If you’re looking to turn your next barbecue into a coastal feast, Grilled Garlic Herb Shrimp is your new go-to. This recipe combines juicy shrimp with a punchy, flavorful marinade made with garlic, herbs, lemon, and a touch of sweetness. The result? Perfectly grilled skewers that taste like they came straight off a beachside grill.
Whether you’re entertaining guests or just treating yourself to a flavorful weeknight dinner, this easy recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. Plus, the marinade isn’t just for shrimp—it’s a versatile, all-purpose seafood hero.
🧄 Why You’ll Love This Shrimp Recipe
✔️ Fast & Easy – Just marinate and grill. That’s it.
✔️ Big, Bold Flavor – Garlic, herbs, lemon, and a hint of brown sugar give it serious depth.
✔️ Perfect for Grilling Season – A light, fresh dish ideal for summer nights.
✔️ Customizable Marinade – Works beautifully with scallops, fish, or even chicken.
🛒 Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
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2 lbs large shrimp (tails on, peeled & deveined)
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2 tablespoons minced garlic
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2 teaspoons paprika
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2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
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2 teaspoons dried basil
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2 tablespoons lemon juice
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¼ cup olive oil
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2 tablespoons brown sugar
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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Salt to taste
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Wooden skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes)
👨🍳 Instructions
1. Prep the Shrimp
Rinse the shrimp under cold water, peel them (leave tails on for presentation), and devein if needed. Pat dry with a paper towel.
2. Make the Marinade
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
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Olive oil
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Lemon juice
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Minced garlic
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Paprika
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Italian seasoning
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Dried basil
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Brown sugar
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Black pepper
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Salt to taste
Whisk everything together until well blended.
3. Marinate the Shrimp
Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss until evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (2–4 hours for best flavor).
4. Skewer & Grill
Thread 4–5 shrimp per skewer. Preheat grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates. Grill the shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side until opaque and lightly charred.
5. Serve & Enjoy
Serve immediately with lemon wedges, fresh herbs, or a light salad. These pair beautifully with rice pilaf, grilled vegetables, or crusty bread.
🧠 Pro Tips for Shrimp Perfection
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Don’t overcook! Shrimp cook fast—once they turn pink and curl, they’re done.
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Use metal skewers if grilling often—they don’t burn and are reusable.
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Add a smoky touch by tossing in a few soaked wood chips on the grill.
🍽️ Serving Ideas
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Over a bed of buttery garlic rice
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With a side of grilled corn & lime
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In a wrap with tzatziki and cucumbers
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As a protein topper for Greek salad
🕒 Time & Yield
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
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Marinate Time: 1–4 hours
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Cook Time: 6–8 minutes
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Servings: 4–6 people