When the summer sun blazes and the evenings turn warm, nothing evokes that carefree feeling quite like the sizzle of Grilled Seafood Skewers filling the air with mouthwatering aromas. Imagine threading juicy shrimp mingled with savory sausage, vibrant vegetables, and tender potatoes, all kissed by the flames of a hot grill. This vibrant dish not only looks stunning but also delivers an explosion of flavors that transport you straight to a coastal seafood fest.
Perfect for casual backyard gatherings or a weeknight dinner, these skewers come together quickly, making them an ideal solution for anyone looking to escape the lure of fast food. You can tailor them to your taste—swap in spicy sausages or switch out seafood for a delightful vegetarian twist. The best part? They’re naturally gluten-free! So grab your grill, gather your friends and family, and let’s create an unforgettable summer meal that’s not just food, but a joyful experience.
Grilled Seafood Skewers: Why You’ll Love Them
Flavor Explosion: The combination of juicy shrimp, smoky sausage, and vibrant veggies creates a symphony of taste that will tantalize your taste buds.
Quick and Easy: Prepping these skewers takes minimal time, allowing you to enjoy more time with your guests and less time in the kitchen.
Customizable Options: Whether you want to swap sausage for chicken or make it completely vegetarian, the flexibility of this recipe makes it universally appealing.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Casual BBQs, festive family gatherings, or weeknight dinners—these skewers fit seamlessly into any summer scenario.
Health-Conscious Delight: Naturally gluten-free and packed with protein, these skewers are a guilt-free indulgence that everyone can enjoy!
Serve with Style: Pair with a refreshing green salad or some homemade coleslaw for a complete meal that looks as good as it tastes.
Grilled Seafood Skewers Ingredients
Get Ready to Grill! Here’s what you need for the perfect Grilled Seafood Skewers.
For the Skewers
- Shrimp – Use fresh or thawed frozen shrimp for maximum juiciness.
- Andouille Sausage – Adds a spicy kick; substitute with kielbasa or omit for a lighter option.
- Potatoes – Petite potatoes parboiled to ensure they’re tender and flavorful.
- Corn – Fresh corn imparts sweetness and a nice crunch; cut into rounds for easier grilling.
For the Seasoning
- Tony Chachere’s Seasoning – This spice blend elevates the flavor profile of your skewers.
For the Garlic Butter
- Unsalted Butter – Forms the base of your rich garlic butter; can use a dairy-free alternative if desired.
- Garlic – Freshly minced garlic brings an aromatic depth that complements the seafood beautifully.
- Lemon Juice – Optional, but it adds a bright zing to enhance your garlic butter sauce.
These Grilled Seafood Skewers are sure to be the highlight of your summer gatherings! Enjoy the process and the delightful flavors they bring to your table.
How to Make Grilled Seafood Skewers
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Prepare Vegetables: Boil salted water in a large pot and cook petite potatoes for 12-15 minutes until they’re tender. Add fresh corn during the last 5 minutes for a sweet crunch, then drain and let cool.
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Assemble Skewers: Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning. Alternately thread shrimp, sausage, potatoes, and corn onto each skewer, creating a colorful arrangement. Brush lightly with oil and sprinkle Tony Chachere’s seasoning for flavor.
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Make Garlic Butter: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt unsalted butter and stir in minced garlic and the same seasoning used earlier. Allow it to simmer gently for 2-3 minutes. If you want a bit of brightness, squeeze in some fresh lemon juice.
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Grill Skewers: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill each skewer for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally and basting with the garlic butter until they’re cooked through and nicely charred.
Optional: Serve with lemon wedges for an extra burst of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for Grilled Seafood Skewers
Room Temperature: Serve skewers immediately after grilling for the best flavor; they should not sit out for more than 2 hours.
Fridge: Leftover Grilled Seafood Skewers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the shrimp.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cooked skewers wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat skewers in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or on the grill for a few minutes, basting with garlic butter for added moisture and flavor.
What to Serve with Grilled Seafood Skewers?
Savor the delightful combination of flavors and textures alongside these beautiful skewers for a complete summer feast.
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Refreshing Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens and a citrus vinaigrette balances the richness of garlic butter.
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Homemade Coleslaw: Crisp and creamy coleslaw provides a crunchy contrast, adding freshness to each bite.
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Grilled Vegetable Medley: Colorful seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus complement the smoky flavors of the skewers beautifully.
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Herbed Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice infused with herbs creates a hearty side that absorbs the delicious garlic butter drippings.
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Zesty Lemon Wedges: Enhancing the brightness of the seafood, a squeeze of fresh lemon elevates the flavors and adds a refreshing punch.
