BBQ Grilled Shrimp Skewers: the mere mention of them conjures images of sun-drenched patios, the smoky aroma of the grill, and the satisfying sizzle as plump shrimp transform into culinary perfection. Have you ever experienced that burst of flavor, the sweet and savory dance on your tongue that only perfectly grilled shrimp can deliver? If not, prepare to be amazed! These aren’t just any shrimp skewers; they’re a passport to summer, a celebration of simple ingredients, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

While grilling shrimp might seem like a modern backyard staple, the concept of cooking food on skewers dates back centuries, with variations found in cultures across the globe. From the Middle Eastern kebabs to the Japanese yakitori, skewered food represents a communal and festive way of dining. Our BBQ Grilled Shrimp Skewers draw inspiration from this rich history, adding a distinctly American twist with the bold flavors of barbecue.

But what makes these skewers so irresistible? It’s the perfect combination of textures the slight char on the outside, giving way to the tender, juicy shrimp within. It’s the ease of preparation; a quick marinade, a few minutes on the grill, and you have a delicious and healthy meal ready to go. And, of course, it’s the taste! The smoky sweetness of the barbecue sauce complements the natural sweetness of the shrimp, creating a flavor profile that’s both familiar and exciting. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or simply looking for a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner, these BBQ Grilled Shrimp Skewers are sure to become a new favorite.

Ingredients:

1.5 pounds large shrimp (21-25 count), peeled and deveined
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice, freshly squeezed
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon cumin
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
1/4 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 red onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 zucchini, cut into 1/2-inch thick rounds
12 wooden skewers (soaked in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning)
BBQ sauce of your choice, for basting (I prefer a sweet and tangy one!)
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)

Preparing the Marinade and Shrimp:

In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, cayenne pepper (if using), black pepper, and salt. This is our flavor bomb!
Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the bowl with the marinade. Toss to coat the shrimp evenly, ensuring every single one gets a good dose of that delicious flavor.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful the shrimp will be, but don’t go beyond 2 hours, or the lemon juice might start to “cook” the shrimp.

Preparing the Vegetables:

While the shrimp is marinating, prepare your vegetables. Wash and dry the red bell pepper, yellow bell pepper, red onion, and zucchini.
Cut the bell peppers into 1-inch pieces. I like to remove the seeds and membranes for a cleaner taste.
Cut the red onion into 1-inch pieces. You can separate the layers slightly if you like.
Cut the zucchini into 1/2-inch thick rounds. This thickness will ensure they cook evenly on the grill.

Assembling the Skewers:

Now comes the fun part assembling the skewers! Take your pre-soaked wooden skewers (this is crucial to prevent them from catching fire on the grill).
Thread the shrimp and vegetables onto the skewers, alternating between them. I like to start and end with a piece of shrimp for a nice presentation. You can arrange them in any order you like, but I usually go with shrimp, bell pepper, onion, zucchini, and repeat.
Don’t overcrowd the skewers. Leave a little space between each piece so the heat can circulate and cook everything evenly. Aim for about 4-5 shrimp and a similar amount of vegetables per skewer.
Repeat until all the shrimp and vegetables are used up. You should have about 10-12 skewers, depending on the size of your shrimp and vegetables.

Grilling the Skewers:

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375-450°F or 190-230°C). Make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
Place the skewers on the preheated grill. Be careful not to overcrowd the grill; work in batches if necessary.
Grill for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp is pink and opaque and the vegetables are tender-crisp. Keep a close eye on them, as shrimp cooks quickly and you don’t want to overcook them. Overcooked shrimp will be rubbery and tough.
During the last minute or two of grilling, brush the skewers generously with your favorite BBQ sauce. This will add a delicious glaze and extra flavor.
Continue grilling for another minute, or until the BBQ sauce is slightly caramelized.
Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a minute or two before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful shrimp.

Serving and Enjoying:

Garnish the grilled shrimp skewers with fresh chopped parsley, if desired. This adds a pop of color and freshness.
Serve the skewers immediately while they’re hot and juicy.
These BBQ grilled shrimp skewers are delicious on their own as an appetizer or as part of a larger meal. They pair well with rice, quinoa, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad.
For a complete meal, consider serving them with a side of coleslaw, potato salad, or corn on the cob.
Leftovers (if you have any!) can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave before serving.

