These Blackened Shrimp Grapefruit Skewers are a tasty treat! Juicy shrimp are seasoned with bold spices and paired with fresh, zesty grapefruit for a fun flavor mix.
Grilling is a blast, and watching those shrimp sizzle makes my mouth water! They’re perfect for a barbecue or a light dinner. Trust me, you won’t want to share these! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are perfect for skewering and grilling. If you can’t find large shrimp, medium-sized ones work as well. Just note that cooking times may vary slightly.
Blackening Seasoning: This spice blend is key to achieving that bold flavor. If you’re in a pinch, make your own using paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and oregano. Adjust the spice level to your taste!
Grapefruit: Fresh grapefruit gives a lovely acidity. If grapefruits are out of season, consider using oranges or even pineapple for a sweeter touch. They’ll still pair nicely with shrimp!
Avocado: Creamy avocado balances the dish perfectly. If you’re avoiding avocados, diced mango or even cucumber can add a refreshing twist.
Green Onions: These add a nice crunch and fresh flavor. If you don’t have green onions, chopped cilantro or parsley can also brighten up the dish.
How Do I Grill Shrimp Skewers Without Overcooking Them?
Grilling shrimp can be tricky, as they cook quickly. To ensure perfectly cooked skewers, follow these steps:
- Make sure your grill or grill pan is preheated to medium-high. A hot surface helps achieve a nice char.
- Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes per side. Look for the shrimp to turn opaque and slightly curled, which means they’re finished.
- Remember, they carry on cooking for a moment after being removed from the grill, so it’s okay to take them off just before they look fully done!
With these techniques, you’ll have juicy and flavorful shrimp skewers every time!
How to Make Blackened Shrimp Grapefruit Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Skewers:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon blackening seasoning
- 1 large grapefruit, segmented
- 1 avocado, cut into cubes
- 2 tablespoons green onions, finely sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 8 minutes to cook. With soaking the wooden skewers, you’ll want to plan for roughly 30 minutes in total, but a lot of that is just waiting for the skewers to soak. It’s quick and perfect for a sunny day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Skewers:
If you’re using wooden skewers, make sure to soak them in water for about 30 minutes. This will help prevent them from burning while cooking. If you’re using metal skewers, you can skip this step and move right on to the shrimp!
2. Season the Shrimp:
In a medium bowl, add the peeled and deveined shrimp. Pour in the olive oil and sprinkle the blackening seasoning, salt, and pepper over the shrimp. Gently toss everything together until the shrimp are fully coated in the seasoning.
3. Preheat the Grill:
Turn on your grill or grill pan and heat it over medium-high heat. This will help the shrimp achieve that perfect char and flavor.
4. Assemble the Skewers:
Take your soaked (or metal) skewers and start threading them. Alternate the shrimp, grapefruit segments, and avocado cubes. This will create a colorful and tasty skewer. Keep doing this until all the ingredients are used up!
5. Grill the Skewers:
Carefully place the assembled skewers onto the hot grill. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, so roughly 6-7 minutes in total. You’ll know they’re done when the shrimp turns opaque and is cooked through. Flip them gently with tongs to prevent any ingredients from falling off.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once cooked, take the skewers off the grill and sprinkle the sliced green onions on top for a burst of flavor. Serve the skewers warm and, for an extra touch, you can add some additional grapefruit segments on the side for a refreshing bite. Enjoy your delicious blackened shrimp grapefruit skewers!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to completely thaw the shrimp before marinating. You can do this by placing them in the refrigerator overnight or by running them under cold water in a sealed bag for about 10-15 minutes.
What Can I Substitute for Blackening Seasoning?
If you don’t have blackening seasoning, you can make your own by combining paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, and a pinch of salt. Adjust the spice level to your taste!
How Do I Store Leftover Skewers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over low heat or pop them in the microwave for a quick reheat, but be careful not to overcook the shrimp again.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to the Skewers?
Definitely! Feel free to add bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes to the skewers for extra flavor and color. Just make sure they are cut into similar sizes to ensure even cooking!
