Bangin’ Grilled Shrimp Skewers

These Bangin’ Grilled Shrimp Skewers are a must-try for anyone looking to spice up their meal routine! Perfect for gatherings, casual dinners, or a quick lunch, these skewers deliver a delightful blend of flavors that everyone will love. The creamy chili sauce adds a unique twist, making this dish stand out from typical shrimp recipes. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or simply want something tasty and fun to eat, these skewers are sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep and 8 minutes of cooking time, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of spicy Sriracha and sweet chili sauce gives these skewers an irresistible flavor profile.
• Versatile Dish: Great as an appetizer or main course, these skewers fit perfectly in any meal plan.
• Healthier Choice: Packed with protein and relatively low in calories, they make for a satisfying yet light option.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for parties or family gatherings, these skewers are sure to be a hit with everyone.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare your Bangin’ Grilled Shrimp Skewers efficiently, it’s essential to have the right tools on hand. Below is a list of essential equipment you’ll need for this recipe.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grilling skewers (wooden or metal)
• Mixing bowl
• Grill
• Basting brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Grilling skewers: These hold the shrimp together while cooking and make flipping easy on the grill.
• Mixing bowl: A good mixing bowl allows you to combine all your sauces and ingredients effectively without mess.
• Grill: The heart of this recipe! A clean grill ensures even cooking and char marks that enhance flavor.
• Basting brush: Use this tool to apply sauce evenly over the shrimp after grilling for maximum flavor.

Ingredients

To create these delicious Bangin’ Grilled Shrimp Skewers, gather the following ingredients:

For the Sauce

• 2 1/2 tbsp light mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp scallions (chopped fine)
• 1 1/2 tbsp Thai Sweet Chili Sauce
• 1/2 tsp Sriracha (or to taste)

For the Shrimp

• 40 large (12.8 oz raw shrimp, shelled and deveined)
• fresh cracked pepper
• oil spray

How to Make Bangin’ Grilled Shrimp Skewers

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

1. In a small mixing bowl, combine the light mayonnaise, scallions, Thai Sweet Chili Sauce, and Sriracha.
2. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined. Set aside for later use.

Step 2: Soak Your Skewers

1. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 20 minutes. This prevents them from burning on the grill.
2. Alternatively, opt for metal skewers to skip this step entirely.

Step 3: Season the Shrimp

1. Take your shelled and deveined shrimp and season them lightly with fresh cracked pepper.

Step 4: Assemble the Skewers

1. Thread five shrimp onto each skewer until all shrimp are used up (you should have eight skewers total).

Step 5: Preheat the Grill

1. Heat a clean grill over medium heat.
2. Lightly oil the grill surface to prevent sticking.

Step 6: Grill the Shrimp

1. Once the grill is hot, add your prepared shrimp skewers carefully.
2. Grill on both sides for about 6–8 minutes total or until shrimp are opaque and cooked through.

Step 7: Serve with Sauce

1. Remove grilled shrimp from the grill and place them on a serving platter.
2. Quickly brush your prepared sauce onto each skewer before serving warm.

Enjoy your Bangin’ Grilled Shrimp Skewers as an appetizer or main dish that’s sure to please any crowd!

How to Serve Bangin’ Grilled Shrimp Skewers

These Bangin’ Grilled Shrimp Skewers are perfect for a variety of occasions. Whether you are hosting a backyard barbecue or simply enjoying a cozy dinner at home, here are some delicious serving suggestions.

With Fresh Salads

• Green Salad: Serve with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to balance the flavors of the skewers.
• Mango Avocado Salad: The sweetness of mango and creaminess of avocado complement the spicy shrimp beautifully.

Accompanied by Dipping Sauces

• Spicy Garlic Sauce: Provide an extra kick by offering a spicy garlic sauce for dipping.
• Creamy Cilantro Lime Sauce: This refreshing sauce enhances the shrimp’s flavor with zesty notes.

