Description
Enjoy a quick and flavorful meal with these Easy Grilled Shrimp Skewers. Juicy shrimp and vibrant vegetables are seasoned with a smoky-spicy BBQ rub, then perfectly grilled to bring out their natural sweetness and charred goodness. Perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner or a summer barbecue, these skewers are simple to prepare and sure to impress.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp and Vegetables
- 1 pound raw shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1/4 cup sliced zucchini
- 1/4 cup sliced yellow squash
- 1/4 cup sliced red onions
- 1/4 cup sliced red peppers
- 1/4 cup sliced orange peppers
BBQ Sauce and Spices
- 1/2 teaspoon brown sugar or sweetener
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Soak Skewers: If using bamboo or wooden skewers, soak them in water for 20 minutes before grilling to prevent burning. Metal skewers do not require soaking.
- Prepare Grill: Coat the grill grates with oil to prevent the shrimp and vegetables from sticking. Preheat the grill to medium heat, approximately 350°F (175°C).
- Season Shrimp and Vegetables: Drizzle the shrimp and sliced vegetables with olive oil, then evenly coat them with the brown sugar, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Assemble Skewers: Thread the shrimp and vegetables alternately onto the skewers, making sure to distribute the ingredients evenly for balanced cooking.
- Grill Skewers: Place the skewers on the preheated grill. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, totaling 6-7 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through. Avoid overcooking to keep shrimp tender.
- Finish with BBQ Sauce: Remove the skewers from the grill and immediately brush them with your favorite BBQ sauce to add a sweet and smoky flavor.
Notes
- Soaking wooden skewers prevents burning during grilling.
- Preheating the grill ensures even cooking and good sear marks.
- Adjust spice levels to your taste by modifying chili powder and paprika quantities.
- Use metal skewers for quicker prep since they don’t require soaking.
- Serve with a fresh side salad or rice for a complete meal.
- Keep an eye on the shrimp to avoid overcooking, which can make them rubbery.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: grilled shrimp skewers, BBQ shrimp, grilled seafood, summer recipes, healthy grilling, shrimp and vegetable skewers
