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Garlic Herb Shrimp Kebabs

When you want something that feels like a fancy grilled dinner but only have 20 minutes to spare.

Garlic Herb Shrimp Kebabs
Total
18 min
Prep
10 min
Cook
8 min
Serves
4
Difficulty
easy
Calories
234
Cost
$$$/serving

If you're staring at the pantry and can't decide what to make, these shrimp kebabs are your secret weapon. They provide that hit of smoky, charred flavor you crave from a grill without requiring you to actually fire up the backyard pit. The garlic and herb rub creates a savory crust that keeps the shrimp incredibly juicy and tender. It's the ultimate low-effort, high-reward dinner for those nights when your brain is fried but your taste buds aren't. You can serve these over quick couscous or just grab some crusty bread to soak up the juices—it’s fast, impressive, and hits that savory craving perfectly.

Ingredients

  • 1.5 lb large shrimp — peeled and deveined
  • 4 unit garlic — minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 0.5 tsp red pepper flakes — optional for a kick
  • 1 pinch salt
  • 1 pinch black pepper

Method

  1. 1 Preheat your oven or grill to 400°F. If using a grill, clean the grates well.
  2. 2 In a large mixing bowl, combine the shrimp, olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3 Toss everything together until the shrimp are evenly coated in the herb mixture.
  4. 4 Thread 3-4 pieces of shrimp onto small skewers (or just cook them in a single layer on a sheet pan).
  5. 5 Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the shrimp are opaque and slightly charred on the edges.
  6. 6 Remove from heat and serve immediately with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.

Variations

  • Extra Zesty — Add 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon zest to the marinade for an extra bright, citrusy punch.
  • No-Cook Option — Sauté the shrimp in a heavy skillet with the same spice mix for 5 minutes over medium-high heat if you don't want to turn on the oven.

Notes

Don't overcook the shrimp! They are done as soon as they turn pink and firm. If you skip the skewers, just roast them in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Equipment that helps

  • Grill or Oven — Provides even heat for that signature charred finish.
  • Skewers — Makes serving easy and gives it that authentic kebab look.

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