Looking for a quick and tasty meal option? These delicious shrimp kabobs could just be what you're searching for. Combining fresh succulent shrimp with the vibrant flavors of fresh vegetables and a tangy marinade, they're sure to be a hit at any table. Ideal for both weeknight dinners and weekend barbecues, these kabobs are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare.
This recipe calls for a few fresh ingredients that you may not always have on hand like bell peppers and shrimp. When purchasing shrimp, go for peeled and deveined ones for convenience or you can peel and devein them yourself. Both red and yellow bell peppers are used for their sweet, slightly tangy flavors and vibrant colors. If they're unavailable, feel free to substitute with any bell peppers of your choice.
Delicious Shrimp Kabobs Ingredients
Olive oil: Used as the base of the marinade, it helps in blending all the flavors together and makes sure they stick to the shrimp and vegetables.
Honey: Adds a hint of sweetness to the marinade, counteracting the saltiness of the soy sauce.
Soy sauce: Gives the kabobs a savory depth of flavor.
Lemon zest: Infuses a fresh, tangy note into the marinade.
Parsley leaves: Adds a slight peppery flavor with a fresh, green note.
Thyme leaves: Gives the kabobs a subtle, earthy flavor.
Salt and pepper: Basic seasoning to enhance all the flavors.
Garlic: Gives the kabobs a pungent, warm flavor.
Shrimp: You can use either large or jumbo shrimp for this recipe. They are the star of the dish.
Bell peppers: Adds a sweet and a little bit tangy flavor, plus they give a nice, vibrant color to the dish.
Red onion: They become tender and sweet when grilled, adding a nice flavor contrast to the other ingredients.
One reader, Kitty Upshaw says:
The delicious shrimp kabobs recipe was a hit at our family barbecue! The marinade gave the shrimp and veggies a burst of flavor, and grilling them made for a perfect char. It was a crowd-pleaser, and I'll definitely be making it again. So tasty and easy to prepare!
Techniques Required for Making Delicious Shrimp Kabobs
How to prepare marinade: Combine olive oil, honey, soy sauce, lemon zest, parsley, thyme, salt, pepper, and garlic in a large bowl. Whisk until thoroughly mixed.
How to marinate shrimp and vegetables: Place the shrimp and vegetables in the marinade, cover, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 8 hours to allow the flavors to infuse.
How to thread kabobs: Thread the marinated shrimp, red bell peppers, yellow bell peppers, and red onions onto skewers, alternating between the ingredients for a visually appealing presentation.
How to grill kabobs: Preheat the grill or a grill pan to medium-high heat. Cook the kabobs for 2 to 3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque, and the vegetables are tender.
How to serve: Serve the delicious shrimp kabobs immediately for the best flavor and texture.
How To Make Grilled Shrimp Kabobs
Made with large shrimps marinated in a zesty marinade, skewered with bell peppers, and onions, these grilled shrimp kabobs are healthy and surely delicious!
Serves:
Ingredients
For Marinade:
- 4tbspolive oil
- 1tbsphoney
- 1½tbspsoy sauce
- 1tsplemon zest
- 2tspparsley leaves,chopped
- 2tspthyme leaves,chopped
- ½tspsalt
- ¼tsppepper
- ½tspgarlic,minced
For Kabobs:
- 1lbshrimp,peeled, deveined, tails can be left on or off depending on preference
- 1red bell pepper,cut into ¾-inch pieces
- 1yellow bell pepper,cut into ¾-inch pieces
- 1red onion,cut into ¾-inch pieces
Instructions
-
Combine all the marinade ingredients in a large bowl. Whisk until thoroughly mixed.
-
Place the shrimps and vegetables in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 8 hours.
-
Thread the shrimps, bell peppers, and onions onto the skewers.
-
Preheat the grill or a grill pan to medium-high heat.
-
Cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side, or until the shrimps are pink and opaque, and the vegetables are tender.
-
Serve immediately.
Nutrition
- Calories: 255.11kcal
- Fat: 14.92g
- Saturated Fat: 2.21g
- Trans Fat: 0.02g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 10.07g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.80g
- Carbohydrates: 13.75g
- Fiber: 1.82g
- Sugar: 6.94g
- Protein: 17.13g
- Cholesterol: 142.88mg
- Sodium: 975.77mg
- Calcium: 82.64mg
- Potassium: 374.59mg
- Iron: 0.97mg
- Vitamin A: 116.24µg
- Vitamin C: 127.88mg
Essential Technique Tip for Perfect Shrimp Kabobs
When threading the shrimp, bell peppers, and onions onto the skewers, try to alternate between the different ingredients. This not only makes the kabobs visually appealing, but also allows the flavors to meld together as they cook. Additionally, make sure to leave a little space between each piece to ensure even cooking.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Shrimp Kabobs
Prep ahead: Prepare the marinade and chop the vegetables the night before to save time on the day of cooking.
