Lemon Butter Grilled Shrimp Skewers

Easy Lemon Butter Grilled Shrimp Skewers – Quick Summer Dinner Recipe

Zesty, smoky, buttery, and fast—these Lemon Butter Grilled Shrimp Skewers check all the boxes for a mouthwatering summer meal. Whether you’re searching for a last-minute dinner idea, a simple grilled shrimp recipe, or a refreshing seafood option, you’ve just found a keeper. It’s quick to prep, easy to cook, and impossible to forget.

Inspiration

This recipe came to life on a warm summer night when the grill was hot and the shrimp was fresh. Inspired by coastal cooking and the bright flavors of Mediterranean cuisine, these skewers are all about simplicity meeting flavor. Lemon and butter are a classic duo—paired with smoky grilled shrimp, they become something special. Perfect for outdoor dinners, spontaneous gatherings, or anytime you want a dish that brings sunshine to the table.

Why You’ll Love It

• Bursting with bold lemon and garlic flavor in every bite
• Perfectly charred shrimp in under 10 minutes on the grill
• A naturally gluten-free and low-carb option that feels indulgent
• Simple ingredients, minimal prep, and big visual appeal on a plate

Quick Grocery List

For the Lemon Butter Marinade:

• Unsalted butter
• Fresh lemon juice
• Lemon zest
• Garlic
• Fresh parsley & thyme
• Red pepper flakes
• Salt and black pepper

For the Shrimp Skewers:

• Large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• Olive oil
• Smoked paprika
• Skewers (wooden or metal)
• Lemon wedges

Things to Consider Before Preparing Your Meal

Prep & Cook Time:
15 minutes prep, 10 minutes cook time

Equipment Checklist:

• Grill or grill pan
• mixing bowls
• basting brush
• skewers
• tongs

Dietary Adjustments:

• Easily made dairy-free with plant-based butter or ghee; naturally gluten-free and low-carb

Serving Size:
Makes 4 servings

General Notes

• Shrimp cooks fast—keep your eyes on the grill to avoid overcooking.
• Marinate just before grilling. Lemon juice can start to break down the shrimp if left too long.
• Metal skewers don’t require soaking like wooden ones do—ideal for quick prep.

Substitutions

• Butter: Use ghee or dairy-free butter for a lactose-free version.
• Paprika: Swap with cayenne or chipotle powder for a spicier profile.
• Shrimp: Substitute with scallops or even chunks of firm white fish if desired.

Variations

• Add colorful veggies (bell peppers, red onions, zucchini) between shrimp on the skewer.
• Try a garlic-herb butter in place of lemon butter for a more savory twist.
• Serve over pasta, couscous, or fresh greens for a complete meal.

Let’s Get Cooking

Step 1 (Soaking Skewers):

• Use a baking dish to soak skewers evenly and avoid warping.

Step 2 (Marinade):

• Use a microwave-safe bowl to melt butter quickly and add lemon zest while hot to release more oils.

Step 3 (Shrimp Prep):

• Pat shrimp dry before marinating to help the seasoning stick better.

Step 4 (Skewering):

• Thread shrimp through the thick end and tail to keep them secure on the grill.

Step 5 (Grilling):

• Use a basting brush for even lemon butter distribution during cooking.

Step 6 (Serving):

• Serve immediately with lemon wedges to highlight the citrus notes.

Nutrition Breakdown (Per Serving)

• Calories: 310 – A hearty but balanced dish, perfect for a light summer dinner.
• Carbohydrates: 3g – Keeps this dish low-carb and keto-friendly.
• Cholesterol: 220mg – Higher due to the shrimp, but fits into a heart-healthy diet in moderation.
• Fat: 19g – From butter and olive oil, offering flavor and satiety.
• Fiber: 0g – Add veggies or whole grains on the side to boost fiber.
• Protein: 29g – Excellent source of lean protein.
• Saturated Fat: 9g – From butter; reduce by using less or a dairy-free alternative.
• Sodium: 780mg – Moderate; reduce added salt if you’re watching sodium.
• Sugar: 1g – Naturally occurring from lemon and garlic.
• Trans Fat: 0g – Free from artificial trans fats.
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g – Healthy fats from olive oil and natural butter.

Storing and Reheating

• Storage: Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Use a skillet over low heat with a bit of butter to reheat gently. Avoid microwaving too long to prevent rubbery shrimp.
• Freezing: Not recommended. Shrimp can become mushy when thawed and reheated.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I bake these instead of grilling?
A: Yes! Bake at 400°F for 8–10 minutes on a parchment-lined sheet until shrimp are pink and cooked through.

Q: What can I serve with these shrimp skewers?
A: Great sides include garlic rice, grilled veggies, couscous, or a crisp cucumber salad.

Q: Are these skewers spicy?
A: Only mildly, thanks to the optional red pepper flakes. Feel free to omit for a milder version.

Q: Can I prepare the marinade in advance?
A: Absolutely—store in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just melt and stir before using.

Q: Can kids eat this dish?
A: Yes! Just skip the pepper flakes, and it’s a flavorful, family-friendly meal.

Q: Can I grill these indoors?
A: Yes. A grill pan on your stovetop works perfectly when outdoor grilling isn’t an option.

Engage and Share

If you try these Lemon Butter Grilled Shrimp Skewers, let me know in the comments how they turned out! Rate the recipe, share your tips, or tag your dish online to inspire other readers. Looking for more summer recipes – try some of these other skewer ideas:

• Tangy Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken Skewers
• Char-Grilled Vegetable Skewers with Rosemary