresh off the grill!