Garlic grilled shrimp with herbs has become my absolute go-to for a quick and incredibly flavorful weeknight dinner. I remember the first time I tried making it; the aroma of garlic and fresh herbs hitting the hot grill was simply intoxicating. It’s amazing how simple ingredients can transform into something so special. This recipe is perfect for when you want a healthy, delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. If you’ve ever wondered how to grill shrimp with garlic and herbs and get that perfect tender, juicy bite, you’ve come to the right place. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Garlic Grilled Shrimp with Herbs
This recipe is a winner for so many reasons! You’ll adore the incredible flavor and how easy it is to whip up.
- Amazing Taste: The combination of garlic, lemon, and mixed herbs creates a vibrant, savory flavor that’s simply irresistible.
- Super Quick Prep: With minimal chopping and marinating time, you can have this on the table in under 30 minutes.
- Healthy Choice: Shrimp is packed with lean protein, and grilling is a healthy cooking method, making this a guilt-free meal.
- Budget-Friendly: It’s an economical way to enjoy a delicious seafood dinner without breaking the bank.
- Family Approved: Even picky eaters love the tender, garlicky goodness of these shrimp.
- Versatile Meal: Enjoy these grilled shrimp with garlic and herbs as a light lunch or a hearty dinner main.
- Effortless Grilling: Perfect for outdoor gatherings or even a quick weeknight grill, this recipe makes grilling shrimp a breeze.
- Delicious Flavor Profile: The way the herbs complement the garlic in this grilled shrimp with garlic and herbs is truly special.
Ingredients for Garlic Grilled Shrimp with Herbs
Gathering the right garlic grilled shrimp herb marinade ingredients is key to unlocking the incredible flavor in this recipe. These simple components come together to create a vibrant dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined – I always opt for large shrimp for the best texture and juiciness. Make sure they’re fully deveined for a cleaner bite.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – This is our base for the marinade, helping to carry all those delicious flavors and prevent sticking on the grill.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced – The star of the show! Freshly minced garlic provides that intense, savory punch we’re looking for.
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice – A little acidity from the lemon brightens everything up and tenderizes the shrimp beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano – Oregano brings a classic, slightly earthy flavor that pairs wonderfully with seafood.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme – Thyme adds a subtle, aromatic note that complements the garlic and lemon.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary – Rosemary offers a more potent, pine-like aroma that really elevates the grilled flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt – Essential for bringing out all the other flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper – A touch of pepper adds a mild heat and depth.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) – A sprinkle of fresh parsley at the end adds a pop of color and a hint of fresh, herbaceous brightness.
How to Make Garlic Grilled Shrimp with Herbs
- Step 1: In a medium bowl, combine the shrimp, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, dried oregano, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper. Give everything a good toss to ensure each piece of shrimp is coated in the flavorful marinade. This is where the magic begins for our garlicky grilled shrimp recipe herbs.
- Step 2: Let the shrimp hang out and soak up all those delicious flavors. Marinate them for at least 15 minutes at room temperature. If your kitchen is warm or you’re multitasking, you can pop them in the refrigerator for up to 30 minutes. This marinating time is crucial for infusing that deep garlic and herb flavor.
- Step 3: Get your grill ready! Preheat your grill to a medium-high heat. You want it nice and hot so the shrimp cook quickly and get those lovely grill marks without overcooking.
- Step 4: Now it’s time for the grill. You can thread the marinated shrimp onto skewers if you like, which makes them super easy to handle. Alternatively, you can place them directly onto the grill grates. Either way works beautifully for this garlicky grilled shrimp recipe herbs.
- Step 5: Grill the shrimp for just 2-3 minutes per side. Keep an eye on them! They cook fast. You’ll know they’re ready when they turn pink and opaque. Overcooking is the enemy of tender shrimp, so watch them closely.
- Step 6: Once perfectly cooked, remove the shrimp from the grill. Give them a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and a hint of fresh herbiness.
- Step 7: Serve these amazing garlic grilled shrimp with herbs immediately while they’re hot off the grill. They’re fantastic on their own or served with your favorite sides.

Pro Tips for the Best Garlic Grilled Shrimp with Herbs
Want to elevate your garlic grilled shrimp? I’ve picked up a few tricks that make all the difference.
- Don’t overcrowd the grill. Give your shrimp space so they cook evenly and get those nice char marks instead of steaming.
- Use fresh herbs if you have them! While dried herbs work great in the marinade, tossing in some fresh chopped parsley, cilantro, or dill at the very end adds a vibrant, fresh finish.
- Pat your shrimp dry before marinating. This helps the marinade cling better and promotes better searing on the grill.
- Consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to your marinade for a subtle kick. It really complements the garlic and herb flavors.
What’s the secret to perfect garlic grilled shrimp with herbs?
The secret is a balance of fresh garlic, bright lemon, and aromatic herbs, plus not overcooking! Using the right best grilled shrimp garlic herb seasoning blend and letting the shrimp marinate properly ensures every bite is packed with flavor.