Use pre-cooked shrimp: Opt for pre-cooked shrimp to cut down on marinating and grilling time.
Invest in a grill basket: Use a grill basket to cook the shrimp and vegetables together, saving time and effort.
Organize your ingredients: Arrange all the ingredients and tools needed for the recipe before starting to streamline the cooking process.
Quick marinade: If short on time, marinate the shrimp for at least 30 minutes to infuse flavor efficiently.
Preheat the grill: Ensure the grill is preheated before cooking to reduce overall cooking time.
Multi-task: While the shrimp is marinating, prepare any side dishes or accompaniments to maximize efficiency in the kitchen.
Substitute Ingredients For Shrimp Kabobs Recipe
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a similar mild flavor and high smoke point, making it a suitable substitute for olive oil in marinades.
honey - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup offers a similar sweetness and depth of flavor, making it a great alternative to honey in the marinade.
soy sauce - Substitute with coconut aminos: Coconut aminos provide a similar umami flavor and saltiness, making it a suitable replacement for soy sauce in the marinade.
lemon zest - Substitute with orange zest: Orange zest can provide a citrusy brightness similar to lemon zest, adding a refreshing flavor to the marinade.
parsley leaves - Substitute with cilantro leaves: Cilantro leaves offer a fresh and herbaceous flavor, similar to parsley, and can be used as a substitute in the marinade.
thyme leaves - Substitute with rosemary: Rosemary provides a similar earthy and aromatic flavor, making it a suitable replacement for thyme in the marinade.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used as a substitute for regular salt, providing a similar level of salinity to the marinade.
pepper - Substitute with paprika: Paprika can add a mild heat and smoky flavor, similar to black pepper, to the marinade.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used as a substitute for fresh garlic, providing a concentrated garlic flavor to the marinade.
shrimp - Substitute with cubed chicken breast: Cubed chicken breast can be used as a substitute for shrimp, offering a versatile protein option for the kabobs.
red bell pepper - Substitute with yellow bell pepper: Yellow bell pepper can be used as a substitute for red bell pepper, providing a similar sweet and crunchy texture to the kabobs.
yellow bell pepper - Substitute with green bell pepper: Green bell pepper can be used as a substitute for yellow bell pepper, adding a vibrant color and crispness to the kabobs.
red onion - Substitute with white onion: White onion can be used as a substitute for red onion, offering a milder flavor and crunchy texture to the kabobs.
Best Way to Present Shrimp Kabobs
Elevate the plating: Arrange the shrimp kabobs on a pristine white plate, ensuring each element is showcased elegantly. The vibrant colors of the bell peppers and shrimp should be the focal point, with the skewers arranged in a visually appealing manner.
Incorporate garnishes: Sprinkle microgreens or finely chopped herbs over the kabobs to add a pop of color and freshness. This will enhance the visual appeal and add a touch of sophistication to the dish.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of minimalism by allowing some empty space on the plate. This will create a sense of balance and draw attention to the meticulously arranged kabobs.
Consider the plate shape: Opt for a rectangular or oval-shaped plate to complement the elongated shape of the kabobs. The plate's shape can enhance the overall visual composition of the dish.
Add a drizzle or sauce: Create a complementary sauce or drizzle using ingredients such as honey, soy sauce, and lemon to delicately enhance the flavors and add an artistic touch to the presentation.
Essential Tools for Making Shrimp Kabobs
- Grill or grill pan: A cooking tool used for grilling the shrimp kabobs.
- Skewers: Used to thread the shrimp, bell peppers, and onions for grilling.
- Large bowl: Used for mixing the marinade and marinating the shrimp and vegetables.
- Whisk: Used for mixing the marinade ingredients thoroughly.
- Refrigerator: Used to refrigerate the marinated shrimp and vegetables.
- Tongs: Used for flipping the shrimp kabobs while grilling.
- Knife: Used for cutting the bell peppers and onions into chunks for the kabobs.
- Cutting board: Used for cutting and preparing the vegetables and shrimp for the kabobs.
