These Grilled Lemon Garlic Shrimp Skewers offer a burst of flavor and a healthy option for seafood lovers aiming to shed some pounds. Marinated in a zesty blend of lemon, garlic, and olive oil, these succulent shrimp are grilled to perfection, resulting in a dish that's both satisfying and nutritious. With minimal prep and cook time, it's an ideal choice for a quick weeknight meal or a weekend barbecue.

Grilled shrimp skewers have a rich history rooted in coastal cuisines around the world. Dating back centuries, various cultures have embraced seafood as a staple part of their diet, often utilizing grilling techniques to enhance its flavor. The combination of lemon and garlic as a marinade is a timeless pairing, adding brightness and depth to the delicate shrimp. While the exact origins of this specific recipe may be unclear, its enduring popularity speaks to the timeless appeal of simple, healthy, and delicious dishes. As the focus on health and wellness continues to grow, recipes like these grilled lemon garlic shrimp skewers remain a favorite among those seeking both flavor and nutritional value in their meals.

Ingredients:

- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined

- Zest and juice of 1 lemon

- 2 cloves garlic, minced

- 2 tablespoons olive oil

- Salt and pepper to taste

- Wooden skewers, soaked in water

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.

2. In a bowl, mix shrimp with lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Marinate for 15 minutes.

3. Thread shrimp onto skewers.

4. Grill skewers for 2-3 minutes per side or until shrimp is pink and opaque.

5. Serve hot.

Nutrition Value:

1. 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined

  - Calories: Approximately 360 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: 0g

  - Protein: Approximately 84g

  - Fat: Approximately 4g

  - Sodium: Approximately 1130mg

  - Cholesterol: Approximately 590mg

  - Vitamins & Minerals: Shrimp are an excellent source of selenium, vitamin B12, and iodine. They also contain smaller amounts of other nutrients like zinc, phosphorus, and magnesium.

  - Nutritional Benefit: Shrimp is low in fat and calories but high in protein, making it a great choice for those looking to build muscle or maintain a healthy weight. It's also rich in selenium, which has antioxidant properties and supports thyroid function.

2. Zest and juice of 1 lemon:

  - Calories: Approximately 10 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 3g

  - Protein: Approximately 0g

  - Fat: Approximately 0g

  - Sodium: Approximately 1mg

  - Cholesterol: Approximately 0mg

  - Vitamins & Minerals: Lemons are a good source of vitamin C, potassium, and vitamin B6. They also contain small amounts of other vitamins and minerals like folate and thiamin.

  - Nutritional Benefit: Lemon adds flavor to the dish without adding significant calories or fat. It also provides vitamin C, which is important for immune function and skin health.

3. 2 cloves garlic, minced:

  - Calories: Approximately 10 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 2g

  - Protein: Approximately 0g

  - Fat: Approximately 0g

  - Sodium: Approximately 5mg

  - Cholesterol: Approximately 0mg

  - Vitamins & Minerals: Garlic contains small amounts of several vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin B6, manganese, and selenium.

  - Nutritional Benefit: Garlic is known for its potent flavor and various health benefits. It may help lower cholesterol levels, reduce blood pressure, and boost the immune system.

4. 2 tablespoons olive oil:

  - Calories: Approximately 240 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: 0g

  - Protein: 0g

  - Fat: Approximately 28g

  - Sodium: Approximately 0mg

  - Cholesterol: Approximately 0mg

  - Vitamins & Minerals: Olive oil is a good source of monounsaturated fats and contains vitamin E, vitamin K, and small amounts of other nutrients like iron and calcium.

  - Nutritional Benefit: Olive oil is a healthy fat that may help reduce the risk of heart disease and inflammation. It also adds richness to the dish and helps to keep the shrimp moist during grilling.

5. Salt and pepper to taste:

  - Nutritional Benefit: Salt adds flavor to the dish, but it's important to use it in moderation to avoid excessive sodium intake. Pepper adds a hint of spice and contains antioxidants.

6. Wooden skewers, soaked in water:

  - Nutritional Benefit: Wooden skewers are used for grilling and don't contribute any significant nutritional value to the dish. However, soaking them in water helps prevent them from burning during cooking.

Summary of Nutritional Benefits:

This dish is a nutritious option for those looking to maintain a healthy diet while enjoying flavorful meals. It's high in protein from the shrimp, which supports muscle growth and repair. The lemon and garlic add flavor without extra calories, and the olive oil provides healthy fats that are beneficial for heart health. Additionally, the dish is low in carbohydrates, making it suitable for those following low-carb or ketogenic diets. However, it's important to be mindful of portion sizes, particularly for individuals watching their sodium or cholesterol intake.