Greek-Marinated Shrimp Skewers are a vibrant and healthy Mediterranean-inspired dish that’s perfect for any meal. Infused with a mix of herbs and spices, and served with a creamy lemon-dill sauce, these shrimp skewers offer an irresistible combination of freshness and zest. Whether grilled or cooked on a stovetop, they are easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, making them a go-to recipe for both beginner and experienced cooks.
Ingredients for Greek-Marinated Shrimp Skewers
- Shrimp Skewers:
- 1/4 cup + 1 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tsp. smoked paprika
- 1 1/2 tsp. dried oregano
- 1 tsp. garlic powder
- 1 tsp. dried fennel seeds
- 1 tsp. dried cumin seeds
- 3/4 tsp. salt
- Zest of 1 lemon (reserve juice for Lemon-Dill Sauce)
- 1 lb. raw peeled and deveined shrimp
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced into 1/2-inch thick coins, and then halved into half moons
- 1 small red onion, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks
- Lemon-Dill Sauce:
- 1/4 cup plain whole-milk Greek yogurt (substitute with sour cream if needed)
- 2 Tbsp. mayonnaise
- 1 1/2 Tbsp. fresh lemon juice
- 1 Tbsp. finely chopped fresh dill
- 2 tsp. finely chopped chives
- 1/2 tsp. garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp. each salt and black pepper
- Optional for Serving:
- Cooked white rice, couscous, orzo, quinoa, or farro
How to Make Greek-Marinated Shrimp Skewers – Step by Step
- Prepare the Marinade:
Combine olive oil, smoked paprika, oregano, garlic powder, fennel seeds, cumin seeds, salt, and lemon zest in a large mixing bowl. Add shrimp and toss until well coated. Allow to marinate for 30 minutes at room temperature or up to 5 hours refrigerated.Note: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water while the shrimp marinates.
- Make the Lemon-Dill Sauce:
In a medium bowl, mix Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, dill, chives, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth. Refrigerate until ready to use. - Assemble the Skewers:
Thread marinated shrimp onto 8 metal or wooden skewers, alternating with zucchini and red onion chunks. Aim for three shrimp per skewer. Brush any remaining marinade over the veggies. - Grill the Skewers:
Heat the grill to medium-high. Arrange skewers directly on the grill grates and cook, turning once, until shrimp and veggies are lightly charred (5-6 minutes). Remove from grill and set on a serving platter.Stovetop Option: Use a grill pan or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the pan and cook shrimp and veggies in separate batches for 5-6 minutes, turning once.
- Serve:
Serve the skewers over your choice of grain (rice, couscous, etc.) with a side of Lemon-Dill Sauce for dipping.
Helpful Tips for Greek-Marinated Shrimp Skewers
- Use fresh shrimp for the best texture and flavor. If frozen, thaw them properly before marinating.
- Don’t over-marinate the shrimp as the citrus can start to break down their texture, making them mushy.
- For added flavor, you can also include bell peppers or cherry tomatoes on the skewers.
Cooking Tips for the Best Greek-Marinated Shrimp Skewers
- Grill at medium-high heat to ensure even cooking without over-charring the shrimp or vegetables.
- Avoid overcrowding the skewers to allow proper heat circulation and ensure everything cooks evenly.
- Use a digital thermometer to monitor the shrimp’s internal temperature, which should reach 120-130°F for perfect doneness.
Serving Suggestions for Greek-Marinated Shrimp Skewers
Pair your skewers with any of these delightful side dishes:
- A refreshing Greek salad with feta, cucumbers, and olives.
- Tzatziki dip for extra creaminess.
- Garlic bread for a hearty accompaniment.
- A crisp, white wine like Sauvignon Blanc.
Nutritional Information
Per Serving:
- Calories: 280
- Protein: 22g
- Fat: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 590mg
- Vitamin C: 30% DV
- Calcium: 8% DV
Storage and Leftovers for Greek-Marinated Shrimp Skewers
- Refrigeration: Store leftover skewers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Reheat on a stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes. Avoid overcooking to maintain the shrimp’s texture.