How To Store and Freeze Shrimp Kabobs
If you have any leftover shrimp kabobs, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked shrimp kabobs. First, let them cool completely to room temperature. Then, place the kabobs in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid (about 2 hours). Once frozen, transfer the kabobs to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Label the container with the date and store in the freezer for up to 2 months.
To reheat frozen shrimp kabobs, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the frozen kabobs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can thaw the kabobs in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat them in the oven or on the grill for a few minutes until warmed through.
It's important to note that while freezing cooked shrimp kabobs is possible, the texture of the shrimp and vegetables may change slightly upon reheating. The shrimp may become a bit more rubbery, and the vegetables may soften further. However, the flavors will still be delicious, and the kabobs will make a great quick meal when you're short on time.
How To Reheat Leftover Shrimp Kabobs
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover shrimp kabobs on a baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper. Brush the kabobs lightly with olive oil to prevent them from drying out. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until the shrimp are heated through and the vegetables are tender-crisp. This method is ideal for maintaining the texture and flavor of the kabobs.
For a quicker option, you can reheat the shrimp kabobs in the microwave. Place the kabobs on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the shrimp are heated through and the vegetables are warm. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become rubbery.
If you have a grill or grill pan, you can reheat the shrimp kabobs over medium-high heat. Brush the kabobs with a little olive oil and place them on the preheated grill. Cook for 1-2 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are heated through and the vegetables are slightly charred. This method will give your kabobs a nice smoky flavor and crispy texture.
For a stovetop option, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of olive oil or butter to the pan. Remove the shrimp and vegetables from the skewers and add them to the skillet. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the shrimp are heated through and the vegetables are tender. This method allows you to easily control the temperature and ensures even heating.
Random Fact About Shrimp Kabobs
The shrimp kabobs are a great source of lean protein and are low in calories, making them a healthy and delicious option for a meal.
Is Making Shrimp Kabobs at Home Cost-Effective?
This shrimp kabobs recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, such as shrimp, bell peppers, and onions, are relatively affordable and widely available. The marinade uses simple and economical items like olive oil and soy sauce. The total cost for a household of 4 people would be approximately $20. The dish offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making it a satisfying and budget-friendly option for a family meal. I would rate this recipe a solid 8 for its affordability and delicious outcome.
Are Shrimp Kabobs Healthy or Unhealthy?
The shrimp kabob recipe is a healthy choice for several reasons:
- Shrimp is a lean protein source, low in calories and high in essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin B12, and selenium
- The marinade uses olive oil, which is a heart-healthy fat, and honey as a natural sweetener instead of refined sugar
- The recipe incorporates colorful bell peppers and onions, providing a variety of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants
- Grilling is a low-fat cooking method that helps retain the nutrients in the ingredients
However, there are a few aspects that could be improved:
- The recipe calls for 4 tablespoons of olive oil, which may be excessive. Reducing the amount of oil can help lower the overall calorie content
- Soy sauce contains high levels of sodium, which can be a concern for those with high blood pressure or heart conditions. Using low-sodium soy sauce or substituting it with coconut aminos can be a healthier alternative
To make the recipe even healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Add more non-starchy vegetables to the skewers, such as zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms, to increase the fiber content and provide a greater variety of nutrients
- Serve the kabobs over a bed of quinoa or brown rice for a complete meal that includes complex carbohydrates
- Pair the dish with a fresh green salad or a side of roasted vegetables to further boost the nutritional value
- Use a portion of the marinade as a dipping sauce to add flavor without the need for high-calorie condiments
Editor's Thoughts on This Shrimp Kabob Recipe
This shrimp kabobs recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The marinade infuses the shrimp and vegetables with a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy notes. The grilling process enhances the natural sweetness of the bell peppers and onions while adding a smoky char to the dish. The shrimp are cooked to tender perfection, making each bite a succulent and satisfying experience. This recipe is a surefire way to impress guests at any gathering or to simply elevate a weeknight meal.
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Why trust this Shrimp Kabobs Recipe:
This recipe guarantees a delightful dining experience with its carefully selected ingredients. The shrimp is a rich source of protein and pairs perfectly with the vibrant flavors of red bell pepper, yellow bell pepper, and red onion. The marinade, featuring olive oil, honey, and soy sauce, infuses the dish with a harmonious blend of sweet and savory notes. The inclusion of lemon zest, parsley leaves, and thyme leaves adds a refreshing and aromatic touch. Trust in this recipe for a delectable and wholesome meal.
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