These Caribbean Jerk Shrimp Skewers bring a taste of the islands right to your grill! Marinated in a spicy jerk sauce, they’re packed with flavor and juicy goodness.
Just imagine the smoky scent wafting through the air as you cook! I love serving these with a side of rice or fresh veggies. They’re perfect for summer BBQs or quick weeknight dinners!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp work best for skewers. If you’re allergic, feel free to use firm fish like salmon or chicken. For a vegan option, try marinated tofu or mushrooms.
Caribbean Jerk Seasoning: You can buy this seasoning or make your own using spices like allspice, thyme, and cinnamon. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount or use a different spice blend.
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple really adds sweetness. If it’s not available, use canned pineapple chunks (drained) or mango for a similar tropical flavor.
Red Bell Pepper: These add color and crunch. You can replace them with other bell peppers or even zucchini for a different twist.
How Do I Get Perfectly Grilled Shrimp?
Getting juicy shrimp with a nice char is easier than you think! First, ensure your grill is preheated to medium-high. The key is to avoid overcooking the shrimp.
- Watch them carefully; they only need about 2-3 minutes on each side. They should be opaque when done.
- A tip: If using wooden skewers, soaking them prevents burning.
- For added flavor, consider basting the shrimp with extra marinade during grilling.
With these tips, you’ll achieve delicious, perfectly grilled Caribbean Jerk Shrimp Skewers every time!
Caribbean Jerk Shrimp Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails on
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons Caribbean jerk seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 2 teaspoons brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges, for serving
- Optional: small bowl of jerk sauce or glaze for dipping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 6-8 minutes to cook on the grill! Plus, you’ll want to allow at least 30 minutes for marinating the shrimp, so plan for around 1 hour total. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun cookout with friends!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, Caribbean jerk seasoning, lime juice, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated fresh ginger, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything well to create a flavorful marinade.
2. Marinate the Shrimp:
Add the shrimp to the marinade and gently toss them until they’re evenly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour, to let all those tasty flavors soak in.
3. Preheat the Grill:
While the shrimp is marinating, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 20 minutes. This will help prevent them from burning while you cook.
4. Assemble the Skewers:
Once marinated, take the shrimp out of the fridge. Thread the shrimp, red bell pepper pieces, and fresh pineapple chunks onto the skewers, alternating each item. This not only looks great but adds bursts of flavor with each bite!
5. Grill the Skewers:
Place the skewers on the preheated grill. Grill for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until the shrimp turn opaque and curl up, and the pineapple and peppers show slight char marks.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the skewers from the grill and transfer them to a serving platter. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro to add a pop of color and flavor. Serve them with lime wedges and a small bowl of extra jerk sauce for dipping if desired.
Enjoy these flavorful, juicy Caribbean Jerk Shrimp Skewers hot off the grill. They’re sure to impress your family and friends!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them completely before marinating. The best way to thaw shrimp is by placing them in the refrigerator overnight or by running them under cold water in a sealed bag for about 15-20 minutes.
How Long Can the Shrimp Marinate?
For the best flavor, aim to marinate the shrimp for at least 30 minutes and up to 1 hour. If you marinate them longer, just be cautious, as the acid in the lime juice can begin to “cook” the shrimp and affect their texture.
Can I Substitute the Pineapple or Bell Peppers?
Absolutely! If you don’t have pineapple, you can use mango or even zucchini for a different flavor. For the bell peppers, any color will work—green, yellow, or orange—so feel free to use your favorites!
How Do I Store Leftover Skewers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply warm them gently in a skillet or microwave. Enjoy them in salads or as part of a wrap for a quick meal!
