Lemon Thyme Shrimp Skewers

Name: Lemon Thyme Shrimp Skewers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves, chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; Skewers (soaked in water if wooden)

Highlighted under: International Flavor Recipes

I adore making Lemon Thyme Shrimp Skewers because they are vibrant, flavorful, and incredibly easy to prepare. The combination of fresh lemon juice and aromatic thyme creates a delightful marinade that infuses the shrimp with a burst of flavor. Whether I'm hosting a cookout or enjoying a casual weeknight dinner, these skewers always impress. With just a bit of prep, I can have a delightful dish on the grill in no time, ready to savor and share with friends and family.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-04T15:49:27.968Z

When I first tried Lemon Thyme Shrimp Skewers, I was amazed by how such a simple dish could pack so much flavor. Marinating the shrimp not only makes them tender but also allows the citrus and herb notes to shine. I love grilling these skewers because the smokiness adds an extra layer to the overall dish, making it even more delicious.

One particular evening, I decided to enhance the dish by adding some zucchini and bell peppers to the skewers. The vibrant veggies not only complemented the shrimp but also provided a colorful presentation, making it perfect for summer gatherings. This little tweak made a big difference, both in taste and aesthetics!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Bright citrus flavor balanced with earthy thyme.
Succulent shrimp with a slight char from the grill.
Easily customizable with your favorite vegetables.

Marinade Magic

The marinade for these Lemon Thyme Shrimp Skewers plays a vital role in enhancing the shrimp's natural sweetness. The fresh lemon juice not only adds brightness but also helps to tenderize the shrimp slightly, making them more succulent. If you wish to intensify the flavor further, consider adding a teaspoon of lemon zest to the mixture—it will deepen the citrus profile without additional acidity.

Thyme is a wonderful herb that complements seafood exceptionally well. Its earthy aroma contrasts beautifully with the lemon, creating a balanced flavor. I prefer using fresh thyme for its robust taste, but you can substitute with dried thyme if that's all you have, using about a third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated. Just be sure to let the dried thyme soak in the marinade for a bit longer to fully release its flavor.

Grilling Tips

When grilling shrimp, the goal is to achieve a delicate char without overcooking them. Make sure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat (around 400-450°F) for optimal results. The shrimp cook quickly, so keep a close eye on them; they should only take about 2-3 minutes per side. You’ll know they’re ready when they turn opaque and curl slightly.

To make flipping the skewers easier and avoid losing any shrimp in the process, I recommend using metal skewers. If you prefer wooden ones, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before threading the shrimp. This prevents them from catching fire on the grill and ensures they stay intact while cooking.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make these delicious shrimp skewers:

Ingredients

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Skewers (soaked in water if wooden)

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Lemon Thyme Shrimp Skewers:

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, mix the lemon juice, olive oil, thyme, garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.

Marinate the Shrimp

Add the shrimp to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and let marinate in the fridge for at least 15 minutes.

Assemble the Skewers

Thread the marinated shrimp onto skewers, leaving a little space between each shrimp for even cooking.

Grill the Skewers

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the shrimp skewers for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are opaque and slightly charred.

Serve and Enjoy

Remove the skewers from the grill and serve immediately, garnished with extra lemon wedges if desired.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try mixing in a little chili flake for a hint of heat or adding some lemon zest to the marinade for extra citrus aroma.

Serving Suggestions

Lemon Thyme Shrimp Skewers make a stunning centerpiece for any meal but pair exceptionally well with light, fresh sides such as a crisp green salad or grilled vegetables. You can also serve them with a side of garlic bread to soak up the delicious juices. For adding a bit of heat, consider serving with a homemade spicy aioli for dipping.

I often garnish the skewers with additional lemon wedges and fresh thyme for an extra touch of presentation. This not only enhances the visual appeal but reinforces the flavors when squeezed over the shrimp just before eating.

Make-Ahead Options

For busy weeknights, you can prepare the marinade and soak the skewers in advance. Simply marinate the shrimp and keep them covered in the refrigerator for up to an hour or longer for more pronounced flavors. However, I would recommend not marinating for more than two hours, as the acid in the lemon juice can start to 'cook' the shrimp, resulting in a slightly tougher texture.

If you have leftovers, store the cooked skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat them gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, ensuring not to overcook them again. They also make a delightful addition to salads or pasta dishes when repurposed!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just ensure they are fully thawed and drained before marinating.

→ What other herbs can I use?

You can substitute thyme with rosemary or oregano for a different flavor profile.

→ How long can I marinate the shrimp?

Marinate for a minimum of 15 minutes and up to 2 hours for the best flavor.

→ Can I cook these in the oven?

Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the skewers on a tray for about 10–12 minutes.