Grilled Steak and Shrimp Skewers
If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with bold flavors and perfect for any occasion, look no further than these easy Grilled Steak and Shrimp Skewers. This recipe combines tender, juicy steak with succulent shrimp, grilled to perfection for a smoky char that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re firing up the grill for a summer BBQ or seeking a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner, these skewers are a flavorful and impressive choice that’s simple to prepare yet delivers big on taste.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of juicy steak and marinated shrimp creates a delightful balance of rich and fresh flavors.
- Quick and Easy: Minimal prep and fast grilling make this recipe perfect for busy nights or casual gatherings.
- Customizable: You can switch up the marinades, veggies, and seasoning to suit your mood or dietary needs.
- Perfect for Socializing: Skewers are ideal for sharing and make an attractive addition to any grill spread.
- Healthy and Balanced: Packed with protein and optional veggies, this dish supports a wholesome lifestyle without sacrificing taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that each play a vital role in building layers of texture, taste, and color. Fresh steak and shrimp are the stars, while the marinade and accompanying veggies bring brightness and depth.
- Steak: Choose a tender cut like sirloin or ribeye for juicy bites that grill beautifully.
- Shrimp: Use peeled, deveined shrimp for ease and a smooth grilling experience.
- Olive Oil: Adds richness and helps keep the meat and shrimp moist.
- Lemon Juice: Provides a fresh, tangy contrast that enhances the seafood and beef flavors.
- Garlic: Brings savory warmth and depth to the marinade.
- Fresh Herbs: Parsley or cilantro brighten the dish with herbal notes.
- Bell Peppers and Red Onion: Add crunch, sweetness, and vibrant color.
- Spices: Smoked paprika, salt, and pepper give a smoky, balanced seasoning.
Variations for Grilled Steak and Shrimp Skewers
One of the best parts about grilled steak and shrimp skewers is how adaptable the recipe is. Feel free to experiment with different marinades, vegetables, or even proteins to customize it to your taste or dietary needs.
- Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the marinade for some heat.
- Asian-Inspired: Swap lemon juice for lime and add soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace steak and shrimp with firm tofu and hearty mushrooms.
- Herb Variety: Use fresh basil, rosemary, or thyme to change up aromatic profiles.
- Citrus Twist: Use orange or grapefruit juice instead of lemon for fruity brightness.
How to Make Grilled Steak and Shrimp Skewers
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well blended to create a vibrant and flavorful marinade base.
Step 2: Marinate the Steak and Shrimp
Slice the steak into bite-sized chunks and toss with half of the marinade. Do the same with peeled and deveined shrimp, coating them evenly. Refrigerate both for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Step 3: Assemble the Skewers
Thread alternating pieces of steak, shrimp, bell peppers, and red onion onto skewers. This layering ensures each bite offers a delicious mix of juicy protein and crisp veggies.
Step 4: Preheat the Grill
Heat your grill to medium-high. Ensure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking—this helps achieve those classic grill marks.
Step 5: Grill the Skewers
Place the assembled skewers on the grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, turning carefully until the shrimp are opaque and the steak reaches your desired doneness.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Remove the skewers from the grill and let rest for a few minutes to seal in the juices. Then, sprinkle with fresh chopped herbs before serving.
Pro Tips for Making Grilled Steak and Shrimp Skewers
- Use High-Quality Meat: Better steak means juicier skewers and a richer flavor.
- Don’t Overcrowd Skewers: Leaving space allows for even cooking and crispy edges.
- Soak Wooden Skewers: Prevent them from burning by soaking in water for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat the Grill Properly: Ensures a perfect sear and quick cooking time.
- Check Cooking Times: Shrimp cooks faster than steak, so grill accordingly to avoid toughness.
How to Serve Grilled Steak and Shrimp Skewers
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro really elevate these skewers. A squeeze of lime or lemon juice just before serving adds a zesty freshness that brightens every bite.
Side Dishes
Pair with grilled vegetables, a crisp green salad, or even a light couscous or quinoa salad to round out your meal with plenty of color and texture.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve skewers directly on a large wooden board layered with leafy greens for a rustic look, or arrange individually on plates with dipping sauces like garlic aioli, chimichurri, or spicy sriracha mayo.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place leftover skewers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Store steak and shrimp separately from veggies if you want them to maintain their best texture.
Freezing
Grilled steak and shrimp skewers can be frozen, but it’s best to remove the veggies first to avoid sogginess. Wrap tightly in foil and place in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating
For best results, reheat skewers gently in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving to maintain juicy texture and grilled flavor.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp works fine as long as you thaw and pat them dry completely before marinating to ensure even cooking.
What if I don’t have a grill?
You can use a grill pan or broiler to cook the skewers indoors; just watch closely to avoid overcooking.
How long can I marinate the steak and shrimp?
Marinate for at least 30 minutes, but no longer than 2 hours to maintain texture and avoid overpowering acidity.
Can I make these skewers gluten-free?
Absolutely! This recipe is naturally gluten-free, especially if you avoid soy sauce or use a gluten-free version.
What sides pair best with grilled steak and shrimp skewers?
Light salads, grilled corn, roasted potatoes, or Mediterranean-style grains are all excellent companions to balance the richness.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like sitting down to a vibrant plate of grilled steak and shrimp skewers that are easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for any occasion. This recipe brings a delicious mix of textures and taste that will quickly become a favorite in your cooking rotation. Fire up the grill, gather your ingredients, and enjoy every juicy bite!
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PrintGrilled Steak and Shrimp Skewers
Easy Grilled Steak and Shrimp Skewers combine tender, juicy steak with succulent shrimp marinated in a flavorful blend of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and spices, then grilled to smoky perfection. Perfect for BBQs or quick weeknight dinners, these skewers offer a balanced, protein-packed meal with vibrant veggies and customizable seasoning options.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12-16 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
Proteins
- 1 lb tender steak (sirloin or ribeye), cut into bite-sized chunks
- 1 lb peeled and deveined shrimp
Marinade
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Vegetables
- 1 large bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 medium red onion, cut into chunks
Garnishes (optional)
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
- Lime or lemon wedges
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well blended to create a vibrant and flavorful marinade base.
- Marinate the Steak and Shrimp: Slice the steak into bite-sized chunks and toss with half of the marinade. Do the same with peeled and deveined shrimp, coating them evenly. Refrigerate both for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Assemble the Skewers: Thread alternating pieces of steak, shrimp, bell peppers, and red onion onto skewers. This layering ensures each bite offers a delicious mix of juicy protein and crisp veggies.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high. Ensure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking—this helps achieve those classic grill marks.
- Grill the Skewers: Place the assembled skewers on the grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, turning carefully until the shrimp are opaque and the steak reaches your desired doneness.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the skewers from the grill and let rest for a few minutes to seal in the juices. Then, sprinkle with fresh chopped herbs before serving.
Notes
- Use high-quality steak for juicier, more flavorful skewers.
- Do not overcrowd skewers; leave space for even cooking and crispy edges.
- Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
- Preheat the grill properly to achieve a perfect sear and quick cooking.
- Shrimp cooks faster than steak, so monitor cooking times carefully to avoid toughness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 2 skewers)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
Keywords: grilled steak and shrimp skewers, barbecue recipe, easy skewers, summer grilling, gluten-free skewers, surf and turf skewers
