As summer days roll in, the aroma of grilling wafts through the air, evoking memories of backyard barbecues and laughter shared with friends. One sunny afternoon, while daydreaming on my patio, I decided to create a dish that would encapsulate the vibrant flavors of the season. Inspired by a Mediterranean escape, I combined fresh herbs, zesty citrus, and succulent shrimp for a dish that sings of sunshine and good times.
Ingredients
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon sea salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
Zest of 1 lemon
Zest of 1 lime
Wooden skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes)
Instructions
Begin by preparing the marinade that will elevate your shrimp to new heights. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lime juice, minced garlic, smoked paprika, sea salt, black pepper, parsley, cilantro, and the vibrant zests of lemon and lime. The moment you take a whiff, you’ll feel transported to a sun-kissed beach.
Next, add the shrimp to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Allow them to soak in the flavors for at least 30 minutes, or even better, refrigerate for an hour. This step is crucial as it infuses the shrimp with a burst of flavor.
While the shrimp marinates, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using wooden skewers, ensure they have been soaked in water—this prevents them from burning. Once the grill is hot, it’s time to assemble your skewers. Thread the marinated shrimp onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.
Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. You’ll know they’re ready when they curl slightly and develop beautiful grill marks. This process transforms them from simple seafood to a stunning dish that looks as fabulous as it tastes.
Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a minute. Serve these charred citrus herb shrimp skewers with a side of fresh salad or over a bed of fluffy couscous, and don’t forget to drizzle any remaining marinade on top for an extra kick of flavor.
As you gather around the table, the colorful skewers are bound to steal the show. Each bite is a burst of flavor, and the laughter shared over this dish will linger long after the last shrimp has been devoured. Enjoy the taste of summer with every mouthful!