There’s something truly irresistible about the bright, zesty scent of lemongrass mingling with succulent shrimp sizzling on the grill—it instantly transports me to a sunny seaside escape. After a long day craving fresh, homemade flavors that don’t keep me in the kitchen forever, I discovered this Easy Lemongrass Shrimp Skewers recipe and it’s been a game-changer. The marinade is a perfect balance of citrusy, garlicky goodness, and the shrimp cook up tender and juicy in no time. Whether you’re hosting a casual backyard dinner or simply want to elevate your weeknight meals, these skewers deliver bold flavor without the fuss. Let me show you how simple it is to bring a taste of summer to your table any time of year!
Why choose Easy Lemongrass Shrimp Skewers?
Simplicity meets bold, fresh flavors in this recipe that requires minimal prep but delivers maximum taste. Juicy shrimp soak up the vibrant lemongrass marinade, creating an irresistible citrusy, garlicky punch. Quick cooking time means dinner’s ready fast—perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, these skewers are wonderfully versatile, great for grilling or broiling, and always a crowd-pleaser at any gathering!
Easy Lemongrass Shrimp Skewers Ingredients
For the Marinade
• Fresh lemongrass stalks – finely chopped to release that bright, citrusy aroma essential for Easy Lemongrass Shrimp Skewers.
• Garlic cloves – minced to add a savory depth that balances the freshness of lemongrass.
• Lime juice – freshly squeezed for a tangy kick that tenderizes and brightens the shrimp.
• Fish sauce – the secret umami boost that enhances the overall flavor without overpowering.
• Brown sugar – just a touch to mellow the acidity and bring warmth to the marinade.
• Fresh cilantro – chopped to sprinkle on top for a burst of herbal brightness at serving.
For the Shrimp Skewers
• Large shrimp (peeled and deveined) – the star ingredient, soaking up the marinade for juicy, flavorful bites.
• Bamboo skewers – soaked in water beforehand to prevent burning on the grill or broiler.
• Olive oil – brushed lightly on shrimp to ensure a perfect char and keep them from sticking.
How to Make Easy Lemongrass Shrimp Skewers
- Combine: In a bowl, whisk lemongrass, garlic, lime juice, fish sauce, brown sugar, and olive oil until sugar dissolves and mixture smells bright and citrusy.
- Marinate: Add shrimp and toss to coat thoroughly. Cover bowl and marinate in fridge for 15–30 minutes until shrimp turn opaque and fragrant.
- Preheat: Heat grill or broiler to medium-high (about 400°F). Brush grate or pan with olive oil to prevent sticking and ensure perfect char.
- Thread: Thread shrimp onto soaked skewers, leaving space between each piece for even cooking and a perfect golden char along the edges.
- Grill: Grill skewers over direct heat for 2–3 minutes per side, flipping once. Cook until shrimp curl slightly and show pink, opaque flesh with golden char.
- Rest: Transfer skewers to a plate and let rest 2 minutes. This helps redistribute juices and keeps shrimp tender and flavorful.
Optional: Sprinkle chopped cilantro and lime zest for a fresh finish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Easy Lemongrass Shrimp Skewers
- Marinate Just Right: Avoid over-marinating shrimp more than 30 minutes to prevent a mushy texture; the lemongrass-infused flavor peaks perfectly in this time.
- Prep Skewers Wisely: Soak bamboo skewers for at least 30 minutes before grilling to stop them from burning and ensure safe cooking.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Leave space between shrimp on skewers so heat circulates evenly, creating a golden char without steaming the shrimp.
- High Heat is Key: Cook over medium-high heat for quick searing that locks in juices and preserves the shrimp’s tender bite in your Easy Lemongrass Shrimp Skewers.
- Rest Before Serving: Let skewers rest a couple of minutes off the heat to allow juices to redistribute, giving juicy, flavorful shrimp every time.
How to Store and Freeze Easy Lemongrass Shrimp Skewers
Refrigeration: Store cooked shrimp skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep them tightly sealed to retain moisture and flavor.
Freezing: To freeze, place skewers in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat on a grill or in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until warmed through for your Easy Lemongrass Shrimp Skewers.
Marinade Storage: If you have leftover marinade, store it in the fridge for up to 5 days. It’s great for drizzling on grilled vegetables or additional seafood!
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Lemongrass Shrimp Skewers are fantastic for meal prep aficionados! You can marinate the shrimp up to 24 hours in advance, allowing them to soak up all the zesty flavors of the marinade. Simply combine your lemongrass, garlic, lime juice, fish sauce, brown sugar, and olive oil, then toss in the shrimp. After marinating, store the shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For optimal quality, thread the shrimp onto the soaked bamboo skewers right before grilling or broiling. When you’re ready to cook, just grill them for 2–3 minutes per side and enjoy tender, succulent shrimp skewers with minimal effort!
