Grilled shrimp and peach kabobs are a fun and tasty treat! Juicy shrimp and sweet peaches come together on a stick for a perfect summer meal. They’re easy to make and packed with flavor!
These kabobs always impress at summer BBQs. I love the mix of flavors, especially when the shrimp gets that smoky touch. Perfect with a side salad or just straight off the grill! 🍑
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large, peeled, and deveined shrimp are perfect for these kabobs. If shrimp isn’t available, try using scallops or even chunks of firm fish like swordfish or salmon.
Peaches: Ripe peaches add a wonderful sweetness. If peaches are out of season, consider using nectarines or even pineapple for a tropical spin. Canned peaches can work too; just make sure to drain them well.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is my favorite for its rich flavor. If you’re looking for a different taste, avocado oil or grapeseed oil can both be good alternatives.
Smoked Paprika: This gives a lovely smoky flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika or a pinch of cayenne pepper can add some heat instead.
Honey: For a more tangy sweetness, maple syrup or agave nectar are great substitutes. If you’re looking to avoid sugar, try using a sugar-free sweetener.
How Do I Grill Shrimp Perfectly without Overcooking Them?
Grilling shrimp can be tricky since they can quickly turn rubbery if overcooked. Here’s how to ensure they stay juicy:
- Marinate for 15-30 minutes but don’t go longer, as this can break down the shrimp.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high, which helps cook them fast without drying out.
- Keep an eye on them! Grill for 2-3 minutes on each side. They change color to pink when done.
Remember, the key is to not leave them on too long. Enjoy those tender kabobs!
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)
For the Marinade:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Additional:
- Skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak in water for at least 30 minutes)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation, and you’ll need another 15-30 minutes for marinating the shrimp and peaches. In total, you should plan for about 30-45 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and delicious meal perfect for a sunny day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This will get it nice and hot to cook your kabobs perfectly!
2. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, combine the olive oil, honey, lime juice, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Whisk them together until well mixed. This will create a flavorful marinade that will make your kabobs taste amazing!
3. Marinate the Shrimp and Peaches:
Add the cleaned shrimp and peach wedges to the marinade. Gently toss everything together, making sure the shrimp and peaches are evenly coated. Let them marinate for about 15-30 minutes. This little wait will enhance the flavor!
4. Assemble the Kabobs:
After marinating, take your skewers and thread the shrimp and peach wedges onto them, alternating between the shrimp and peaches. This will make for a colorful and appetizing kabob!
5. Grill the Kabobs:
When the grill is hot, place the skewers on the grill. Grill the kabobs for about 2-3 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re ready when the shrimp turns pink and the peaches develop nice grill marks!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once grilled, remove the kabobs from the grill and serve them immediately. For an extra zesty kick, you can add lime wedges on the side for drizzling. Enjoy your delicious grilled shrimp and peach kabobs!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before marinating. The best way to do this is to leave them in the fridge overnight or place them in a sealed bag under cold running water for about 10-15 minutes.
What Can I Substitute for Peaches?
If peaches are out of season or not available, nectarines or plums work wonderfully as a substitute! You can also try using pineapple chunks for a tropical twist. Just keep in mind that different fruits may have slightly different cooking times, so monitor them closely while grilling.
How Do I Store Leftover Kabobs?
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for a quick meal or place them back on a grill or stovetop pan until warmed through, taking care not to overcook the shrimp.
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the marinade up to a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just be sure to give it a good stir before marinating the shrimp and peaches, as the ingredients may separate over time.
