These Grilled Shrimp and Peach Kabobs are a tasty summer treat! Juicy shrimp and sweet peaches get a nice char on the grill, making them perfect for outdoor fun or a cozy evening.
Honestly, who knew shrimp and peaches could be such great pals? I love serving these with a side of rice or a fresh salad for a colorful meal. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp work best for grilling. You can substitute with scallops or chicken if you prefer. Just ensure they are cut into similar sizes for even cooking.
Peaches: Ripe peaches add sweetness, but feel free to use nectarines or even pineapple if peaches aren’t in season. They will grill similarly and provide a lovely flavor.
Olive Oil: This helps blend the spices and keeps everything moist. If needed, use avocado oil or any neutral oil. These options have a higher smoke point for grilling.
Spices: Smoked paprika gives a nice flavor twist. If you don’t have it, regular paprika or even cayenne for heat works well. Garlic and onion powders are easy to replace with fresh minced versions, just use less since they’re stronger.
How Do I Make Sure My Kabobs Don’t Stick to the Grill?
Preventing sticky kabobs can be tricky but simple with these tips. First, ensure your grill is clean. A hot grill helps create a natural non-stick surface. Preheat it to medium-high heat before placing the kabobs.
- Brush the grill grates lightly with oil before cooking.
- Don’t flip the kabobs too soon; let them sear for a couple of minutes to build a crust.
- Try using metal skewers, as they conduct heat better and enhance caramelization.
How to Make Grilled Shrimp and Peach Kabobs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Kabobs:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 ripe peaches, pitted and cut into wedges
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
For the Marinade:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Juice of 1 lime
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 25-30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and marinating, and 15-20 minutes grilling. Enjoy the quick and flavorful process!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Soak the Skewers:
If you’re using wooden skewers, make sure to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes. This helps prevent them from burning on the grill while cooking your kabobs.
2. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and lime juice. Stir well to combine all the flavors into a tasty marinade.
3. Marinate the Shrimp and Peaches:
Add the peeled and deveined shrimp and the peach wedges to the marinade. Gently toss them around until they are well coated in all that deliciousness. Let them sit and marinate for about 15-20 minutes while you preheat the grill.
4. Preheat the Grill:
Get your grill ready by preheating it to medium-high heat. This is the perfect temperature for getting that beautiful char on your kabobs!
5. Assemble the Kabobs:
Carefully thread the marinated shrimp and peach wedges onto the skewers. Alternate between shrimp and peaches, making them look great and ensuring a tasty bite every time!
6. Grill the Kabobs:
Place the kabobs on the hot grill and let them cook for approximately 2-3 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re done when the shrimp turn pink and opaque, and the peaches have lovely grill marks.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the kabobs from the grill and serve them right away. You can garnish with lime wedges for an extra splash of flavor. Enjoy your delicious Grilled Shrimp and Peach Kabobs!
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 to place them in a bowl of cold water for about 15-20 minutes or let them sit in the fridge overnight.
What Can I Substitute for Peaches?
If you can’t find peaches or prefer another fruit, nectarines or plums also work great in this recipe! Just cut them into wedges similar to the peaches for even cooking.
How Should I Store Leftover Kabobs?
Store any leftover kabobs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, you can gently warm them in a skillet on low heat or in the microwave for about 30 seconds, being careful not to overcook the shrimp.
Can I Make This Recipe in the Oven Instead?
Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through until the shrimp are cooked through and the peaches are caramelized.
