Blackened Shrimp Skewers Recipe

Picture this: You’re lounging in your backyard on a warm summer evening, ready to turn some shrimp into a flavor-packed delight that’ll have your taste buds doing a happy dance. With a sprinkle of spices and a squeeze of lemon, my blackened shrimp skewers bring the sizzle of the grill right to your plate. Let’s dive into this flavorful fiesta!

I adore how Blackened Shrimp Skewers present a fusion of spices so vivid that the flavor blasts through to the tongue. And yet, they do it in such an unassuming way that they invade neither the polite company of the plate nor the confines of one’s mouth in an aggressive manner.

The shrimp, more a vessel than an ingredient in this case, might be dismissed as healthy, except that shrimp are kind of awesome when you think about it.

Blackened Shrimp Skewers Recipe Ingredients

• Shrimp: Rich source of protein, low in calories and fat.
• Olive Oil: Contains healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants.
• Paprika: Adds a smoky, mildly spicy flavor, and is high in antioxidants.
• Cayenne Pepper: Provides heat, boosts metabolism, and is rich in vitamins.
• Lemon Wedges: Brightens flavor with acidity, high in vitamin C.

Blackened Shrimp Skewers Recipe Ingredient Quantities

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• Lemon wedges, for serving

How to Make this Blackened Shrimp Skewers Recipe

1. In a large bowl, mix together the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, dried thyme, dried oregano, black pepper, and salt to create the blackened spice blend.

2. Add the shrimp, which have been peeled and deveined, to the bowl and drizzle with olive oil. Toss the shrimp in the spice blend until evenly coated.

3. Warm up your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat until it is good and hot.

4. Skewering the shrimp is easier when using larger, seasoned shrimp. More space between each shrimp on the skewer means better heat circulation and more evenly cooked shrimp.

5. When the grill is hot, put the skewers on the grill.

6. For approximately 2-3 minutes on each side, cook the shrimp, which should become opaque and somewhat charred around the edges when finished.

7. Once the shrimp are fully cooked, take the skewers off the grill.

8. The skewers of shrimp should be allowed to sit for a minute or two before being served.

9. Serve the shrimp skewers that have been blackened hot alongside lemon wedges.

10. Just before eating, squeeze fresh lemon over the shrimp for a burst of citrus flavor. Enjoy!

Blackened Shrimp Skewers Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Large bowl
2. Measuring spoons
3. Grill or grill pan
4. Skewers
5. Tongs
6. Serving platter

FAQ

• Q: Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?A: Yes, just be certain to thaw them completely and give them a good pat-down to dry before you put them to use.
• Q: What is the best way to grill these skewers?A: Prepare the grill for medium-high heat and cook the skewers over it, 2-3 minutes per side, until the shrimp become opaque.
• Q: Can I adjust the spice level?Of course! You can change the amount of cayenne pepper in the recipe to make it more or less spicy, depending on your taste.
• Q: Is it necessary to soak wooden skewers?A: Certainly, place them in water for no less than half an hour to avoid incinerating them.
• Q: What can I serve with blackened shrimp skewers?Completed meal can consist of rice, salad, or grilled vegetables served on the side.
• Q: How can I ensure my shrimp are evenly cooked?A: Skewers should be arranged with the shrimp in a single layer for even cooking. The skewers should not be overcrowded. When you skewer the shrimp, leave some space between each piece so that they don’t stew in their own juices.
• Q: Can I make the spice mix in advance?A: Absolutely, the spice blend can be made in advance and kept in a well-sealed container.

Blackened Shrimp Skewers Recipe Substitutions and Variations

Olive oil: Substituting with avocado oil or melted coconut oil provides a different flavor profile.
Paprika: Use smoked paprika for a smoky taste or chili powder for an extra kick.
Garlic powder: Fresh minced garlic can be used as an alternative, using about 3 cloves.
Cayenne pepper: Adapt the heat by replacing it with crushed red pepper or removing it for a milder option.
Thyme, dried: Substitute fresh thyme at the ratio of 1 teaspoon dried thyme to 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, or use rosemary for an equally flavorful but different herbaceous note.

Pro Tips

1. To enhance the flavor, marinate the shrimp in the spice blend and olive oil for 15-30 minutes before grilling. This allows the spices to penetrate the shrimp more deeply.

2. Use metal skewers if possible or soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes prior to grilling to prevent burning.

3. For even better char and flavor, try adding a small amount of smoked paprika in place of regular paprika to give the shrimp a smokier taste.

4. Ensure your grill grates are clean and well-oiled to prevent the shrimp from sticking. This will also help achieve those nice grill marks.

5. To add a fresh herbal note, consider garnishing the finished shrimp skewers with chopped fresh parsley or cilantro just before serving.