Easy Lemongrass Shrimp Skewers Variations
Get creative with these skewers and elevate your cooking experience by adding personal twists and flavor enhancements!
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Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the marinade for a fiery heat that elevates every bite.
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Veggie Boost: Mix in colorful vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or red onions on skewers for added flavor and nutrition. They’ll caramelize beautifully alongside the shrimp.
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Coconut Infusion: Use coconut milk in place of fish sauce for a creamy, tropical flavor that pairs deliciously with the lemongrass and shrimp. It’s like a mini-vacation on your plate!
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Herb Swap: Swap cilantro with fresh basil or mint for a different herbal note. Each herb will impart its own unique essence to the skewers.
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Citrus Variety: Experiment with different citrus juices, like grapefruit or orange, for a sweet and surprising twist that tingles the taste buds.
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Garlic Lover’s Dream: For those who adore garlic, increase minced garlic to 4 cloves in the marinade. It deepens the richness and adds an irresistible aroma.
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Honey-Sweetened: Instead of brown sugar, drizzle some honey into the marinade for a subtle floral sweetness that caramelizes as you grill.
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Grilled Pineapple: Add pineapple chunks to the skewers for a sweet contrast that grills beautifully and complements the savory shrimp.
Each variation can take your Easy Lemongrass Shrimp Skewers to the next level! Feel free to mix and match for a dish that’s uniquely yours.
What to Serve with Easy Lemongrass Shrimp Skewers?
Elevate your meal with delightful sides that complement the fresh, zesty flavors of these shrimp skewers!
- Jasmine Rice: Light and fluffy, jasmine rice absorbs the flavorful marinade drippings making each bite a taste of paradise.
- Grilled Vegetables: Vibrant, charred bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant add colorful texture; plus, their smokiness enhances the shrimp’s brightness.
- Cucumber Salad: A refreshing mix of crisp cucumbers, lime, and herbs creates a perfect contrast, balancing the rich seafood flavors.
- Honey Lime Quinoa: This nutty quinoa with a drizzle of honey and lime harmonizes excellently, pairing sweet notes with the shrimp’s zesty profile.
- Spicy Dipping Sauce: A simple chili-lime sauce livens up the skewers, adding an extra kick to each juicy bite—perfect for adventurous pallets!
- Mango Salsa: Fresh and bright, a mango salsa with red onion, jalapeño, and cilantro adds a tropical twist that pairs beautifully with your skewers.
- Mint Lemonade: Refreshing and tangy, this drink is an ideal cooler that complements your dinner’s bright summer flavors.
- Coconut Rice Pudding: For dessert, a creamy coconut rice pudding adds a sweet finish, balancing zest with luscious creaminess—simply divine!
Easy Lemongrass Shrimp Skewers Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my shrimp are fresh and ideal for these skewers?
Look for shrimp that are firm, translucent, and have a mild ocean scent—not fishy. Avoid shrimp with dark spots all over or an ammonia smell, which indicate spoilage.
Can I prepare the shrimp skewers in advance and store them?
Absolutely! Marinate the shrimp for up to 30 minutes and keep them refrigerated until ready to grill. Cooked skewers store best in an airtight container in the fridge for 3 to 4 days to maintain their juicy flavor.
What’s the best way to freeze Easy Lemongrass Shrimp Skewers?
Freeze cooked skewers by first placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, about 1 hour. Then transfer to a freezer-safe bag, squeezing out excess air. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the grill or oven at 350°F for 10 minutes until heated through.
Why did my shrimp turn rubbery or tough after cooking?
Overcooking is a common culprit. Shrimp cook very quickly, usually 2–3 minutes per side on medium-high heat. Also, avoid marinating longer than 30 minutes—excess acid can break down the flesh and make it mushy or rubbery.
Are these skewers safe for pets or people with allergies?
Shrimp are a common allergen, so they’re not safe for anyone with shellfish allergies and should be kept away from pets like dogs and cats. If you have allergies at your table, consider swapping shrimp for chicken or firm tofu marinated in the same lemongrass mixture for a delicious alternative.
Easy Lemongrass Shrimp Skewers: Juicy Bites Packed with Flavor
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a bowl, whisk lemongrass, garlic, lime juice, fish sauce, brown sugar, and olive oil until sugar dissolves and mixture smells bright and citrusy.
- Add shrimp and toss to coat thoroughly. Cover bowl and marinate in fridge for 15–30 minutes until shrimp turn opaque and fragrant.
- Heat grill or broiler to medium-high (about 400°F). Brush grate or pan with olive oil to prevent sticking and ensure perfect char.
- Thread shrimp onto soaked skewers, leaving space between each piece for even cooking.
- Grill skewers over direct heat for 2–3 minutes per side, flipping once. Cook until shrimp curl slightly and show pink, opaque flesh.
- Transfer skewers to a plate and let rest for 2 minutes before serving.
