Tips for Grilling Perfect Shrimp Skewers
Grilled shrimp skewers are a perfect summer dish, whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue or just cooking dinner for your family. They're quick, easy, and delicious, but there are a few things you should keep in mind to ensure that your shrimp skewers turn out perfectly every time.
Choose the Right Shrimp
The first step in making perfect grilled shrimp skewers is selecting the right shrimp. You want to choose large, firm shrimp that are easy to skewer and won't fall apart on the grill. Look for fresh shrimp with a bright, translucent color and a slightly sweet aroma. Avoid shrimp that have a slimy texture or a strong fishy smell, as these are signs that the shrimp is not fresh.
When it comes to the type of shrimp, you have several options. Many people prefer to use jumbo shrimp, as they're easy to skewer and have a meaty texture that holds up well on the grill. However, you can also use smaller shrimp, which will cook faster and be more tender. Ultimately, the choice comes down to personal preference.
Prepare the Marinade
The key to making flavorful grilled shrimp skewers is to marinate the shrimp before grilling. A good marinade will infuse the shrimp with flavor, tenderize the meat, and help prevent it from sticking to the grill.
There are many different marinades you can use for grilled shrimp skewers, but a simple garlic and herb marinade is always a crowd-pleaser. To make the marinade, combine minced garlic, chopped herbs (such as parsley, oregano, and cilantro), olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Whisk the ingredients together and pour the marinade over the shrimp, making sure to coat each piece evenly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the shrimp marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours).
Skewer the Shrimp
Once the shrimp has marinated, it's time to skewer them. Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning on the grill. Thread the shrimp onto the skewers, making sure to leave a little space between each piece so that they cook evenly.
Grill to Perfection
Grilling shrimp skewers is quick and easy, but you want to make sure to cook them just right to avoid overcooking or undercooking. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque.
Be sure to keep an eye on the shrimp as they cook, as they can quickly go from perfectly cooked to overcooked. When the shrimp are done, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Grilled shrimp skewers are delicious on their own, but they're even better when served with a few simple sides. Some of our favorite side dishes to serve with grilled shrimp skewers include:
- Grilled vegetables: Toss some sliced zucchini, bell peppers, and onions in olive oil and grill them alongside the shrimp skewers for a colorful and flavorful side dish. - Rice pilaf: Serve the shrimp skewers over a bed of fluffy rice pilaf for a hearty and satisfying meal. - Salad: A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette is the perfect complement to the bold flavors of the shrimp skewers.
Conclusion
Grilled shrimp skewers are a simple, yet impressive dish that is perfect for any summer gathering. By following these tips and tricks, you'll be able to make perfect grilled shrimp skewers every time. So, fire up the grill, invite your friends and family over, and enjoy this delicious and flavorful dish!