Can I make garlic grilled shrimp with herbs ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate the shrimp ahead of time! Combine all the marinade ingredients with the shrimp and refrigerate for up to 30 minutes before grilling. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
How do I avoid common mistakes with garlic grilled shrimp with herbs?
The biggest mistake is overcooking, which makes shrimp tough. Watch them closely – they cook in minutes! Also, ensure your grill is hot enough before adding the shrimp to prevent sticking.
Best Ways to Serve Garlic Grilled Shrimp with Herbs
These flavorful garlic grilled shrimp with herbs are so versatile, they’re perfect for almost any meal! They shine as a light lunch, but I especially love them as a main course for garlic and herb grilled shrimp for dinner.
- For a light and refreshing meal, serve them over a bed of mixed greens with a simple vinaigrette. Add some cherry tomatoes and cucumber for a delightful salad.
- Pair them with grilled corn on the cob and a side of quinoa or rice for a satisfying and easy weeknight dinner. The smoky sweetness of the corn is a perfect match.
- Consider serving them alongside grilled vegetables like asparagus or zucchini. The tender, herb-infused shrimp really complement the slightly charred veggies.

Nutrition Facts for Garlic Grilled Shrimp with Herbs
Here’s a look at the nutritional breakdown per serving for this delicious dish. These numbers are based on the recipe serving four people.
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 250mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
How to Store and Reheat Garlic Grilled Shrimp with Herbs
Once your delicious garlic grilled shrimp with herbs have cooled completely, proper storage is key to maintaining their flavor and texture. I like to place them in an airtight container. You can store leftover shrimp in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. If you find yourself with a larger batch, freezing is a great option. Wrap the cooled shrimp tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, and they’ll keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, the best way to reheat is gently on the stovetop or in the oven. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can make them rubbery.
Frequently Asked Questions About Garlic Grilled Shrimp with Herbs
What are the best herbs to use with garlic grilled shrimp?
When making this garlic grilled shrimp with herbs, you can really play with different herbs! While oregano, thyme, and rosemary are fantastic, don’t shy away from fresh parsley, cilantro, or dill. A mix of fresh herbs adds a wonderful brightness that complements the garlic beautifully. This flexibility makes it easy to adapt into a simple garlic grilled shrimp herb recipe based on what you have.
Can I grill shrimp without skewers?
Absolutely! If you don’t have skewers or prefer not to use them, you can grill the shrimp directly on the grill grates. Just make sure the grates are clean and well-oiled to prevent sticking. This method works perfectly for our garlicky grilled shrimp recipe herbs, giving you those coveted grill marks.
How do I ensure my garlic grilled shrimp with herbs are juicy and not tough?
The key to juicy shrimp is to not overcook them! They cook very quickly, usually just 2-3 minutes per side. Watch for them to turn pink and opaque. Marinating them with lemon juice also helps to tenderize them, ensuring a perfect bite every time for your garlic grilled shrimp with herbs.
Can I add other vegetables to grill with the shrimp?
Definitely! Grilling vegetables alongside your shrimp is a fantastic idea. Bell peppers, onions, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes all grill beautifully. Toss them with a little olive oil and seasoning, and add them to the grill before or with the shrimp, depending on their cooking time. This makes for a complete, flavorful meal.
Variations of Garlic Grilled Shrimp with Herbs You Can Try
Once you’ve mastered the basic garlic grilled shrimp with herbs, there are so many fun ways to switch things up! I love experimenting with different flavor profiles and cooking methods to keep things exciting.
- Spicy Kick: For a bit of heat, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a finely minced jalapeño to your marinade. This gives you a delicious spicy garlic grilled shrimp with herbs that’s perfect for those who like a little warmth.
- Citrus Twist: Enhance the brightness by adding a little orange zest along with the lemon juice. Or, swap the lemon juice entirely for lime juice for a zesty, tropical flair. This creates a wonderful lemon garlic grilled shrimp with herbs variation that’s incredibly refreshing.
- Creamy Garlic Herb Butter Sauce: After grilling, toss the shrimp in a quick garlic herb butter sauce made with melted butter, minced garlic, and your favorite fresh herbs. This adds a decadent richness to your grilled shrimp.
- Broiled Instead of Grilled: No grill? No problem! You can achieve similar results by broiling the marinated shrimp. Place them on a baking sheet under a hot broiler for just a few minutes per side until cooked through.
Amazing Garlic Grilled Shrimp Herbs 2 Ways
- Total Time: 21 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This recipe for garlic grilled shrimp with herbs delivers a flavorful and simple meal. Enjoy juicy, herb-infused shrimp grilled to perfection, a fantastic option for any dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine shrimp, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, oregano, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat the shrimp evenly.
- Let the shrimp marinate for at least 15 minutes at room temperature, or up to 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Thread the marinated shrimp onto skewers if desired, or place them directly on the grill grates.
- Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque.
- Remove the grilled shrimp from the grill and garnish with fresh chopped parsley.
- Serve immediately.
Notes
- For extra flavor, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade.
- Ensure shrimp are not overcooked to maintain tenderness.
- Any combination of fresh herbs can be used for this garlic grilled shrimp recipe.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 ounces
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 160mg









