These Blackened Shrimp Grapefruit Skewers are a tasty mix of juicy shrimp and tangy grapefruit, packed with flavor. The blackened seasoning adds a spicy kick you’ll love!
Grilling these skewers is so much fun, and the bright colors are perfect for impressing guests. I usually serve them with a cool dip to balance the spice—everyone enjoys them!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are best for this recipe as they hold up well on skewers. If you can’t find fresh shrimp, frozen shrimp work too. Just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking.
Spices: The smoked paprika gives a unique depth to the shrimp. If you prefer a milder flavor, use sweet paprika instead. Feel free to adjust the cayenne pepper according to your spice tolerance. For a different twist, try using chili powder!
Grapefruit: The segments add a nice tangy flavor. If grapefruits aren’t in season or available, oranges or even pineapple can be a sweet substitute. They add a lovely burst of freshness.
Avocado: While avocado adds creaminess, you could swap it with diced cucumber for a lighter feel or even use mango for a sweeter taste. It’s all about what you enjoy!
How Can I Ensure My Shrimp are Perfectly Grilled?
Grilling shrimp can be a bit tricky, but with the right approach, it’s easy! The key is not to overcook them, as they can turn rubbery. Follow these steps:
- Marinate the shrimp for at least 15-20 minutes to soak in all the spice flavors.
- Make sure your grill is hot – medium-high heat is ideal. This helps create a nice sear quickly.
- Grill for just 2-3 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re ready when they turn pink and opaque.
A final tip: let the shrimp sit for a minute after grilling to lock in moisture. Enjoy your skewers fresh off the grill!
How to Make Blackened Shrimp Grapefruit Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Skewers:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 grapefruits, segmented
- 1 avocado, cut into cubes
- Green onions, sliced, for garnish
- Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
For the Spices:
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15-20 minutes of prep time, plus an additional 10-15 minutes to cook. You’ll need some time to marinate the shrimp and assemble the skewers. Overall, it’s a quick and vibrant dish perfect for any gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Spice Mix:
Start by grabbing a mixing bowl. Combine the smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix them well with a spoon so you have a nice, even spice blend ready for the shrimp.
2. Marinate the Shrimp:
Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the bowl with your spice mix. Toss the shrimp gently to ensure they are coated evenly with the spices. Cover the bowl and let it marinate for 15-20 minutes. This will help the flavors sink in!
3. Heat the Grill:
While your shrimp is marinating, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. You want it nice and hot to give the shrimp that lovely char and flavor.
4. Assemble the Skewers:
Once your shrimp is marinated, it’s time to assemble the skewers! Take the soaked wooden skewers and start threading on your ingredients. Alternate between shrimp, grapefruit segments, and cubes of avocado for a colorful presentation. Keep going until all your ingredients are used up!
5. Grill the Skewers:
Now carefully place the skewers on the grill. Grill them for about 2-3 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re done when the shrimp turn pink and look a little charred. Don’t forget to keep an eye on them!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and sprinkle sliced green onions on top for a fresh touch. Serve immediately while they’re still warm, and you can toss in a wedge of lime or a few extra grapefruit segments on the side for some extra zing!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them completely before marinating. A quick method is to place the frozen shrimp in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for about 15-20 minutes. Drain and pat them dry before proceeding with the recipe.
How to Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer a milder flavor, simply reduce the amount of cayenne pepper. You can also add a touch of honey or a sweet dipping sauce later on to balance out the heat. If you love heat, consider adding more cayenne or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade for an extra kick!
Can I Prep These Skewers Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the shrimp and assemble the skewers up to 2 hours in advance. Just cover them and keep them in the fridge until you’re ready to grill. This helps deepen the flavors even more!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, or pop them in the microwave for a quick reheating option. Enjoy them cold in a salad for a refreshing twist!
