Sizzling summer evenings call for these mouthwatering Mediterranean grilled shrimp kabobs that dance with vibrant flavors and irresistible charm.
Fresh, succulent shrimp marinated in zesty herbs and spices promise a culinary adventure straight from coastal kitchens.
Every skewer bursts with Mediterranean sunshine, promising a taste of seaside relaxation.
Tangy herbs and olive oil infuse each morsel with rich, complex notes that transport you to Greek and Turkish shores.
The grill works its magic, caramelizing edges and creating a smoky depth that makes these kabobs impossible to resist.
Bold, simple ingredients come together in a celebration of fresh seafood and sun-drenched traditions.
Serve these kabobs and watch as your dinner table comes alive with Mediterranean spirit and delicious excitement.
How to Grill Mediterranean Shrimp Kabobs
Marinade Preparation Gathering herbs, spices, and bright citrus ingredients to create a zesty coating that will transform simple shrimp into a Mediterranean dream.
Shrimp Massage Gently coating each plump seafood morsel with the vibrant marinade, ensuring every curve gets kissed by delicious flavors. Let the shrimp relax and absorb the seasoning in the cool refrigerator.
Skewer Strategy Carefully threading succulent shrimp onto wooden spears soaked in water, arranging them like ocean treasures ready for their fiery journey.
Grill Magic Setting up your cooking surface with precise heat, whether outdoor flames or indoor griddle, creating the perfect golden-kissed exterior while keeping the interior tender and juicy.
Final Flourish Removing the shrimp at the peak of perfection, allowing their beautiful coral color to shine, then finishing with a bright splash of fresh citrus to awaken all the Mediterranean-inspired flavors.
Creative Twists on Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp Kabobs
Reserve a portion of marinade before adding raw shrimp to use as a fresh, uncontaminated sauce for drizzling after grilling.
Space shrimp slightly apart on skewers to ensure even cooking and perfect caramelization without overcrowding.
Keep raw shrimp refrigerated and use within 1-2 days of purchase for maximum freshness and optimal taste quality.
Use high-heat resistant metal skewers instead of wooden ones for more consistent heat distribution and easier handling during cooking.
Easily transform this recipe by replacing shrimp with chicken, scallops, or firm white fish like halibut for delicious Mediterranean-style protein variations.
Presentation Tips for Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp Kabobs
Coastal Dinner Party Delight: Serve these zesty kabobs as a stunning centerpiece for a Mediterranean-themed evening with friends, complemented by vibrant salads and crusty bread.
Healthy Protein-Packed Meal: Pair the shrimp with quinoa or cauliflower rice, adding roasted vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini for a nutritious and balanced plate.
Fresh Appetizer Spread: Create an impressive appetizer board by arranging the kabobs alongside tzatziki, hummus, olives, and warm pita triangles for a delightful sharing experience.
Beachside Lunch Sensation: Pack these grilled kabobs in a cooler for a seaside picnic, bringing along some crisp white wine or sparkling water to enhance the fresh seafood flavors.
Prep, Store, and Plan with Mediterranean Shrimp Kabobs
Quick Refrigeration Strategy: Store cooked shrimp kabobs in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking, keeping them fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days without compromising taste or texture.
Smart Freezing Technique: Wrap individual shrimp kabobs tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap, then place inside a freezer-safe bag to maintain quality for up to 2 weeks; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Efficient Reheating Method: Warm leftover kabobs gently in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes, which helps retain moisture and prevents rubbery shrimp texture; avoid microwave reheating to maintain optimal flavor and tenderness.
Strategic Meal Prep Approach: Prepare marinade and skewer shrimp up to 24 hours in advance, storing them covered in the refrigerator to maximize convenience and minimize day-of cooking preparation time.
Quick Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 6 minutes
Total Time: 36 minutes
Calories: 365 kcal
Servings: 5
What Goes into Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp Kabobs
For Protein:
Shrimp: Select large, fresh shrimp with firm texture and sweet ocean smell, ensuring they're sustainably sourced and peeled for easy grilling.
For Flavor Enhancers:
Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Lemon Zest: Bright, fruity base that adds richness and tangy citrus notes, creating a vibrant Mediterranean essence.
Garlic: Provides robust, pungent undertones that complement seafood and amplify overall taste profile.
Parsley: Fresh herb that brings green, clean brightness and subtle peppery undertones to the marinade.
For Spice and Seasoning Blend:
Oregano, Paprika, Coriander, Red Pepper Flakes, Kosher Salt: Dynamic spice combination delivering warmth, smokiness, earthy depth, gentle heat, and perfect seasoning balance, transforming simple shrimp into a complex, mouthwatering dish.