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Crispy Baguette Slices: Serve with bread to soak up extra garlic butter sauce. The crispy texture creates a lovely contrast to the tender skewers.
For drinks, pair with a chilled white wine or a crisp lemonade to create a mouthwatering summer gathering that delights both sight and taste!
Grilled Seafood Skewers Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative with these dishes, customizing them to suit your taste and dietary needs while still savoring those incredible summer flavors!
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Chicken Sausage: Swap out Andouille sausage for chicken sausage for a milder taste without sacrificing flavor.
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Vegetarian Delight: Omit sausage entirely and pile on more veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms for a hearty plant-based version.
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Seafood Swap: Experiment with different seafood like scallops or chunks of salmon for a unique twist on the traditional shrimp.
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Herb-Infused Butter: Add fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro to the garlic butter for an aromatic flair that brightens each bite.
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Spicy Kick: Sprinkle some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños on your skewers for a delightful heat that enhances the smoky flavors.
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Citrus Burst: Mix lemon and lime juice into the garlic butter to create a zesty sauce that pairs perfectly with seafood.
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Sweet Glaze: Brush your skewers with a honey or maple syrup glaze before grilling for a sweet caramelization that compliments the savory ingredients.
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Grilled Pineapple: Add chunks of fresh pineapple to your skewers for a burst of sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the savory sausage and shrimp.
Expert Tips for Grilled Seafood Skewers
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Soak Skewers: Soaking wooden skewers for 30 minutes prevents them from burning on the grill, ensuring that your Grilled Seafood Skewers cook perfectly.
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Thaw Shrimp Thoroughly: If using frozen shrimp, be sure they are fully thawed and patted dry. This helps them grill evenly and avoids excess moisture.
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Baste for Flavor: Continuously baste skewers with garlic butter while grilling to infuse them with flavor and maintain moisture, enhancing the overall taste.
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Veggie Variety: Don’t hesitate to mix in other vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini for added color and nutrients, making your Grilled Seafood Skewers even more delightful.
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Watch Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the skewers while grilling. Overcooking can lead to rubbery shrimp; aim for that perfect char in about 8-10 minutes.
Make Ahead Options
Grilled Seafood Skewers are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time on busy weeknights! You can marinate the shrimp and assemble the skewers up to 24 hours in advance, placing them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to grill. It’s best to keep the garlic butter separate until grilling to maintain its fresh flavor and avoid sogginess. When you’re ready to cook, simply preheat your grill and grill the skewers for about 8-10 minutes, basting with garlic butter as they cook. This method ensures that your Grilled Seafood Skewers retain their delightful taste and juiciness, allowing you to serve up a restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort!
Grilled Seafood Skewers Recipe FAQs
What type of shrimp should I use?
Absolutely! For the best results, I recommend using fresh shrimp or fully thawed frozen shrimp. Look for shrimp that are firm to the touch, with a mild ocean scent. Avoid any that have dark spots or an overly pungent smell.
How should I store leftover skewers?
Leftover Grilled Seafood Skewers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When storing, make sure to separate the skewers to keep them fresh. Gently reheat them in the oven at 350°F or grill briefly, basting with garlic butter to maintain moisture and flavor.
Can I freeze the skewers?
Yes, you can freeze cooked skewers for later enjoyment! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight and reheat gently.
What if my shrimp are overcooked?
If your shrimp end up overcooked and rubbery, you can try soaking them in a light marinade of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs to help tenderize them. Moving forward, watch the grill time carefully—your shrimp should be perfectly cooked in 8-10 minutes.
Are these skewers suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Very much so! These Grilled Seafood Skewers are naturally gluten-free as long as you ensure that all ingredients, especially the seasoning and sauces, are gluten-free. This makes them perfect for anyone avoiding gluten while still enjoying a delicious summer meal.
Can I add other vegetables to the skewers?
The more the merrier! Feel free to mix in colorful veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. These not only add visual appeal but also enhance the flavor and nutritional profile of your grilled skewers!
Grilled Seafood Skewers Are the Pinnacle of Summer Flavor
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Boil salted water in a large pot and cook petite potatoes for 12-15 minutes until tender. Add fresh corn during the last 5 minutes, then drain and let cool.
- Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning. Alternately thread shrimp, sausage, potatoes, and corn onto each skewer.
- In a saucepan, melt unsalted butter and stir in minced garlic and seasoning. Simmer gently for 2-3 minutes, add lemon juice if desired.
- Preheat grill to medium-high. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes, basting with garlic butter until cooked through.