Shrimp Kebab

Grilled shrimp kebabs are a delightful dish that can elevate any gathering, from summer barbecues to cozy family dinners. This Shrimp Kebab recipe stands out thanks to its rich garlic lemon butter marinade, delivering a burst of flavor with every bite. Perfectly grilled and easy to prepare, these shrimp kebabs are sure to impress your guests and keep them coming back for more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can whip up these shrimp kebabs in no time.
• Flavor Explosion: The garlic butter and lemon juice create a delicious marinade that enhances the shrimp’s natural sweetness.
• Versatile Dish: Great for various occasions, whether you’re hosting a barbecue, enjoying a picnic, or having dinner at home.
• Low-Carb Delight: With only 2 grams of carbs per serving, this recipe is perfect for those on low-carb diets.
• Easy Cleanup: Using bamboo skewers makes for easy serving and cleanup after the meal.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment makes this Shrimp Kebab recipe even easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Bamboo skewers
• Grill
• Mixing bowl
• Brush for basting
• Paper towels

Importance of Each Tool

• Bamboo skewers: These are ideal for threading shrimp and help prevent them from falling through the grill grates.
• Grill: A good quality grill ensures even cooking and adds that delightful smoky flavor to your shrimp kebabs.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining the marinade ingredients thoroughly before coating the shrimp.
• Brush for basting: Helps distribute the garlic butter mixture evenly on both sides of the kebabs while grilling.

Ingredients

For this delicious Shrimp Kebab recipe, you’ll need:

For the Shrimp Kebab

• 3 lbs (1.35kg) shrimp (shelled and deveined tail-on)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
• 1 pinch salt
• 3 dashes cayenne pepper
• 1 1/2 tablespoons lemon juice

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Shrimp Kebab

Step 1: Soak the Skewers

Soak the bamboo skewers in water for about 30 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill. While they soak, rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.

Step 2: Prepare the Marinade

In a mixing bowl, combine:
1. Minced garlic
2. Melted butter
3. Salt
4. Cayenne pepper
5. Lemon juice

Reserve some of this mixture for basting later.

Step 3: Assemble the Kebabs

Add the cleaned shrimp to the bowl with the marinade. Toss until all shrimp are well coated. Thread three shrimp onto each bamboo skewer.

Step 4: Grill the Kebabs

Preheat your grill over medium-high heat. Place the skewers on it and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side. Use a brush to baste with reserved garlic butter mixture while grilling.

Step 5: Serve Immediately

Once golden brown and cooked through, remove from grill and serve hot. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

With these simple steps, you’ll have mouthwatering Shrimp Kebabs ready in no time! Enjoy!

How to Serve Shrimp Kebab

Serving shrimp kebabs is a delightful experience that allows you to showcase this tasty dish in various ways. Whether you prefer a casual gathering or an elegant dinner, here are some creative serving suggestions.

On a Bed of Greens

• Mixed Greens: Serve the shrimp kebabs on a bed of fresh mixed greens for a light and refreshing meal.
• Spinach Salad: Pair them with a spinach salad topped with avocado and citrus dressing for added flavor.

With Dipping Sauces

• Garlic Aioli: A rich garlic aioli complements the shrimp’s flavor and adds creaminess.
• Spicy Harissa Sauce: For those who enjoy heat, serve with spicy harissa sauce for an extra kick.

As Appetizers

• Skewers on Platter: Present the shrimp kebabs on a decorative platter as a finger food option for parties.
• Mini Bites: Cut the skewers into bite-sized pieces for easy snacking during gatherings.

How to Perfect Shrimp Kebab

To ensure your shrimp kebabs are mouthwatering and perfectly grilled, consider these helpful tips.

• Marinate Well: Allow the shrimp to marinate for at least 30 minutes to enhance their flavor.
• Use Fresh Shrimp: Opt for fresh, high-quality shrimp for the best taste and texture.
• Preheat the Grill: Make sure your grill is hot before placing the kebabs on it; this helps achieve nice grill marks.
• Don’t Overcook: Cook shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque to keep them tender and juicy.

Best Side Dishes for Shrimp Kebab

Pairing side dishes with your shrimp kebabs can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options that complement their flavors beautifully.

1. Cilantro Lime Rice: A zesty rice dish that adds freshness and pairs well with the garlic butter sauce.
2. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers add color and nutrition to your plate.
3. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover garlic butter from the skewers.
4. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw offers a cool contrast to the warm, grilled shrimp.
5. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with diced tomatoes and cucumbers provides a nutritious boost.
6. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn grilled alongside the kebabs brings out summer flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making shrimp kebabs, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:

• Incorrect Shrimp Size: Using shrimp that are too small can lead to overcooking. Choose larger shrimp for better texture and flavor.
• Skipping the Marinade: Not marinating the shrimp can result in bland kebabs. Always allow them to soak in the garlic butter mixture for at least 15 minutes before grilling.
• Using Dry Skewers: Failing to soak wooden skewers can cause them to burn on the grill. Soak your skewers in water for at least 30 minutes prior to use.
• Overcrowding the Skewers: Stuffing too many shrimp onto each skewer can lead to uneven cooking. Aim for three shrimp per skewer for optimal grilling.
• Ignoring Grill Temperature: Grilling at too low or high temperatures can affect cooking time. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat for perfect results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover shrimp kebabs in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Shrimp Kebab

• Wrap individual skewers tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag; they can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Shrimp Kebab

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the kebabs on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish and cover loosely with a lid. Heat in short intervals of 30 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a bit of butter, and cook for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp for making shrimp kebab?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just ensure they are fully thawed and pat dry before marinating and grilling.

What is the best type of shrimp for kebabs?

Medium or large shrimp work best as they hold up well on the grill and provide great flavor and texture.

How long do I grill shrimp kebabs?

Grill your shrimp kebabs for about 2-3 minutes per side or until they are pink and opaque.

Can I customize my shrimp kebab marinade?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite seasonings or vegetables like bell peppers or onions for added flavor and nutrition.

Final Thoughts

This grilled garlic butter shrimp kebab recipe is not just flavorful; it’s also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with different marinades or add vegetables. It’s perfect for summer barbecues or quick weeknight dinners. Give it a try and delight your taste buds!