- Freezing: While not recommended for skewered shrimp, you can freeze the marinated shrimp for up to 2 months before cooking.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Greek-Marinated Shrimp Skewers
- Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before marinating. - What other vegetables can I use?
Bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and mushrooms are great additions. - Is the Lemon-Dill Sauce optional?
No, the sauce enhances the flavor of the skewers but can be substituted with Tzatziki or a garlic aioli. - Can I cook these skewers in the oven?
Yes, bake them on a parchment-lined sheet at 400°F for 10-12 minutes.
Related Recipes for Greek-Marinated Shrimp Skewer Lovers
Conclusion
Greek-Marinated Shrimp Skewers are a perfect choice for a light and healthy meal bursting with Mediterranean flavors. Try it today, and don’t forget to share your version in the comments below. We’d love to hear your variations on this classic dish!
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Greek-Marinated Shrimp Skewers Recipe with Lemon-Dill Sauce
Description
Greek-Marinated Shrimp Skewers are a vibrant and healthy Mediterranean-inspired dish that’s perfect for any meal. Infused with a mix of herbs and spices, and served with a creamy lemon-dill sauce, these shrimp skewers offer an irresistible combination of freshness and zest. Whether grilled or cooked on a stovetop, they are easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, making them a go-to recipe for both beginner and experienced cooks.
Ingredients
-
- 1/4 cup + 1 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tsp. smoked paprika
- 1 1/2 tsp. dried oregano
- 1 tsp. garlic powder
- 1 tsp. dried fennel seeds
- 1 tsp. dried cumin seeds
- 3/4 tsp. salt
- Zest of 1 lemon (reserve juice for Lemon-Dill Sauce)
- 1 lb. raw peeled and deveined shrimp
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced into 1/2-inch thick coins, and then halved into half moons
- 1 small red onion, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks
- Lemon-Dill Sauce:
- 1/4 cup plain whole-milk Greek yogurt (substitute with sour cream if needed)
- 2 Tbsp. mayonnaise
- 1 1/2 Tbsp. fresh lemon juice
- 1 Tbsp. finely chopped fresh dill
- 2 tsp. finely chopped chives
- 1/2 tsp. garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp. each salt and black pepper
- Optional for Serving:
- Cooked white rice, couscous, orzo, quinoa, or farro
Instructions
-
Combine olive oil, smoked paprika, oregano, garlic powder, fennel seeds, cumin seeds, salt, and lemon zest in a large mixing bowl. Add shrimp and toss until well coated. Allow to marinate for 30 minutes at room temperature or up to 5 hours refrigerated.
Note: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water while the shrimp marinates.
- Make the Lemon-Dill Sauce:
In a medium bowl, mix Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, dill, chives, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth. Refrigerate until ready to use. - Assemble the Skewers:
Thread marinated shrimp onto 8 metal or wooden skewers, alternating with zucchini and red onion chunks. Aim for three shrimp per skewer. Brush any remaining marinade over the veggies. - Grill the Skewers:
Heat the grill to medium-high. Arrange skewers directly on the grill grates and cook, turning once, until shrimp and veggies are lightly charred (5-6 minutes). Remove from grill and set on a serving platter.Stovetop Option: Use a grill pan or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the pan and cook shrimp and veggies in separate batches for 5-6 minutes, turning once.
- Serve:
Serve the skewers over your choice of grain (rice, couscous, etc.) with a side of Lemon-Dill Sauce for dipping.
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
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- Use fresh shrimp for the best texture and flavor. If frozen, thaw them properly before marinating.
- Don’t over-marinate the shrimp as the citrus can start to break down their texture, making them mushy.
- For added flavor, you can also include bell peppers or cherry tomatoes on the skewers.
