If you’re craving a dish that captures all the vibrant flavors of summer, you have to try this Juicy Grilled Shrimp Kabobs Recipe. It’s an absolute celebration of fresh shrimp, colorful bell peppers, and zesty seasonings all coming together on perfectly grilled skewers. Every bite bursts with a delightful combination of tangy, smoky, and savory notes that will have you eager for seconds. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or just want an easy yet impressive meal, these kabobs bring both the juicy texture and incredible flavor you’re dreaming of.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Juicy Grilled Shrimp Kabobs Recipe is all about using simple, vibrant ingredients that each play a key role in creating the perfect balance of taste, texture, and visual appeal. From the fresh shrimp to the colorful veggies and the tangy marinade, every component contributes to making these kabobs unforgettable.
- 1 pound raw shrimp: Fresh or thawed shrimp that will soak up all the marinade’s flavors.
- â…“ cup tomato sauce: Adds a rich, slightly sweet base for the marinade.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil: Helps lock in moisture and gives a lovely grilled finish.
- 2 tablespoons red apple vinegar: Brings a bright tang that lifts the whole dish.
- 1 yellow bell pepper: Offers a sweet crunch and gorgeous golden color.
- 1 red bell pepper: Adds vibrant color and a juicy bite to each kabob.
- 1 onion: Gives a hint of natural sweetness and char when grilled.
- Fresh parsley (for garnish): A fresh herbal hit that adds color and aroma before serving.
- Additional spices (garlic, basil, oregano, salt, paprika, cayenne): These pantry staples pack in layers of savory and smoky flavor.
How to Make Juicy Grilled Shrimp Kabobs Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Start by whisking together tomato sauce, olive oil, red apple vinegar, minced garlic, basil, oregano, salt, paprika, and cayenne in a mixing bowl. This vibrant marinade is the secret behind the rich taste and juiciness of the shrimp. Set aside ¼ cup of the marinade to brush on the kabobs later for an added punch of flavor.
Step 2: Marinate the Shrimp
Next, toss the raw shrimp in the remaining marinade, making sure every piece is well-coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for about 20 to 30 minutes. This step is crucial because it allows the shrimp to soak up all those bright, zesty flavors ensuring each bite is perfectly seasoned.
Step 3: Preheat and Prepare the Grill
While the shrimp marinate, get your grill ready by heating it to medium and giving the grates a light coat of oil. This prevents sticking and helps achieve those gorgeous grill marks that make the kabobs look as good as they taste.
Step 4: Assemble the Kabobs
Now for the fun part: threading the ingredients onto skewers. Alternate the marinated shrimp with chunks of yellow and red bell peppers and onions. This layering not only looks stunning but also ensures every bite has a perfect balance of protein and veggies.
Step 5: Grill to Perfection
Place the kabobs on the grill, letting them cook for about 3 minutes on each side. You’re looking for the shrimp to turn a beautiful pink and the vegetables to soften just enough while retaining their crunch. During the last few minutes of grilling, brush the kabobs with the reserved marinade to keep them juicy and amp up the flavor.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once off the grill, sprinkle fresh parsley over the kabobs. This finishing touch adds a burst of green freshness and a subtle herby note that complements the grilled elements perfectly.
How to Serve Juicy Grilled Shrimp Kabobs Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is an easy and beautiful garnish for your kabobs, providing a crisp contrast to the smoky shrimp. Additionally, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving brightens every bite and highlights the marinade’s tangy edges.
Side Dishes
For a complete meal, pair your kabobs with a light and refreshing side like a crisp garden salad or herbed couscous. Grilled corn on the cob or a creamy garlic mashed potato also complement the shrimp’s flavors wonderfully, making your plate colorful and balanced.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress guests, serve your kabobs on a wooden platter lined with lemon wedges and extra parsley sprigs. You can also offer a flavorful dipping sauce on the side, such as a cool tzatziki or a tangy yogurt-based dip, to add another layer of flavor and make your Juicy Grilled Shrimp Kabobs Recipe truly unforgettable.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers from your Juicy Grilled Shrimp Kabobs Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to two days and remain tasty enough for a quick lunch or dinner the next day.
Freezing
While fresh-shrimp kabobs are best enjoyed immediately, you can freeze cooked shrimp kabobs by wrapping them tightly in foil and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They will keep for up to two months but note that freezing might slightly change the texture of the shrimp and vegetables.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the kabobs in a skillet over medium-low heat or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Avoid high heat to prevent the shrimp from becoming rubbery. A quick brush of olive oil before reheating helps maintain moisture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before marinating to avoid excess water diluting the flavors.
What type of skewers should I use?
Metal skewers are great for even cooking and reusability. If you use wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
How spicy is this Juicy Grilled Shrimp Kabobs Recipe?
The paprika and cayenne add a mild kick, but you can easily adjust the heat by increasing or decreasing the cayenne pepper to suit your taste buds.
Can I prepare this recipe without a grill?
Definitely! You can cook the kabobs under a broiler or on a grill pan stove-top, turning frequently to get that same lovely char and juicy finish.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients used in this Juicy Grilled Shrimp Kabobs Recipe are naturally gluten-free, making it a safe and delicious option for those with gluten sensitivities.
Final Thoughts
This Juicy Grilled Shrimp Kabobs Recipe has become one of my all-time favorites because it brings together simple ingredients and bold flavors in such a joyous way. Next time you want to savor summer on a skewer, dive right into this recipe – your taste buds will thank you for every juicy, smoky bite.
Print
Juicy Grilled Shrimp Kabobs Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Juicy Grilled Shrimp Kabobs feature marinated shrimp and colorful bell peppers grilled to perfection, creating a flavorful and quick-to-make meal ideal for summer cookouts or weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Marinade
- 1/3 cup tomato sauce
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red apple vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 onion, cut into chunks
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the marinade. In a mixing bowl, whisk together tomato sauce, olive oil, red apple vinegar, minced garlic, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Reserve 1/4 cup of this marinade for basting later.
- Marinate the shrimp. Add the raw shrimp to the remaining marinade and toss thoroughly to coat each piece. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 20 to 30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.
- Preheat the grill. Heat your grill to medium temperature and lightly grease the grates to prevent sticking.
- Assemble the kabobs. Thread the marinated shrimp alternately with chunks of yellow bell pepper, red bell pepper, and onion onto skewers, spacing ingredients evenly.
- Grill the kabobs. Place the skewers on the preheated grill. Cook for approximately 3 minutes on each side or until the shrimp turns pink and opaque, and the vegetables become tender. During the last few minutes of grilling, brush the kabobs with the reserved marinade for extra flavor and moisture.
- Serve. Remove the kabobs from the grill and garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy immediately for best taste.
Notes
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
- Adjust cayenne pepper quantity according to your preferred spice level.
- You can substitute red apple vinegar with white wine vinegar if needed.
- Serve with a side of rice, salad, or crusty bread for a complete meal.
- Ensure shrimp are fully cooked before serving; they should be pink, firm, and opaque.
