The aroma of grilled shrimp mingling with smoky spices fills the air, transporting you to a sun-drenched beach barbeque. This Jumbo Shrimp Skewers Recipe: Smoky & Sweet takes just 30 minutes from start to finish and delivers a burst of flavors that perfectly balances sweetness and smokiness. One reason it works so well is the quick marination process that infuses the shrimp with vibrant flavors while keeping them tender.
This recipe is great for seafood lovers, ideal for summer gatherings, or simply a delightful weeknight dinner. You can marinate the shrimp and vegetables a few hours in advance and keep them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to grill.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- The combination of smoky paprika and sweet pineapple creates a unique flavor profile.
- Shrimp cooks quickly, perfect for weeknight meals.
- The vibrant colors of the skewers make for a stunning presentation.
- Cooking on skewers allows for easy flipping and a perfect sear.
What You’ll Need
Get ready to gather your ingredients for a delightful meal.
For the Skewers
- 1.5 lbs jumbo shrimp (16/20 count), peeled and deveined, tail-on
- 1 large red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch squares
- 1 medium red onion, cut into 1-inch petals
- 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
For the Marinade
- 0.25 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 0.5 tsp red pepper flakes
- 0.5 tsp kosher salt
- 0.25 tsp coarse black pepper
Opt for fresh pineapple for the best flavor.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Shrimp can be replaced with chicken or tofu.
- Pineapple can be substituted with mango or peach.
- Red bell pepper can be swapped for yellow or green bell pepper.
- Dried herbs can be replaced with fresh herbs.
How to Make It
Follow these simple steps to create grill-ready skewers.
Whisk the marinade
Whisk the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, smoked paprika, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper in a large mixing bowl until the marinade is thick and emulsified.
Prepare the shrimp and vegetables
Pat the jumbo shrimp completely dry with paper towels to ensure a proper sear. Toss the shrimp, bell pepper squares, onion petals, and pineapple chunks in the marinade.
Marinate the mixture
Allow the mixture to marinate for 15 minutes at room temperature. Do not exceed 20 minutes to prevent the acid from breaking down the shrimp texture.
Thread the skewers
Thread the ingredients onto skewers, ensuring you pierce each shrimp through both the head and the tail so they lay flat against the cooking surface.
Preheat and grill
Preheat grill or air fryer to high heat. Sear the skewers for 3 minutes per side (6 minutes total) until the shrimp are opaque and form a ‘C’ shape.
How to Store It
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Freezer: No, shrimp is best fresh.
Reheat: Cook on the grill for 2-3 minutes, just until heated through.
Tips for Best Results
- Make sure to properly dry the shrimp for better searing.
- Use skewers that have been soaked in water to prevent burning.
- Marinate for just the right amount of time for optimal flavor and texture.
- For extra char, finish cooking under a broiler for 1-2 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side of quinoa salad for a complete meal.
- Pair with a zesty dipping sauce for added flavor.
- Great for parties or gatherings to impress your guests.
