When summer rolls in, nothing beats the joy of grilling. One delicious option that not only delivers flavor but is incredibly simple to prepare is Asian Marinated Grilled Shrimp Skewers. These zesty, succulent shrimp skewers are marinated to perfection, bringing a delightful burst of Asian flavors to your table. Did you know that shrimp are not only incredibly tasty but also one of the fastest seafood options to cook? They go from the grill to your plate in no time, making this dish a fantastic choice for busy weeknights or casual summer gatherings. Plus, kids love the fun of eating food off a stick!
If you enjoy this dish, you’ll also want to check out my recipe for Grilled Pineapple Chicken Kabobs – another simple and family-friendly recipe that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Ready to make grilling your new favorite activity? Let’s dive into the deliciousness of these Asian Marinated Grilled Shrimp Skewers!
What are Asian Marinated Grilled Shrimp Skewers?
Now, we might be asking ourselves – what’s in a name, right? “Asian Marinated Grilled Shrimp Skewers” might sound fancy, but it’s basically a party on a stick! You get the juicy, tender shrimp kissed by flames, suspended between two pieces of bamboo that make it look like the chef was a grill-master pro. And if grilling shrimp while pretending to take on Gordon Ramsay’s culinary challenges makes you feel cool, then we’re all for it! The only thing that might rival these skewers in irresistibility is the classic saying: “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach.” So, next time you want to impress someone special (or just enjoy a fantastic meal), whip up these skewers!
Why You’ll Love These Asian Marinated Grilled Shrimp Skewers
First off, let’s talk about the shrimp. The main highlight of these skewers is how easily they soak up the marinade, which is a tantalizing blend of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. They’re practically bursting with flavor, making each bite a delightful explosion in your mouth. Secondly, making these skewers at home is a cost-saver. You won’t break the bank by dining out at a fancy seafood restaurant, plus you can customize the marinade to fit your taste buds perfectly. Finally, with simple ingredients that come together quickly, you have a dish that’s not only delicious but also super easy to prepare. If you’re a fan of tasty seafood dishes like honey-glazed salmon, then these shrimp skewers are a must-try for your next meal! So, gather your ingredients and get ready to grill!
How to Make Asian Marinated Grilled Shrimp Skewers
Quick Overview
Let’s cut to the chase! These Asian Marinated Grilled Shrimp Skewers are not only delicious but also incredibly simple to whip up. In just about 20 minutes including marinating time, you’ll have tender, juicy shrimp skewers ready to tantalize your taste buds against the smoky backdrop of a hot grill.
Key Ingredients for Asian Marinated Grilled Shrimp Skewers
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Green onions for garnish
- Bamboo skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Marinate the Shrimp: In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, garlic, ginger, rice vinegar, and red pepper flakes. Add the shrimp and toss to coat them in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for 15-30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Prepare the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
- Skewer the Shrimp: Thread the marinated shrimp onto soaked bamboo skewers, leaving a little space between each shrimp to ensure even cooking.
- Grill: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remember, shrimp cook fast, so don’t wander off!
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the grill, sprinkle with chopped green onions, and serve with your favorite dipping sauce or over a bed of rice.
What to Serve Asian Marinated Grilled Shrimp Skewers With
These shrimp skewers pair excellently with a side of jasmine rice tossed in sesame oil, or perhaps a refreshing Asian slaw that complements the savory flavors beautifully. For drinks, a chilled glass of sweet iced green tea or a light white wine like Sauvignon Blanc would make perfect companions. You could even try adding a small bowl of spicy sriracha sauce for those who crave some extra heat!
Top Tips for Perfecting Asian Marinated Grilled Shrimp Skewers
- Use fresh shrimp: The fresher your shrimp, the better the taste. Look for shrimp that are firm and smell like the ocean.
- Don’t over-marinate: While these shrimp love the marinade, leaving them too long can make them mushy. Stick to 30 minutes max!
- Soak your skewers: Soaking bamboo skewers in water for at least 30 minutes prevents them from burning during grilling.
- Experiment with flavors: Feel free to switch up the marinade! Try adding lime juice or honey for a different twist or even toss in vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini for a complete meal.
Storing and Reheating Tips
If you’ve got leftovers (which is rare with these!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture. While you can technically freeze cooked shrimp, they might lose their texture upon thawing, so it’s best to enjoy them fresh. If you plan to make extra for future meals, consider freezing the marinated shrimp before cooking. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
In conclusion, these Asian Marinated Grilled Shrimp Skewers are a delightful combination of simplicity and flavor, perfect for any dining occasion. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to impress. So, why not gather the ingredients, fire up your grill, and indulge in a taste of Asia tonight? You and your family are in for a treat!
Asian Marinated Grilled Shrimp Skewers
Ingredients
For the marinade
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
For the skewers
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Green onions for garnish
- Bamboo skewers soaked in water for 30 minutes
Instructions
Marinating
- In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, garlic, ginger, rice vinegar, and red pepper flakes. Add the shrimp and toss to coat them in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for 15-30 minutes.
Preparation
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
Skewering
- Thread the marinated shrimp onto soaked bamboo skewers, leaving a little space between each shrimp.
Grilling
- Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
Serving
- Remove from the grill, sprinkle with chopped green onions, and serve with your favorite dipping sauce or over a bed of rice.
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