Shrimp Skewers with Mango Salsa

This grilled shrimp skewer recipe transforms ordinary seafood into a spectacular summer meal with minimal effort. The bright citrus marinade infuses the shrimp with zesty flavor while the optional spices add just the right amount of heat. Paired with a vibrant mango-pineapple salsa, it's the perfect dish for outdoor entertaining or a quick weeknight dinner.

I first made these skewers for a beach cookout with friends, and they've become my signature summer dish. The combination of juicy shrimp and tropical salsa reminds me of vacations in coastal Mexico, even when I'm just in my backyard.

Ingredients

• Shrimp: preferably large or jumbo size for easier skewering and juicier results
• Olive oil: creates the base for the marinade while helping the shrimp stay moist
• Honey or agave: adds a subtle sweetness that balances the citrus and spices
• Shallot: provides a milder, more elegant flavor than regular onion
• Garlic cloves: fresh is essential here for the best flavor impact
• Orange and lime zest: the oils in the zest infuse the marinade with bright citrus notes without making it too acidic
• Sea salt: kosher or flaky sea salt works best for more even flavor distribution
• Black pepper: freshly ground makes a noticeable difference in taste
• Spice blend: the combination of cumin, coriander, cayenne, and chili powder creates depth without overwhelming the shrimp
• Skewers: metal works best for even cooking, but bamboo will work if properly soaked

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the shrimp:

Clean and prepare your shrimp according to your preference. I recommend leaving the tails on for a better presentation and easier handling. Pat them dry with paper towels to help the marinade adhere better. Place prepared shrimp in a large bowl with plenty of room for tossing.

Mix the marinade:

In a separate bowl, combine olive oil, honey or agave, minced shallot, minced garlic, orange zest, lime zest, sea salt, black pepper, and your spice blend if using. Whisk thoroughly until everything is well incorporated. The marinade should look slightly emulsified and fragrant. Pour this mixture over the shrimp and gently toss until every piece is evenly coated.

Marinate:

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes. The marinade works quickly due to the citrus elements, but you can leave it for up to a few hours for deeper flavor. Avoid marinating overnight as the citrus can start to cook the shrimp.

Preheat and prepare grill:

Heat your grill to medium high heat around 400°F. Thoroughly clean the grates with a wire brush to remove any residue that might cause sticking. Just before cooking, use a pair of tongs to hold a wad of paper towels dipped in high heat oil to grease the grates. This crucial step prevents the shrimp from sticking.

Skewer the shrimp:

Thread the marinated shrimp onto your skewers, allowing a tiny bit of space between each piece to ensure even cooking. If using bamboo skewers, make sure they've been soaked in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning. For easier turning, thread each shrimp so it forms a C shape on the skewer.

Grill to perfection:

Place the prepared skewers on the hottest part of the grill. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes on the first side until you see the shrimp begin to turn pink and slightly opaque. Flip once and cook another 2 to 3 minutes on the second side. The shrimp are done when they turn completely pink, slightly firm to the touch, and opaque throughout. Be careful not to overcook as they can become rubbery.

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One summer, my daughter who typically avoided seafood requested these shrimp skewers for her birthday dinner. The bright flavors and fun presentation completely changed her mind about shrimp, and now it's a tradition we look forward to every year. I think it's the combination of slightly sweet honey and aromatic citrus zest that makes even seafood skeptics into believers.

Indoor Cooking Options

Not everyone has access to an outdoor grill, but these shrimp skewers can be just as delicious when cooked indoors. A grill pan on high heat works wonderfully, giving you those beautiful grill marks without the open flame. Alternatively, you can broil the skewers for 2 minutes per side on a foil lined baking sheet placed about 6 inches from the heating element. For apartment dwellers, even a hot cast iron skillet can produce excellent results, though you may want to cook the shrimp without skewers in this case for better contact with the pan.

Making the Perfect Mango Pineapple Salsa

The ideal companion for these shrimp skewers is a fresh, vibrant mango pineapple salsa. Combine diced ripe mango, fresh pineapple chunks, finely diced red onion, minced jalapeño, chopped cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. The sweetness of the fruit balances beautifully with the savory spiced shrimp. For best results, make the salsa at least an hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together. The natural acidity in the fruits also helps balance the richness of the grilled shrimp.

Sustainable Seafood Choices

When selecting shrimp for this recipe, consider sustainable options. Look for shrimp labeled with certifications like Marine Stewardship Council or Best Aquaculture Practices. Wild caught Gulf or Pacific shrimp from the US are generally good choices, while some imported farmed shrimp can have environmental concerns. Your fishmonger can usually provide information about sourcing. Frozen shrimp are often a more sustainable option than "fresh" shrimp, which may have been frozen and thawed already. Quality frozen shrimp, properly thawed overnight in the refrigerator, will yield excellent results in this recipe.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I prepare shrimp for skewers?

Peel and devein the shrimp if desired, or leave them unpeeled for a rustic look. Pat them dry before marinating and threading onto skewers.

→ What marinade works best for shrimp skewers?

A marinade blending olive oil, citrus zest, garlic, spices, and an optional hint of honey or agave keeps shrimp juicy and flavorful.

→ Should I soak bamboo skewers before grilling?

Yes, soak bamboo skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before use to prevent them from burning on the grill.

→ How long should I grill the shrimp?

Grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side, depending on their size. Shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque.

→ What can I serve alongside shrimp skewers?

Pair shrimp skewers with green salad, grilled vegetables, rice, or beans. A tropical salsa, like mango-pineapple, is a great accompaniment.