Grilled Rosemary Shrimp

Grilled Rosemary Shrimp is a simple yet elegant dish bursting with herby, smoky flavor and a touch of citrus. Fresh shrimp are marinated with olive oil, garlic, lemon, and rosemary, then grilled to perfection for a juicy, aromatic bite. Perfect as an appetizer, main dish, or part of a surf-and-turf platter, this recipe is fast, flavorful, and ideal for outdoor cooking.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy—ready in under 30 minutes
• Light, fresh, and packed with flavor
• The rosemary adds a fragrant, woodsy twist
• Shrimp grills in just minutes
• Perfect for summer entertaining or weeknight dinners
• Naturally low-carb, gluten-free, and high-protein
• Versatile: serve with salad, rice, pasta, or grilled veggies
• Great as an appetizer or main course
• Elegant enough for guests, easy enough for any day
• Can be grilled on skewers or in a grill basket

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Raw shrimp (peeled and deveined, tails on or off)
• Fresh rosemary sprigs (whole for skewers or chopped for marinade)
• Olive oil
• Lemon juice and zest
• Garlic (minced)
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Optional: red pepper flakes or a splash of white wine

directions

1. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice and zest, garlic, chopped rosemary, salt, and pepper.
2. Add shrimp to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for 15–30 minutes.
3. If using rosemary sprigs as skewers, strip the leaves from the bottom half and soak in water for 10 minutes. Otherwise, use metal or soaked wooden skewers.
4. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
5. Thread shrimp onto skewers or place in a grill basket.
6. Grill shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side, or until pink, opaque, and slightly charred.
7. Remove from grill and serve with a squeeze of fresh lemon.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Marinate time: 15–30 minutes
Cook time: 6 minutes
Total time: 30–40 minutes

Variations

• Add crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
• Use lime juice instead of lemon for a tropical twist
• Mix in a bit of honey or maple syrup for sweetness
• Marinate with white wine for a richer flavor profile
• Serve with a garlic-herb butter or dipping sauce
• Add vegetables (like zucchini or cherry tomatoes) to the skewers
• Toss cooked shrimp in pasta or serve over a fresh green salad

storage/reheating

Store leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave for 20–30 seconds until just warmed. Avoid overcooking during reheating to maintain tenderness. Leftovers are also great served cold in salads or wraps. Freezing after cooking is not recommended for best texture.

FAQs

What kind of shrimp should I use?

Large or jumbo raw shrimp work best for grilling, as they’re easier to skewer and less likely to overcook.

Can I use dried rosemary instead of fresh?

Fresh rosemary is preferred for its aroma and flavor, but if using dried, use about 1/3 the amount and mix into the marinade.

Do I have to marinate the shrimp?

Marinating adds great flavor, but even 10–15 minutes makes a difference. You can skip it in a pinch and season just before grilling.

Can I use rosemary sprigs as skewers?

Yes! Strip the lower leaves and soak the woody sprigs in water to prevent burning. They infuse a subtle rosemary flavor as the shrimp cook.

How do I know when shrimp are done?

Shrimp turn pink and opaque and curl into a “C” shape when done. Avoid overcooking, which makes them rubbery.

Can I grill shrimp without skewers?

Yes, a grill basket works great. Just make sure the shrimp don’t fall through the grates.

Can I cook these indoors?

Absolutely. Use a grill pan or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat and follow the same cook time.

What can I serve with grilled rosemary shrimp?

Serve with rice, grilled vegetables, crusty bread, pasta, salad, or couscous for a complete meal.

Can I prep this recipe ahead?

Yes, you can marinate the shrimp a few hours in advance. Don’t let them sit too long or the lemon juice may start to “cook” them.

Are grilled shrimp healthy?

Yes—shrimp are low in fat, high in protein, and packed with nutrients. This recipe uses heart-healthy olive oil and fresh herbs.

Conclusion

Grilled Rosemary Shrimp is a fast, fresh, and flavorful dish that brings out the best in simple ingredients. The bold aroma of rosemary, the brightness of lemon, and the smoky char from the grill make these shrimp irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a summer cookout or just want a quick weeknight meal, this dish is guaranteed to impress with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

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