Grilled shrimp scampi skewers are like a summer symphony on a stick—though maybe that’s a bit dramatic, or maybe not enough. The sizzle and pop of the grill, the intoxicating aroma of garlic and lemon dancing together, and the juicy burst of perfectly cooked shrimp—all harmonize in a way that makes you forget everything else. Remember that time when you tried to grill in the rain because you just couldn’t wait? Yeah, this recipe is totally worth it.
Steps
- Combine olive oil, juice from 1.5 lemons, parsley, garlic, and red pepper flakes in a large bowl. Mix well and add the shrimp, ensuring they are coated evenly. Let them marinate for 20 to 25 minutes.
- Preheat a gas grill to high heat. Use 8 pairs of parallel skewers to thread the shrimp and folded lemon slices, starting and ending with shrimp, to form 8 kebabs.
- Clean and oil the grill grate thoroughly to prevent sticking. Grill the skewers for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until the shrimp turn opaque.
- Place the grilled shrimp on a platter, squeeze the juice from the remaining half lemon over them, and sprinkle with parmesan cheese to finish.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 large lemons, cut in half
- Juice from 1 1/2 lemons
- 3 cloves garlic, crushed
- 3 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/8 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 32 large shrimp, peeled and deveined (1 pound)
- 3 large lemons, sliced into 24 very thin rounds (optional)
- 16 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for 1 hour
- Cooking spray
- 1 tablespoon freshly grated parmesan cheese
Nutritional Values
Calories: 656 kcal | Carbohydrates: 14 g | Protein: 96 g | Fat: 24 g | Cholesterol: 692 mg | Sodium: 784 mg
FAQ
- Can I use metal skewers instead of bamboo for this recipe?
- Yes, you can use metal skewers instead of bamboo. Just be cautious as metal skewers can get very hot, so handle them with care.
- Is it necessary to soak bamboo skewers before grilling?
- Yes, soaking bamboo skewers for at least an hour is important to prevent them from burning during grilling.
- Can I prepare the shrimp skewers in advance?
- You can marinate the shrimp in advance for up to 25 minutes. However, it’s best to grill them fresh to ensure the shrimp remain juicy and tender.
- What can I substitute for parmesan cheese if I don’t have any?
- If you don’t have parmesan cheese, you can try using any hard cheese you prefer, like pecorino or asiago, to finish the dish.
- What should I do if I don’t have a grill?
- If you don’t have a grill, you can use a grill pan on the stovetop or broil the skewers in the oven for a similar effect.
Tips
- To prevent the shrimp and lemon slices from rotating on the skewers while grilling, use two parallel skewers for each kebab. This will keep everything stable and ensure even cooking.
- Make sure to soak the bamboo skewers in water for at least an hour before grilling. This helps prevent them from burning on the grill.
- Clean and oil the grill grate thoroughly before cooking to minimize sticking and help achieve an ideal char on your shrimp.
- After grilling, enhance the flavor by squeezing fresh lemon juice over the shrimp and sprinkling with grated parmesan cheese for a zesty finish.
Equipment
- Bamboo Skewers (16 pieces, soaked in water for 1 hour)
- Gas Grill
