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Flavorful Grilled Chimichurri Shrimp Skewers

grilled chimichurri shrimp skewers - featured image

Juicy, smoky shrimp skewers marinated in a vibrant chimichurri sauce and served with charred lemon for a fresh, tangy finish. Perfect for quick summer BBQs and crowd-pleasing meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 cup packed fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup packed fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 large lemon, halved
  • Bamboo or metal skewers (soaked in water if bamboo)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chimichurri Sauce (10 minutes): In a food processor, combine parsley, cilantro, garlic, red wine vinegar, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Pulse until herbs are finely chopped but still slightly chunky. Slowly drizzle in olive oil while pulsing until emulsified. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  2. Marinate the Shrimp (15 minutes): Place shrimp in a mixing bowl. Pour about two-thirds of the chimichurri sauce over shrimp and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for 15 minutes, no longer.
  3. Prepare the Grill and Skewers (5 minutes): Preheat grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F). Soak bamboo skewers for at least 30 minutes if using. Thread 4-5 shrimp onto each skewer, leaving space between each.
  4. Grill the Shrimp and Lemons (6-8 minutes): Place shrimp skewers on grill and cook 3-4 minutes per side until pink and slightly charred. Grill lemon halves cut-side down for 3-5 minutes until caramelized.
  5. Final Touch and Serve: Remove shrimp and lemons from grill. Drizzle reserved chimichurri sauce over skewers and squeeze charred lemon juice on top before serving.

Notes

Do not overcook shrimp to avoid rubbery texture. Keep marinating time to 15 minutes to prevent shrimp from ‘cooking’ in acid. Oil grill grates before cooking to prevent sticking. Grilling lemon halves adds smoky caramelized flavor. Bamboo skewers must be soaked to prevent burning.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled shrimp, chimichurri sauce, shrimp skewers, summer BBQ, easy shrimp recipe, charred lemon, seafood, quick dinner