If you’re looking for a simple and flavorful seafood dish, look no further than Rosemary Garlic Shrimp Kabobs. These kabobs are a crowd-pleaser, perfect for outdoor grilling or even indoor cooking.
The combination of rosemary and garlic adds a burst of aromatic flavor to the tender shrimp, making them absolutely irresistible.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound of large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons of fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon of lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
- Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, rosemary, lemon zest, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if desired). Mix well to create a marinade.
2. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the marinade, ensuring that each piece is evenly coated. Let the shrimp marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, or alternatively, preheat a grill pan on the stovetop over medium-high heat.
4. Thread the marinated shrimp onto the soaked wooden skewers, making sure to leave a small gap between each piece. This will allow the shrimp to cook evenly.
5. Place the shrimp kabobs on the preheated grill or grill pan, cooking for approximately 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turns pink and opaque.
6. Once cooked, remove the shrimp kabobs from the heat and serve immediately. These kabobs are perfect on their own as an appetizer or can be served over a bed of rice with grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
Tips for Perfect Shrimp Kabobs:
1. Choose large shrimp: Opt for large shrimp for this recipe as they hold up better on the grill and are easier to thread onto the skewers.
2. Soak the skewers: Soaking the wooden skewers in water prevents them from burning on the grill. It also helps to keep the shrimp from sticking to the skewers.
3. Don’t overcook the shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly, so keep a close eye on them to avoid overcooking. Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery and lose their natural sweetness.
4. Customize the marinade: Feel free to experiment with additional herbs and spices to customize the marinade according to your taste. Some popular additions include paprika, thyme, or even a splash of your favorite hot sauce.
5. Serve with dipping sauces: If you’re looking to add an extra layer of flavor, serve your Rosemary Garlic Shrimp Kabobs with a variety of dipping sauces such as a tangy cocktail sauce, spicy aioli, or even a refreshing tzatziki sauce.
6. Alternate ingredients: Although this recipe focuses on rosemary and garlic, you can also experiment with other herbs and flavors. Try using cilantro and lime for a fresh and zesty twist, or dill and lemon for a Mediterranean-inspired version.
So, fire up your grill and give these Rosemary Garlic Shrimp Kabobs a try. With their robust flavors and succulent texture, they are sure to become a favorite among seafood lovers.
Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, these kabobs will undoubtedly impress your family and friends.