On Rice or Quinoa

• Coconut Rice: Serve the shrimp atop coconut rice for a tropical twist that pairs well with the chili sauce.
• Herbed Quinoa: A light herbed quinoa adds texture and absorbs all the delicious juices from the shrimp.

As Part of a Platter

• Mixed Meat Platter: Include these skewers in a mixed meat platter featuring grilled chicken and vegetables for variety.
• Seafood Platter: Pair with other seafood delights like grilled scallops or fish for an impressive spread.

How to Perfect Bangin’ Grilled Shrimp Skewers

To ensure your Bangin’ Grilled Shrimp Skewers turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Marinate Ahead: Let the shrimp marinate for 30 minutes before grilling to enhance the flavors.
• Preheat Your Grill: Make sure your grill is properly preheated to medium heat to cook the shrimp evenly.
• Avoid Overcrowding Skewers: Space out the shrimp on skewers to allow even cooking and prevent steaming.
• Watch Cooking Time: Grill shrimp until they are just opaque, typically taking about 6-8 minutes total; overcooking can make them tough.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh shrimp and ingredients to elevate your dish’s taste.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add spices or herbs like paprika or cilantro for added flavor dimensions.

Best Side Dishes for Bangin’ Grilled Shrimp Skewers

Pairing side dishes with your Bangin’ Grilled Shrimp Skewers can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread makes a delicious accompaniment for soaking up any leftover sauce.
2. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus bring color and nutrition to your plate.
3. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds texture and contrasts nicely with the smoky flavor of grilled shrimp.
4. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob is always a hit; try grilling it alongside your skewers for extra char flavor.
5. Rice Pilaf: Flavorful rice pilaf with herbs complements the spice of the shrimp without overpowering them.
6. Chickpea Salad: A protein-packed chickpea salad provides fiber and freshness, balancing out your meal nicely.
7. Couscous Salad: Light couscous salad filled with veggies is quick to prepare and adds delightful fluffiness.
8. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs can satisfy those craving something hearty alongside their proteins.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Grilling shrimp can be a bit tricky, but avoiding common mistakes will help you achieve perfect Bangin’ Grilled Shrimp Skewers every time.

• Boldly skip soaking skewers: If you’re using wooden skewers, not soaking them can lead to burning on the grill. Soak in water for at least 20 minutes to prevent this.
• Boldly over-seasoning: Adding too much seasoning can overpower the natural flavor of the shrimp. A light sprinkle of fresh cracked pepper is all you need.
• Boldly neglecting shrimp size: Using smaller shrimp may cook too quickly and become tough. Opt for large shrimp for better texture and flavor retention.
• Boldly undercooking or overcooking: It’s crucial to watch your cooking time closely. Shrimp should be cooked until opaque, usually around 6-8 minutes total.
• Boldly ignoring sauce timing: Brushing sauce on your shrimp too early can cause it to burn. Apply the sauce just after removing them from the grill for maximum flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Bangin’ Grilled Shrimp Skewers in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 2 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Bangin’ Grilled Shrimp Skewers

• Freeze grilled shrimp skewers in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be kept frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Bangin’ Grilled Shrimp Skewers

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place skewers on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for about 1-2 minutes until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and warm the skewers for about 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Bangin’ Grilled Shrimp Skewers.

How do I choose the best shrimp for grilling?

Look for large, fresh shrimp that are firm and have a slight sheen. Frozen shrimp works well too; just ensure they are fully thawed before grilling.

Can I use different sauces for Bangin’ Grilled Shrimp Skewers?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different sauces like teriyaki or garlic butter for unique flavors.

How do I know when my shrimp are done grilling?

Shrimp are fully cooked when they turn opaque and have a firm texture. This usually takes around 6-8 minutes on medium heat.

Are Bangin’ Grilled Shrimp Skewers suitable as an appetizer?

Yes! These skewers make an excellent appetizer or light lunch option that everyone will enjoy.

Final Thoughts

Bangin’ Grilled Shrimp Skewers are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with various sauces or vegetables on the skewers. Whether you serve them as an appetizer or main dish, these skewers are sure to impress your guests. Give them a try today!