Citrus Basil Grilled Shrimp Skewers
Elevate your summer grilling game with these Citrus Basil Grilled Shrimp Skewers! Fresh, zesty, and infused with the aromatic flavors of garlic and vibrant basil, these skewers make a perfect appetizer or main dish for any outdoor gathering. This recipe is versatile; feel free to substitute lime juice for lemon or swap in your favorite fresh herbs such as chives or parsley. The sweet and tangy honey mustard marinade adds a delightful touch, ensuring each bite of succulent shrimp is bursting with flavor. Just let them marinate for a quick 45 minutes, and they’ll be ready to take center stage on your grill.
4
Servings
80
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
lemon juice
1/4 cup (freshly squeezed)
olive oil
2 tablespoons (extra virgin)
honey mustard
1 tablespoon (or mix honey with Dijon mustard)
garlic cloves
2 (minced)
lemon peel
1 1/2 teaspoons (finely grated)
peeled extra-large shrimp
1 lb (tails removed)
salt
to taste
basil leaves
6 (cut into julienne strips)
Instructions
1
In a medium bowl, combine the lemon juice, olive oil, honey mustard, minced garlic, and finely grated lemon peel. Whisk until well blended.
2
Add the peeled shrimp to the marinade and gently toss to ensure they are fully coated.
3
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 45 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4
While the shrimp marinate, preheat your barbecue grill on high and lightly grease the grill grates to prevent sticking.
5
After marinating, thread the shrimp onto skewers, ensuring they are snug but not overcrowded. Lightly sprinkle both sides with salt to enhance the flavor.
6
Place the skewers on the preheated grill and cook for approximately 1.5 to 2 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
7
Once done, remove the skewers from the grill and transfer them to a serving platter. Immediately sprinkle the fresh basil strips over the top for added fragrance and color.
Nutrition Information
3.5g
Fat
2g
Carbs
10g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Citrus Basil Grilled Shrimp Skewers?
They are succulent, extra-large shrimp marinated in a zesty lemon, honey mustard, and garlic mixture, then grilled and topped with fresh julienned basil.
How long should I marinate the shrimp?
You should marinate the shrimp for approximately 45 minutes in the refrigerator to allow the flavors to meld properly.
Can I substitute the lemon juice in this recipe?
Yes, you can easily substitute lime juice for lemon juice if you prefer a different citrus profile.
What can I use if I do not have fresh basil?
While basil is recommended, you can swap it for other fresh herbs like chives or parsley.
How many calories are in one serving?
There are approximately 80 calories per serving.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe is designed to serve 4 people.
How long do the shrimp need to cook on the grill?
Cook the skewers for about 1.5 to 2 minutes on each side.
How do I know when the grilled shrimp are done?
The shrimp are done when they turn pink and become opaque all the way through.
What if I don't have honey mustard on hand?
You can make a quick substitute by mixing honey with Dijon mustard.
Should I leave the tails on the shrimp?
The recipe calls for peeled extra-large shrimp with the tails removed.
What grill temperature is recommended?
Preheat your barbecue grill on a high setting for the best results.
How much protein is in this dish?
Each serving contains 10 grams of protein.
What is the fat content of this recipe?
Each serving contains 3.5 grams of fat.
Are these shrimp skewers low in carbohydrates?
Yes, they are quite low in carbs, containing only 2 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
How should I prepare the basil for topping?
The basil leaves should be cut into thin julienne strips.
What are the main ingredients in the marinade?
The marinade consists of lemon juice, olive oil, honey mustard, minced garlic, and finely grated lemon peel.
How do I prevent the shrimp from sticking to the grill?
It is important to lightly grease the grill grates before placing the skewers on the heat.
When should I add the salt to the shrimp?
Lightly sprinkle both sides of the skewers with salt after threading them, just before they go onto the grill.
Can this recipe be used as an appetizer?
Absolutely, these skewers make a perfect appetizer or a light main dish for outdoor gatherings.
Is fresh lemon peel necessary?
Yes, 1 1/2 teaspoons of finely grated lemon peel adds a concentrated citrus aroma to the marinade.
What size shrimp should I buy?
This recipe specifically calls for extra-large shrimp (1 lb).
How much garlic is needed?
You will need 2 garlic cloves, minced.
Is olive oil required for the marinade?
The recipe suggests using 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil.
Should the shrimp be covered while marinating?
Yes, cover the bowl with plastic wrap while it sits in the refrigerator.
Can I use wooden skewers?
Yes, but if using wooden skewers, it is standard practice to soak them in water beforehand to prevent burning on the high-heat grill.
How many basil leaves do I need?
The recipe calls for 6 basil leaves.
Is there any fiber in this recipe?
The nutritional data indicates the fiber content is null or negligible.
When is the best time to serve these?
These are ideal for summer grilling and outdoor cooking events.
How should I arrange the shrimp on the skewers?
Thread them so they are snug against each other but not overcrowded.
When do I apply the fresh basil?
Immediately sprinkle the basil strips over the shrimp once they are transferred to a serving platter after grilling.