Get ready to embark on a culinary journey that will set your palate on fire with these mouthwatering Spicy Caribbean Shrimp Skewers! Imagine succulent, perfectly grilled shrimp infused with bold jerk seasoning, zesty lime, and aromatic garlic - a Caribbean-inspired appetizer that promises to turn your ordinary meal into an extraordinary flavor adventure. Whether you're hosting a summer party or craving an exotic taste experience, these skewers are about to become your new go-to recipe that will have everyone begging for seconds!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Caribbean
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon jerk seasoning
- 1 lime, juiced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Skewers for grilling
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your ingredients. Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Make sure they are peeled and deveined for easy cooking.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the shrimp with the olive oil, jerk seasoning, lime juice, and minced garlic. Toss the shrimp until they are well coated with the marinade. Allow the shrimp to marinate for at least 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- While the shrimp is marinating, soak the skewers in water if you are using wooden ones. This will prevent them from burning on the grill.
- Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. If using an outdoor grill, ensure that the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
- Once the grill is hot, thread the marinated shrimp onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each shrimp for even cooking.
- Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them, as shrimp can become tough if cooked for too long.
- Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a minute. This will help the juices redistribute within the shrimp.
- To serve, arrange the grilled shrimp skewers on a platter. Garnish with fresh cilantro and additional lime wedges if desired. Enjoy your Spicy Caribbean Shrimp Appetizer warm!
Tips
- Marinate Magic: Allow the shrimp to marinate for at least 15-30 minutes to maximize flavor absorption. The longer they sit, the more intense the taste will be.
- Prevent Dry Shrimp: Watch your cooking time carefully! Shrimp cook quickly and can become rubbery if overcooked. 2-3 minutes per side is typically perfect.
- Wooden Skewer Hack: Always soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning.
- Freshness Matters: Use the freshest shrimp possible for the best taste and texture. Look for firm, translucent shrimp with a mild sea-like smell.
- Customize Heat Level: Adjust the jerk seasoning to suit your spice tolerance. Add more for extra kick or reduce for a milder flavor.
- Serving Suggestion: Pair these skewers with a cool, creamy dipping sauce like yogurt-based tzatziki or a lime-cilantro aioli to balance the spice.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 170mg
