Description
Delicious and healthy grilled shrimp kebabs marinated in a flavorful blend of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and smoked paprika, skewered with vibrant vegetables like red bell pepper, zucchini, and red onion. Perfect for summer grilling and serving as a main course with a Mediterranean flair.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp and Marinade
- 1½ pounds large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Vegetables and Skewers
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 zucchini, sliced into thick rounds
- 1 red onion, cut into chunks
- Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soaked in water for 30 minutes)
Instructions
- Soak Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning during grilling.
- Prepare Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Marinate Shrimp: Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the bowl and toss to coat them thoroughly in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for 20 to 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Prepare Vegetables: While the shrimp marinates, cut the red bell pepper and red onion into chunks and slice the zucchini into thick rounds to ensure even cooking on the grill.
- Assemble Kebabs: Thread the shrimp and vegetables alternately onto the skewers, making sure to distribute them evenly for balanced cooking.
- Preheat Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, ensuring it is hot enough to cook the shrimp quickly and impart a nice char.
- Grill Kebabs: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side, turning carefully until the shrimp turn opaque with slight char marks and the vegetables become tender.
- Serve: Remove kebabs from the grill and serve hot with extra lemon wedges or alongside a side of rice for a satisfying meal.
Notes
- You can add other vegetables like cherry tomatoes or mushrooms for variety.
- Brushing the kebabs with reserved marinade while grilling enhances flavor and juiciness.
- Ensure shrimp are not overcooked to maintain tenderness and avoid rubbery texture.
- For easier grilling, metal skewers can be used as they do not require soaking.
