Skewered Shrimp recipe served on a plate, by Pho Thien Vietnamese Kitchen - Aurora

Skewered Shrimp Recipe

Make Skewered Shrimp Recipe in just 45m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

Time45m
Serves8
Jump to Recipe
Last updated Oct 20, 2026

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Ingredients

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Method

Shrimp and Marinade

  1. 1

    Prepare shrimp

    If not already done, peel and devein the shrimp leaving tails on or off per preference. Pat shrimp dry with paper towels — removing surface moisture helps the marinade stick and ensures better sear.

  2. 2

    Make marinade

    In a medium bowl whisk together 3 tbs olive oil, 2 tbs fresh lemon juice, 2 tsp minced garlic, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp ground cumin, 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (if using), 1 tsp kosher salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, and 1 tsp honey or agave (optional). Taste and adjust seasoning: more lemon for brightness, more honey for glaze, or more red pepper flakes for heat.

  3. 3

    Marinate shrimp

    Add the 24 prepared shrimp to the marinade and toss until evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for 15–30 minutes. Do not exceed 1 hour — citrus and salt start to cure the shrimp and can make them tough if marinated too long.

Skewers & Cooking

  1. 4

    Prepare skewers

    If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning. Thread 3 shrimp per skewer (for 8 skewers use 3 each) or 4 shrimp per skewer for shorter skewers—thread through both ends of each shrimp so they lie flat and evenly spaced. Leave about 1 inch of skewer free on each end for handling.

  2. 5

    Preheat grill or pan

    Preheat an outdoor grill or indoor grill pan to medium-high (about 400–450°F / 200–230°C). If using a stovetop skillet, heat a heavy-duty skillet over medium-high until hot. Lightly brush or spray the grill grates or pan with oil to prevent sticking.

  3. 6

    Cook shrimp

    Place skewers on the preheated grill or pan. Cook for 1.5–2 minutes per side (3–4 minutes total), flipping once, until shrimp are opaque and just firm — internal temperature should reach 120–125°F (49–52°C) for perfectly cooked shrimp. If glaze is desired, brush a little extra honey mixture or reserved marinade (not the used marinade unless boiled) during the last 30 seconds and allow it to set. Avoid overcooking which makes shrimp rubbery.

  4. 7

    Finish and garnish

    Transfer cooked skewers to a serving platter. Sprinkle with 2 tbs finely chopped fresh parsley and a light squeeze of fresh lemon from the lemon wedges. Serve immediately with lemon wedges and your choice of dipping sauce (about 1 cup) on the side.

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