Garlic Herb Butter Shrimp Skewers Simple and Tasty

If you’re looking for a quick and tasty meal, you’ve come to the right place. Garlic Herb Butter Shrimp Skewers are simple to make and packed with flavor. You’ll love the juicy shrimp paired with fresh herbs and tangy citrus. In this post, I’ll guide you step by step through the prep and cooking process. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this delicious dish!

Ingredients

Shrimp

For this recipe, you’ll need 1 pound of large shrimp. Make sure they are peeled and deveined. Fresh shrimp taste best, but frozen shrimp work too. If using frozen shrimp, thaw them well before cooking.

Butter and seasonings

Next, grab 1/4 cup of unsalted butter. Melt it in a saucepan or microwave. You will also need 4 cloves of garlic, finely minced. This adds strong flavor. For seasoning, add salt and black pepper to taste. These will enhance the shrimp’s natural taste.

Fresh herbs and citrus

Now, let’s talk herbs. You will need 2 tablespoons of fresh parsley and 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme. Both should be finely chopped. The fresh herbs add brightness and a fresh taste. Don’t forget the lemon! Use the zest of 1 lemon and 1 tablespoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice. The citrus adds a nice zing that balances the butter.

With these ingredients, you’ll make a fantastic dish that impresses everyone.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Garlic Herb Butter

Start by melting 1/4 cup of unsalted butter in a bowl. Next, finely mince 4 cloves of garlic. Add the garlic to the melted butter. Then, chop 2 tablespoons of fresh parsley and 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme. Mix these herbs into the bowl. Now, add 1 teaspoon of lemon zest and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. Finally, season with salt and black pepper. Whisk everything together until it’s well mixed. Set the garlic herb butter aside for later use.

Marinating the Shrimp

Take 1 pound of large shrimp that are peeled and deveined. Place the shrimp in the bowl with the garlic herb butter. Gently toss the shrimp so they are all well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap. Let the shrimp marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This step is key for flavor, as it helps the shrimp soak up the buttery goodness.

Cooking the Shrimp Skewers

While the shrimp is marinating, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. If you use wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 15 minutes. This helps to stop them from burning. Once the shrimp is ready, thread them onto the skewers, leaving space between each shrimp. This allows for even cooking. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side. You know they are done when they turn pink and feel firm. Remove the skewers from the grill and brush any leftover garlic herb butter over the shrimp for more flavor. Serve them hot, and enjoy!

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting the marinade

To make a great marinade, focus on the balance of flavors. The garlic herb butter is key. Use fresh garlic for the best taste. Combine melted butter, minced garlic, parsley, thyme, lemon zest, and lemon juice. This mixture adds depth to the shrimp.

Let the shrimp soak in the marinade for at least 30 minutes. This allows the shrimp to absorb all the flavors. You can marinate them longer if you want a stronger taste. Just don’t go overboard, as shrimp can become mushy.

Grilling techniques for juicy shrimp

Grilling shrimp can be easy if you follow a few steps. First, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This helps cook the shrimp evenly. If you use wooden skewers, soak them in water for 15 minutes. This prevents them from burning.

When you place the shrimp on the grill, leave space between each piece. This allows heat to circulate and cook the shrimp well. Grill each side for 2-3 minutes. Watch for a pink color and a firm texture. That means they are done.

Serving suggestions

These shrimp skewers are tasty on their own, but you can dress them up. For a fresh touch, add more chopped herbs. A sprinkle of parsley or thyme gives extra color. Serve them on a bed of rice or with a side salad for a complete meal. You can also pair them with lemon wedges for a zesty kick.

Variations

Alternative proteins

You can swap shrimp with other proteins. Chicken, fish, or scallops work great too. For chicken, use boneless pieces. Cut them into small cubes. For fish, choose firm types like salmon or swordfish. They hold up well on skewers. Scallops add a sweet taste and tender texture. Just be sure to adjust cooking times. Each protein has a different cooking time.

Different herbs and spices

Feel free to mix up the herbs and spices. Instead of parsley and thyme, try basil or cilantro. These add a fresh twist. For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes. You can also use smoked paprika for a deeper flavor. Experimenting with herbs makes each meal unique. The key is to use fresh herbs for the best flavor.

Serving with sides

These Garlic Herb Butter Shrimp Skewers pair well with various sides. Try serving them with rice or quinoa. They soak up the tasty garlic butter. A fresh salad or grilled veggies add color and crunch. For a hearty meal, add some crusty bread. It’s perfect for dipping into the garlic butter. Choose sides that complement the shrimp’s rich flavors.

Storage Info

Storing leftovers

After you enjoy your garlic herb butter shrimp skewers, store any leftovers in an airtight container. Place them in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to three days. Make sure to cool the skewers before sealing. This keeps them from getting soggy.

Reheating options

To reheat the shrimp, you have a few options. The best way is to use a skillet. Heat the skillet over medium heat. Add a little butter or oil, then place the shrimp in the pan. Cook for a few minutes until warmed through. You can also use a microwave. Just place the shrimp on a plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat for about 30 seconds. Check them and repeat if needed.

Freezing for later use

If you want to save shrimp for later, freezing is a great option. Place the cooled skewers in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them for about an hour. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. They will last for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them first. Place them in the fridge overnight or run them under cold water for quick thawing. Frozen shrimp works well, but fresh shrimp has the best taste.

How long do I marinate the shrimp?

Marinate the shrimp for at least 30 minutes. This time lets the shrimp soak up the garlic and herbs. If you have time, you can marinate them for up to 2 hours. Just remember to keep them in the fridge while they marinate.

What’s the best way to tell when shrimp are cooked?

Look for a pink color and a firm texture. Cooked shrimp will turn from gray to pink. They should also curl into a C shape. If they are overcooked, they will turn into an O shape and become tough. Keep an eye on them while grilling for the best results.

This post covered how to make delicious shrimp skewers. We discussed key ingredients like shrimp, butter, and herbs. Then, I gave you step-by-step instructions for preparing and cooking. You learned tips for marinating and grilling. We also explored variations with other proteins and herbs. Finally, I shared helpful storage info and answered common questions.

Now, you’re ready to make tasty shrimp skewers anytime. Enjoy cooking and sharing your mea