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Keto Cajun Shrimp Skewers - Spicy, Simple, And Ready Fast

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 pounds large shrimp (16–20 count), peeled and deveined, tails on or off
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (salted or unsalted—see note below)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for extra smokiness)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (reduce or skip if your Cajun blend is salty)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional for garnish)
  • Lemon wedges, for serving
  • Metal skewers or wooden skewers (soaked in water for 20–30 minutes)

Method
 

  1. Prep the skewers: If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 20–30 minutes so they don’t burn. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to help them sear instead of steam.
  2. Mix the marinade: In a large bowl, combine olive oil, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, salt, black pepper, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Stir until it forms a loose paste.
  3. Toss the shrimp: Add the shrimp to the bowl and coat evenly. Marinate for 10–20 minutes at room temperature. Do not marinate for hours—acid can toughen shrimp.
  4. Preheat your cooking surface: Heat a grill or grill pan to medium-high (about 400–450°F). If using an air fryer, preheat to 400°F. Lightly oil the grates or pan.
  5. Skewer the shrimp: Thread 4–6 shrimp per skewer, curling them in a “C” and alternating direction to keep them snug. This helps them cook evenly and not spin on the skewer.
  6. Grill or air fry: Grill/grill pan: Cook 2–3 minutes per side, until shrimp turn pink and opaque with light char marks.
  7. Air fryer: Arrange in a single layer and cook 5–6 minutes, flipping halfway if needed.
  8. Finish and rest: Transfer skewers to a platter. Squeeze a little fresh lemon over the top and sprinkle with chopped parsley. Rest 2 minutes to let juices settle.
  9. Serve: Plate with lemon wedges and your favorite keto sides like cauliflower rice, grilled zucchini, or a crisp green salad.