Name: Easy Grilled Shrimp Skewers Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 7 min
Total time: 17 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound raw shrimp (peeled and deveined); 1 teaspoon olive oil; 1/4 cup sliced zucchini; 1/4 cup sliced yellow squash; 1/4 cup sliced red onions; 1/4 cup sliced red peppers; 1/4 cup sliced orange peppers; 1/2 teaspoon brown sugar or sweetener; 1/2 teaspoon chili powder; 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika); 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Introduction

These Easy Grilled Shrimp Skewers are a flavorful and quick option for a light meal or appetizer. Tender shrimp paired with fresh vegetables and a smoky BBQ spice blend come together perfectly on the grill. Whether for a summer cookout or a simple weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers delicious results every time.

Three metal skewers are laid out on bright green romaine lettuce leaves atop a white marbled surface. Each skewer is loaded with layers of grilled shrimp at the top, with a slightly charred orange-pink color and curled tails, followed by stacked slices of vibrant yellow squash and green zucchini, alternated with chunks of red, yellow, and orange bell peppers, and pieces of purple onion. The vegetables show grill marks, giving a warm roasted texture. The arrangement is neat, and the colors are vivid against the fresh green lettuce underneath, creating a fresh, colorful display. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 pound raw shrimp (peeled and deveined)

1 teaspoon olive oil

1/4 cup sliced zucchini

1/4 cup sliced yellow squash

1/4 cup sliced red onions

1/4 cup sliced red peppers

1/4 cup sliced orange peppers

1/2 teaspoon brown sugar or sweetener

1/2 teaspoon chili powder

1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (regular paprika works too)

1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

1/4 teaspoon onion powder

Salt and pepper to taste

BBQ sauce (for coating after grilling)

Instructions

Step 1: If using bamboo or wooden skewers, soak them in water for 20 minutes to prevent burning. Metal skewers do not need soaking.

Step 2: Coat the grill grates lightly with oil to prevent the shrimp and vegetables from sticking.

Step 3: Preheat the grill to medium heat, around 350°F (175°C).

Step 4: Drizzle the shrimp and sliced vegetables with olive oil. Sprinkle the brown sugar, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper evenly over them. Toss gently to coat.

Step 5: Thread the shrimp and vegetables alternately onto the skewers.

Step 6: Place the skewers on the grill and cook 3 to 4 minutes per side, totaling 6 to 7 minutes. The shrimp should be opaque and firm but not overcooked.

Step 7: Remove the skewers from the grill and immediately brush the shrimp with your favorite BBQ sauce before serving.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, marinate the shrimp briefly in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and spices before grilling.

Swap out vegetables for your favorites like cherry tomatoes or mushrooms for different textures.

If you don’t have a grill, you can broil the skewers in the oven on a grill pan.

Use metal skewers for easier handling and no soaking required.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, but be sure to fully thaw and pat the shrimp dry before seasoning and grilling to ensure even cooking and prevent excess moisture.

How do I prevent shrimp from sticking to the grill?

Make sure to oil the grill grates well before cooking and brush the shrimp with olive oil. Using soaked wooden or bamboo skewers also helps with handling.