Tools You’ll Use for Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp Kabobs
Small mixing bowls: Perfect for preparing marinade and separating portions.
Large mixing bowl: Spacious container for coating shrimp with marinade.
Bamboo skewers: Essential for threading and grilling shrimp evenly.
Paper towels: Used for patting shrimp dry before seasoning.
Gas grill or cast-iron pan: Primary cooking surface for achieving delicious char and flavor.
Tongs: Helpful for safely handling and flipping shrimp skewers.
Measuring spoons: Precise tools for accurate marinade ingredients.
Serving platter: Attractive dish for presenting grilled shrimp kabobs.
Mediterranean grilled shrimp kabobs showcase succulent seafood marinated in zesty herbs and spices. Grilled to perfection, these skewers deliver a delightful blend of Mediterranean flavors you’ll savor with each tasty bite.
Ingredients
Scale
2 lbs (907 g) shrimp, large, peeled and deveined
⅓ cup (79 ml) extra virgin olive oil
4 garlic cloves, minced
¼ cup (15 g) parsley, fresh, chopped
1 tsp oregano
1 tsp paprika
½ tsp coriander
½ tsp red pepper flakes
Kosher salt
Zest of 2 lemons
Instructions
Marinade Preparation: Blend all marinade ingredients in a mixing bowl, setting aside a portion for later drizzling.
Shrimp Preparation: Thoroughly dry shrimp with paper towels, season with salt, and transfer to a large mixing bowl.
Marinating Process: Pour marinade over shrimp, gently tossing to ensure complete coverage, then refrigerate for 20-30 minutes to infuse flavors.
Skewer Setup: Soak bamboo skewers in cold water for 30 minutes to prevent burning, then thread 4 shrimp onto each skewer, maintaining even spacing.
Grill Preheating: Heat gas grill to 275-325 degrees Fahrenheit (135-163 degrees Celsius), lightly oil grates to prevent sticking.
Cooking Method: Grill shrimp kabobs for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn opaque white, alternatively use a hot griddle or cast-iron skillet for indoor cooking.
Final Touches: Transfer cooked kabobs to a serving platter, drizzle with reserved marinade and fresh lemon juice just before serving.
Notes
Marinate with Care: Limit shrimp marination to 30 minutes maximum to prevent seafood from becoming tough and losing delicate texture.
Prevent Skewer Burn: Always soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to avoid dangerous flame flare-ups and charring.
Watch Cooking Time: Shrimp cook incredibly fast and can quickly become rubbery; 2-3 minutes per side is the perfect window to maintain tender, juicy meat.
Temperature Control: Maintain medium-high heat between 275-325°F to ensure even cooking without scorching the delicate shrimp surface.
Founder, Head Recipe Developer & Cuisine Specialist
Expertise
Recipe Development and Testing, Modern American and European Cuisines, Food Styling and Photography, Culinary Education and Workshops
Education
Johnson & Wales University
Degree: Bachelor of Science in Culinary Arts
Focus: Comprehensive training in classical and modern cooking techniques, kitchen management, and global cuisines.
Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts
Program: Diploma in Pastry Arts
Focus: Specialized education in baking and pastry, emphasizing artisanal bread, confections, and plated desserts.
Michael Reynolds is the founder and head recipe creator at wd-50.com. With over 15 years of experience in the kitchen, he’s spent time working in top restaurants and now focuses on making great food easy for everyone at home.
Michael studied culinary arts at Johnson & Wales University and later trained in pastry at the Auguste Escoffier School. He knows his way around both savory meals and sweet treats.
At wd-50.com, his goal is to help you feel confident in the kitchen, whether you’re trying something new or cooking a favorite dish. He loves using fresh ingredients and simple steps that still bring out big flavors.
Michael Reynolds
Founder, Head Recipe Developer & Cuisine Specialist
Expertise
Recipe Development and Testing, Modern American and European Cuisines, Food Styling and Photography, Culinary Education and Workshops
Education
Johnson & Wales University
Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts
Michael Reynolds is the founder and head recipe creator at wd-50.com. With over 15 years of experience in the kitchen, he’s spent time working in top restaurants and now focuses on making great food easy for everyone at home.
Michael studied culinary arts at Johnson & Wales University and later trained in pastry at the Auguste Escoffier School. He knows his way around both savory meals and sweet treats.
At wd-50.com, his goal is to help you feel confident in the kitchen, whether you’re trying something new or cooking a favorite dish. He loves using fresh ingredients and simple steps that still bring out big flavors.