Shrimp Kabobs on The Grill Marinade

Summer’s Must-Try Recipe: Grilled Shrimp Kabobs with Bold Marinades

There’s something magical about grilling in the summer: the sound of sizzling skewers, the wafting aroma of garlic and herbs, and the joy of sharing delicious food with loved ones. If you’re looking for a dish that captures the essence of summer, you’ve found it. Grilled shrimp kabobs with bold marinades are not only easy to make but also packed with flavor, versatile, and perfect for a variety of tastes. As someone who loves experimenting with food, I’m thrilled to share my favorite recipe, tips, and product recommendations with you. Let’s get grilling!

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Why Shrimp Kabobs Are the Best for Summer

Shrimp kabobs are a summer grilling staple because they’re quick to cook, highly customizable, and endlessly versatile. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or planning a casual family dinner, shrimp kabobs can cater to everyone’s preferences. You can pair shrimp with colorful veggies, juicy pineapple, marinated steak, or even chicken for a surf-and-turf delight.

The best part? Shrimp cooks in just a few minutes on the grill, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings. And when you add a bold marinade, the flavors truly shine. One bite of these kabobs, and you’ll understand why they’re a must-try this summer.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make these irresistible shrimp kabobs:

For the Shrimp Kabobs:

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (about 20-25 pieces)

1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks

1 yellow bell pepper, cut into chunks

1 zucchini, sliced into thick rounds

1 cup pineapple chunks

Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes)

For the Marinades (Choose One or Mix and Match):

Teriyaki Marinade:

½ cup teriyaki sauce

2 tablespoons soy sauce

1 tablespoon honey

1 teaspoon sesame oil

2 garlic cloves, minced

Mexican-Inspired Marinade:

¼ cup olive oil

Juice of 2 limes

1 teaspoon chili powder

½ teaspoon cumin

2 garlic cloves, minced

¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro

Garlic Herb Marinade:

¼ cup olive oil

Juice of 1 lemon

3 garlic cloves, minced

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried thyme

Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sides:

Mexican-style rice

Grilled corn on the cob

Summer salad (e.g., pineapple salsa or veggie slaw)

Prepping the Ingredients

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Mix the ingredients for your chosen marinade in a medium-sized bowl. Add the shrimp to the bowl, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Let the shrimp marinate in the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes. Avoid over-marinating, as the acidity can break down the shrimp’s texture.

Step 2: Assemble the Skewers

Thread the shrimp onto the skewers, alternating with bell peppers, zucchini, and pineapple chunks. If you’re also adding steak or chicken, consider using separate skewers for even cooking.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375-400°F). Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.

My Favorite Products for Perfect Kabobs

1. Cuisinart Stainless Steel Skewers

These durable stainless steel skewers are reusable, easy to clean, and designed with a flat shape to prevent food from spinning. Say goodbye to unevenly cooked kabobs! Upgrade your grilling game today.

Click here to grab your set of Cuisinart skewers and make grilling a breeze.

2. Weber Non-Stick Grill Spray

Ensure your kabobs don’t stick to the grates with this high-quality grill spray. It’s safe for high-heat grilling and makes cleanup much easier. Perfect for shrimp kabobs on the grill marinade!

Check out the Weber Grill Spray here and make grilling mess-free.

3. OXO Good Grips Basting Brush

This silicone basting brush is perfect for applying marinades or basting during grilling. It’s heat-resistant and dishwasher-safe, making it a must-have tool for any grill enthusiast.

Add the OXO Basting Brush to your cart here and elevate your marinade game.

Grilling the Kabobs

Step 1: Grill the Kabobs

Place the assembled skewers on the preheated grill. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turns pink and opaque. Rotate the skewers to ensure even cooking.

Step 2: Baste for Extra Flavor

While grilling, use a basting brush to apply extra marinade (if it hasn’t touched raw shrimp). This enhances the flavor and adds a beautiful glaze.

Step 3: Rest and Serve

Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring tender, flavorful bites.

The Best Sides to Pair with Shrimp Kabobs

Complete your meal with these easy, summer-ready sides:

1. Mexican-Style Rice: A flavorful rice dish seasoned with tomato, garlic, and spices. It pairs beautifully with the Mexican-inspired marinade.

2. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Brush corn with butter, sprinkle with chili powder, and grill until charred. Add a squeeze of lime for extra zest.

3. Pineapple Salsa: Combine diced pineapple, red onion, jalapeño, and cilantro for a refreshing side that complements teriyaki or garlic herb marinades.

4. Veggie Slaw: Shredded cabbage, carrots, and a tangy vinaigrette make for a crunchy, colorful side dish.

Why This Recipe Is the Ultimate Summer Meal

These grilled shrimp kabobs are more than just a dish—they’re an experience. From the bold flavors of the marinades to the vibrant mix of shrimp, veggies, and pineapple, every bite feels like a celebration of summer. What I love most about this recipe is its flexibility. You can tailor the marinades, switch up the veggies, or add steak and chicken for a hearty surf-and-turf option. It’s easy to prepare, visually stunning, and guaranteed to impress.

As someone who loves hosting summer gatherings, this recipe has become my go-to. I’ve shared it with friends and family, and it’s always a hit. Whether you’re a grilling novice or a seasoned pro, these shrimp kabobs will make you feel like a master of the grill.

Ready to Try It?

Now that you have everything you need, it’s time to fire up the grill and make your own shrimp kabobs. Don’t forget to share your creations with me in the comments or on social media. I’d love to see your unique twists on this summer’s must-try recipe!

Happy Grilling!