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Flavorful Grilled Shrimp Skewers with Cilantro Lime Butter

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Quick and easy grilled shrimp skewers brushed with a tangy cilantro lime butter, perfect for busy weeknights or summer gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Wooden or metal skewers (soaked in water if wooden)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (about 1 lime)
  • 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1 teaspoon lime zest
  • 1 small garlic clove, minced (optional)
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Place shrimp in a medium bowl.
  2. Add 2 tablespoons olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to the shrimp. Toss gently to coat evenly. Marinate for 10-15 minutes at room temperature.
  3. In a small bowl, combine softened butter, lime juice, lime zest, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt. Mix until smooth and set aside.
  4. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (about 400°F / 200°C). If using charcoal, wait until coals are covered with gray ash.
  5. Thread 4-5 shrimp onto each skewer, snug but not squished.
  6. Grill skewers for 2-3 minutes per side, flipping once, until shrimp are opaque pink with char marks (total 4-6 minutes).
  7. Brush shrimp generously with cilantro lime butter immediately after grilling.
  8. Serve skewers hot with extra lime wedges if desired.

Notes

Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning. Pat shrimp dry before marinating to ensure good sear. Brush butter after grilling to preserve fresh flavor. Avoid overcooking shrimp to prevent rubbery texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled shrimp, shrimp skewers, cilantro lime butter, quick dinner, summer recipe, easy grilling, seafood