Shrimp Skewers are the ultimate crowd-pleaser for any gathering, whether it’s a summer barbecue or a cozy dinner at home. This recipe combines succulent shrimp marinated in a vibrant blend of spices and herbs, then grilled to perfection on skewers, making for a dish that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious. The juicy shrimp, kissed by the flames, exude a smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with a variety of sides, making this dish an instant favorite.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will absolutely adore this shrimp skewers recipe for its incredible flavor and ease of cooking. The marinade infuses the shrimp with a zesty zing, resulting in a delightful balance of savory and slightly sweet notes. Plus, it’s a quick dish that can be ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or spontaneous gatherings. It’s also a great option for those following a low-carb or high-protein diet, as shrimp are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients.
Tips and Tricks
- Skewering: Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before using to prevent them from burning on the grill.
- Marination: For maximum flavor, allow the shrimp to marinate for at least 15 minutes but not longer than 1 hour, as the acid in the marinade can start to “cook” the shrimp.
- Grill Temperature: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat for the best sear on your shrimp.
- Don’t Crowd the Skewers: Leave a little space between each shrimp on the skewer to ensure even cooking.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking: Shrimp cook quickly, so keep an eye on them. They’re done when they turn opaque and form a “C” shape. Avoid cooking them until they curl tightly.
- Skipping the Marination: Don’t skip marinating the shrimp! It’s where the flavor starts.
- Using Frozen Shrimp: If using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry to avoid excess moisture that can lead to steaming rather than grilling.
Make Ahead Tips
You can marinate the shrimp up to 24 hours in advance. Just keep them in the refrigerator in an airtight container. If skewer assembly is your concern, you can also prepare the skewers ahead of time and store them covered in the fridge for a few hours before grilling.
Recipe Variations
- Herb Variations: Swap the herbs in the marinade for your favorites, such as cilantro or dill, for a different flavor profile.
- Vegetable Additions: Add bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini slices to the skewers for a colorful and nutritious twist.
- Cooking Methods: If you don’t have access to a grill, you can broil the skewers in your oven or use a grill pan on the stovetop.
How to Serve
Serve the shrimp skewers hot off the grill for the best taste. Pair them with a light, refreshing salad or grilled vegetables. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro and a squeeze of lemon juice for an extra touch of brightness. Arrange the skewers on a beautiful platter, perhaps with a side of dipping sauce like garlic aioli or a tangy chimichurri.
Pairing Suggestions
For drink pairings, consider a chilled white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light cocktail like a mojito. Complement your meal with side dishes like quinoa salad or garlic bread, and finish off with a light dessert such as sorbet or fruit salad.
How to Store
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze the cooked shrimp skewers for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then warm them in a skillet over low heat or in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
Equipment Needed
- Grill or grill pan
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
- Bowl for marinating
- Tongs for flipping the skewers
Dietary Adaptations
To make this recipe allergen-friendly, ensure the marinade is free of any allergens like soy sauce (use coconut aminos instead). For a vegan option, you can swap shrimp for firm tofu or mushrooms, marinating them in the same flavorful mix.
Seasonal Adaptations
In spring and summer, you can add seasonal vegetables like asparagus or cherry tomatoes to the skewers. In the cooler months, consider using hearty vegetables such as butternut squash or bell peppers, which can withstand the grilling process.
Cost Breakdown
The estimated cost for this shrimp skewers recipe is around $15 to $20, serving 4 people. If you’re looking to cut costs, consider using smaller shrimp or opting for frozen shrimp, which can be more budget-friendly.
Kitchen Hacks
- Peel shrimp easily by using a paring knife to remove the shell quickly while holding the shrimp in your other hand.
- For a quick marinade, use a zip-top bag. Just add the shrimp and marinade, seal, and shake to coat.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes, but ensure they are fully thawed and drained before marinating.
- How long should I cook the shrimp? Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side until they turn opaque.
- What can I substitute for shrimp? You can use chicken, tofu, or large vegetables like portobello mushrooms for a similar skewering experience.
Shrimp Skewers
Shrimp Skewers are the ultimate crowd-pleaser for any gathering, whether it’s a summer barbecue or a cozy dinner at home. This recipe combines succulent shrimp marinated in a vibrant blend of spices and herbs, then grilled to perfection on skewers, making for a dish that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious.
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
- Wooden or metal skewers
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
- Add the shrimp to the marinade and toss to coat well. Allow to marinate for 15-30 minutes at room temperature.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Thread the marinated shrimp onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece.
- Grill the skewers for 2-3 minutes on each side until the shrimp are opaque and cooked through.
- Remove from the grill and let them rest for a couple of minutes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro and serve warm.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 233Total Fat 12gSaturated Fat 2gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 10gCholesterol 239mgSodium 1152mgCarbohydrates 4gFiber 0gSugar 0gProtein 26g
Dinnerfocus.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Shrimp skewers are a versatile and delightful dish that can easily become a staple in your cooking repertoire. With their quick preparation and impressive presentation, they are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining friends, these skewers are sure to impress with their flavor and simplicity. Happy grilling!