Tips and Variations:

Spice it up: If you like things spicy, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade. You can also use a spicy BBQ sauce for basting.
Sweeten it up: For a sweeter flavor, add a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup to the marinade.
Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the skewers, such as cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, or pineapple chunks.
Use different types of shrimp: You can use any size shrimp you like, but I prefer large shrimp (21-25 count) for grilling. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Marinate longer: For a more intense flavor, marinate the shrimp for up to 2 hours.
Grill indoors: If you don’t have a grill, you can cook the skewers in a grill pan on the stovetop or under the broiler in the oven.
Make it a meal prep: Assemble the skewers ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to grill. This is a great way to save time on busy weeknights.
Serve with dipping sauce: Offer a variety of dipping sauces, such as ranch dressing, blue cheese dressing, or a sweet chili sauce.

Why this recipe works:

This recipe is a winner because it’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. The marinade is simple but effective, and the combination of shrimp and vegetables is both healthy and delicious. The grilling process gives the shrimp a smoky char and the vegetables a tender-crisp texture. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for summer barbecues, parties, or any occasion.

Troubleshooting:

Shrimp is overcooked: If your shrimp is rubbery and tough, it’s likely overcooked. Be sure to keep a close eye on it while grilling and remove it from the heat as soon as it turns pink and opaque.
Vegetables are undercooked: If your vegetables are still hard, you can either grill them for a few more minutes or microwave them for a minute or two before grilling.
Skewers are burning: Make sure to soak the wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning. You can also use metal skewers.
Shrimp is sticking to the grill: Make sure the grill grates are clean and lightly oiled before placing the skewers on the grill.

Nutritional Information (approximate, per skewer):

Calories: 150-200
Protein: 15-20g
Fat: 8-12g
Carbohydrates: 5-8g

Enjoy your delicious BBQ Grilled Shrimp Skewers! I hope you love them as much as I do!

Conclusion:

So there you have it! These BBQ Grilled Shrimp Skewers are truly a must-try recipe for anyone who loves quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful meals. From the vibrant marinade that infuses every bite with smoky sweetness to the satisfying char from the grill, these skewers are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser at your next barbecue or a delightful weeknight dinner. I’ve made these countless times, and they always disappear in a flash!

What makes these skewers so special is their versatility. The base recipe is fantastic as is, but feel free to experiment with different flavor combinations to suit your own taste. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the marinade. If you prefer a more citrusy flavor, increase the amount of lemon or lime juice. You could even try adding a touch of honey or maple syrup for extra sweetness. The possibilities are endless!

Beyond the marinade, consider different serving options. These BBQ Grilled Shrimp Skewers are delicious served over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa, making for a complete and satisfying meal. They’re also fantastic in tacos or wraps, adding a burst of flavor and protein. For a lighter option, serve them alongside a fresh salad or grilled vegetables. I personally love pairing them with grilled corn on the cob and a simple avocado salad. And don’t forget the dipping sauce! A creamy cilantro-lime sauce or a tangy BBQ sauce would be the perfect complement to the smoky shrimp.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

Serve over rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
Use in tacos or wraps for a flavorful twist.
Pair with a fresh salad or grilled vegetables for a lighter option.
Try different dipping sauces, such as cilantro-lime or BBQ sauce.
Add pineapple chunks or bell peppers to the skewers for extra flavor and color.
Experiment with different spice blends in the marinade.

I truly believe that this recipe for BBQ Grilled Shrimp Skewers will become a staple in your kitchen. It’s quick, easy, and incredibly delicious perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings. The smoky, sweet, and slightly tangy flavor is simply irresistible, and the versatility of the recipe allows you to customize it to your liking.

So, what are you waiting for? Fire up the grill and give these skewers a try! I’m confident that you’ll love them as much as I do. And when you do, please don’t hesitate to share your experience with me. I’d love to hear about your variations, serving suggestions, and any tips or tricks you discover along the way. Share your photos and comments on social media using [Your Hashtag] or tag me [Your Social Media Handle]. I can’t wait to see your creations and hear your feedback. Happy grilling!

I’m always looking for ways to improve my recipes and make them even better, so your feedback is invaluable. Let me know what you think, and together, we can make this the ultimate BBQ Grilled Shrimp Skewer recipe!