Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 5 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Summer is here, and it’s the perfect time to fire up the grill and enjoy delicious meals that don’t take long to prepare. One of the standout highlights of summer eating is undoubtedly BBQ Shrimp Skewers. They are quick, packed with flavor, and ideal for family dinners or backyard parties. The best part? You can whip them up in just 15 minutes!
BBQ Shrimp Skewers are versatile, meaning you can incorporate different flavors based on your preferences. Whether you prefer a spicy Cajun seasoning or a zesty lemon-garlic marinade, these skewers can be customized to tantalize your taste buds. Plus, they are a great source of lean protein for healthy eating, making them ideal for busy individuals, families, and even kitchen beginners looking to impress.
What Is Summer Dinner Ideas: BBQ Shrimp Skewers in 15 Minutes?
BBQ Shrimp Skewers consist of fresh shrimp marinated in a flavorful sauce, then grilled until perfectly cooked. This dish is not only quick but allows you to enjoy the fresh flavors of summer. The smoky grill marks and the charred edges create a delightful contrast with the tender, juicy shrimp. The simplicity of this dish makes it a go-to option for a weeknight dinner or a weekend BBQ, ensuring everyone is satisfied without spending hours in the kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This
There are countless reasons to fall in love with BBQ Shrimp Skewers. For starters, they are incredibly fast to make, which is perfect for busy parents or individuals with tight schedules. The preparation is straightforward, making them suitable for those who may not have a lot of cooking experience. Furthermore, the skewers are not only visually appealing but also versatile. You can tailor the flavors to what you love most, whether it’s a tangy BBQ sauce or a spicy marinade.
These skewers provide a delightful taste of summer in every bite. The smoky, grilled flavor combined with the spices makes it easy to enjoy a healthy protein-packed meal without compromising on taste. Pair them with fresh salads or grilled vegetables for a complete dinner that feels light and refreshing!
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Shrimp: Fresh, large shrimp are ideal for skewering. Look for shrimp that are firm and have a clean sea-like smell. About 1 pound should suffice for four servings.
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil helps to retain moisture and adds richness to the marinated shrimp.
- Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice enhances the flavor and balances the richness of the oil and shrimp.
- Garlic: 2 cloves of minced garlic provide a robust flavor that complements the seafood beautifully.
- Seasoning: 1 teaspoon of salt and pepper for basic seasoning, plus any additional spices like paprika or cayenne for extra heat.
- Bamboo Skewers: Soaked in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill. They should be about 10-12 inches long for easy handling.
How to Make
- Prep your shrimp: Begin by cleaning the shrimp. Ensure they are de-shelled and deveined. Rinse them under cold water, and pat them dry with paper towels. Remove any excess moisture to allow the marinade to adhere properly.
- Make the marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. If you prefer a little spice, add paprika or cayenne pepper to taste. Whisk until well combined for a perfect marinade.
- Marinate the shrimp: Place the cleaned shrimp into the bowl and gently toss them in the marinade. Ensure that each shrimp is evenly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Preheat grill: While the shrimp are marinating, preheat your grill to a medium-high temperature. If you are using a charcoal grill, make sure the coals are glowing red and well ashed over. A hot grill will give the shrimp beautiful char marks and enhance the taste.
- Assemble the skewers: Thread the marinated shrimp onto the soaked bamboo skewers, making sure to leave a little space between each shrimp for even cooking. Four to five shrimp per skewer is ideal.
- Grill the skewers: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, firm to the touch. Avoid overcooking to ensure they remain juicy and succulent. Once done, remove from grill and let them rest for a few minutes.
Variations & Substitutions
Cajun BBQ Shrimp Skewers: For a taste of Louisiana, try using Cajun seasoning in place of salt and pepper. This gives the shrimp a spicy kick and a unique flavor profile that pairs wonderfully with grilled vegetables. To make it even more authentic, serve with a side of creamy remoulade sauce.
Tropical Pineapple Shrimp Skewers: Adding chunks of fresh pineapple to your skewers not only adds sweetness but also balances the spices beautifully. Combine diced pineapple with shrimp and a marinade of soy sauce, brown sugar, and ginger to create a tropical sensation. This variation is terrific for summer parties, adding a fruity twist to the classic skewers.
Mediterranean Shrimp Skewers: Swap the seasoning for herbs such as oregano, thyme, and basil to create a Mediterranean flair. Pair these skewers with tzatziki sauce and a fresh salad for a delightful dinner that’s both light and satisfying.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When grilling shrimp, one common mistake is not properly preheating the grill. Skipping this step can lead to shrimp that stick to the grill, becoming difficult to turn. Always preheat your grill to the ideal temperature before placing the skewers on it.
Another frequent issue is overcooking the shrimp. If left on the grill too long, shrimp can become tough and rubbery. Keep an eye on the cooking time, typically only about 2-3 minutes per side is sufficient. When they are no longer translucent and have turned pink, they are ready to serve.
Lastly, using wooden skewers without soaking them first can result in burnt skewers. Always soak your skewers for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from catching fire.
Storage, Freezing & Reheating Tips
To store leftovers, place the cooked shrimp skewers in an airtight container and refrigerate. They can safely be stored for up to 2 days. When reheating, make sure to do so gently in a skillet on low heat to avoid overcooking.
If you need to freeze the skewers, it’s best to freeze them before cooking. Place the marinated shrimp skewers in a freezer-safe bag and remove as much air as possible. They can be stored this way for up to 2 months. When ready to use, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight before grilling.
For reheating the cooked skewers, you can also place them briefly under the broiler or on the grill, ensuring that they are heated through without drying out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen shrimp can be a convenient option. Just make sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator before marinating. It’s best to use raw shrimp rather than pre-cooked as the latter won’t soak up the marinade flavors.
What dip or sauce pairs best with BBQ shrimp skewers?
A tangy remoulade or a zesty garlic aioli makes for delicious dipping sauces that complement the flavors of the shrimp beautifully. Alternatively, a fresh pico de gallo offers a refreshing topping.
Can I make these skewers ahead of time?
You can marinate the shrimp a few hours in advance before grilling. Just be cautious about marinating them for too long, as the acidity in the lemon juice can start to “cook” the shrimp, altering their texture.
What side dishes go well with BBQ shrimp skewers?
Grilled vegetables, a light garden salad, or even a refreshing quinoa salad pair perfectly with BBQ shrimp skewers. They offer balance and complement the meal without overpowering the shrimp’s flavor.
Can I grill these skewers indoors?
Yes, you can! If you don’t have an outdoor grill, an indoor grill pan on the stove is a great alternative. It provides a nice sear similar to outdoor grilling and is also easy to clean up.
Conclusion: BBQ Shrimp Skewers are more than just a quick meal; they embody the essence of summer dining. Ideal for busy families or entertaining friends, these skewers promise explosive flavor and easy preparation in just 15 minutes! Whether you stick with the classic recipe or explore the various fun variations, you’ll surely leave a lasting impression. Happy grilling!
