The sun is shining, and the grill is heating up – the perfect backdrop for a delicious summer gathering! I stumbled across this delightful recipe for Grilled Shrimp Piccata Skewers while planning a weekend barbecue, and ever since, they’ve become a staple in my kitchen. Imagine the juicy, tender shrimp dancing with a vibrant piccata sauce, all on skewers that make sharing and serving utterly effortless. The combination of zesty lemon, briny capers, and aromatic herbs not only elevates this meal but also brings a burst of flavor to the grilling season. With just 45 minutes from start to finish, these skewers are both quick and crowd-pleasing, making them ideal for a laid-back dinner or an impressive dish for guests. So fire up the grill and join me on this flavor-packed culinary adventure!
Why Love Grilled Shrimp Piccata Skewers?
Quick to Make: With just 45 minutes required from prep to plate, these skewers are perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.
Flavor Explosion: The zesty lemon and briny capers combine beautifully, creating a vibrant sauce that complements the juicy shrimp.
Versatile Dish: Enjoy them as a main course or appetizer; their easy-to-eat format makes them a hit at any summer barbecue.
Customizable: Feel free to swap shrimp for other proteins, or use colorful veggies for a delightful vegetarian option.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re dining with family or entertaining friends, these skewers are sure to impress and satisfy all palates!
Grilled Shrimp Piccata Skewers Ingredients
• Get ready to grill with this flavorful list!
For the Skewers
- Large tail-on shrimp – Use 16/20 count shrimp for the best texture and juiciness.
- 6 to 7 wooden or metal skewers (12”) – Soak wooden skewers in water to prevent burning during grilling.
For the Marinade
- Extra-virgin olive oil – Ideal for marinating shrimp and grilling; can substitute with canola oil if desired.
- Fresh rosemary – Adds aromatic notes; thyme or oregano can be used as alternatives.
- Crushed red pepper flakes – Introduces a mild heat that can be adjusted based on your spice tolerance.
- Garlic – Fresh garlic enhances overall flavor; always a recommended choice.
- Lemons (zested) – Provides a fresh zing; Meyer lemons offer a sweeter flavor if you prefer.
- Kosher salt – Essential for seasoning; substitute with regular salt if necessary but adjust the amount accordingly.
For the Sauce
- Shallot – Adds sweetness and depth; can be replaced with red onion in a pinch.
- Capers – Contributes a briny flavor profile; green olives can be a milder substitute.
- Dry white wine – Enhances sauce complexity; replace with chicken broth or vegetable stock for a non-alcoholic version.
- Low-sodium chicken broth – Balances flavors in the sauce; vegetable broth is a great alternative for a vegetarian dish.
- Unsalted butter – Provides richness and silkiness to the sauce; margarine can work for a dairy-free option.
- Fresh parsley – For a garnish that adds a pop of color and freshness; any fresh herb like basil can do the trick.
- Finely grated Parmesan – Adds a delicious umami flavor; use nutritional yeast for a vegan alternative.
Now you’re all set to create these delightful Grilled Shrimp Piccata Skewers that are sure to jazz up your summer meals!
How to Make Grilled Shrimp Piccata Skewers
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Soak skewers: If you’re using wooden skewers, immerse them in water for at least 15 minutes. This prevents them from burning on the grill.
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Prepare marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine extra-virgin olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, chopped fresh rosemary, crushed red pepper flakes, and kosher salt. Stir until blended well.
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Marinate shrimp: Add the large tail-on shrimp to the marinade. Mix gently to ensure each shrimp is well-coated, and let them sit for 10-15 minutes to soak up those flavors.
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Skewer shrimp: Carefully thread the marinated shrimp onto the skewers, spacing them evenly. Don’t overcrowd them; this allows for even cooking.
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Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until the shrimp turns opaque and has lovely grill marks.
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Make sauce: In a pan, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Sauté the chopped shallots until soft, then add capers, dry white wine, and low-sodium chicken broth. Let the sauce reduce by half, then stir in unsalted butter and freshly chopped parsley for that rich finish.
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Serve: Drizzle the piccata sauce generously over the grilled shrimp skewers. Garnish with finely grated Parmesan for an extra pop of flavor!
Optional: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the skewers just before serving for an even brighter taste.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Grilled Shrimp Piccata Skewers?
These vibrant skewers are perfect for a lively summer meal, full of flavor and sunshine.
- Mediterranean Chickpea Salad: A refreshing side that complements the succulent shrimp with its cool, crunchy vegetables and zesty dressing.
- Garlic Butter Breadsticks: Soft, pillowy breadsticks brushed with garlic butter are perfect for soaking up the luscious piccata sauce.
- Quinoa Tabbouleh: This herb-laden salad offers texture and a burst of freshness to balance the rich flavors of the skewers.
- Zucchini Noodles: Light and healthy, these noodles dressed in a hint of olive oil and lemon provide a wonderful, low-carb option that pairs well.
- Charred Asparagus: The slight bitterness from grilled asparagus accentuates the shrimp’s brightness, while a squeeze of lemon elevates the dish.
- Cucumber Feta Salad: A cool and tangy salad with cucumber and feta crumbles highlights the shrimp’s flavor, making it an ideal pairing.
- Sparkling White Wine: A crisp, refreshing wine enhances the overall dining experience, bringing out the bright notes in both the shrimp and the piccata sauce.
Grilled Shrimp Piccata Skewers Variations
Dive into a world of flavors by customizing these delightful skewers to suit your taste!
- Scallops: Swap shrimp for tender scallops for a delightful seafood twist. They grill beautifully and soak up the piccata sauce perfectly.
- Chicken: Use cubed chicken breast instead of shrimp for a hearty alternative. Ensure the chicken is cooked through for the best results.
- Vegetarian: Replace shrimp with colorful bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes for a vibrant and satisfying vegetarian option.
- Herb Variations: Incorporate dill or cilantro into the marinade for an added burst of flavor. Each herb offers a unique twist to the flavor profile.
- Citrus Boost: Add lime or orange zest to the marinade for a refreshing citrus spin that brightens the dish even more.
- Smoky Kick: Mix in smoked paprika for an extra layer of flavor that adds a delicious smoky depth to the dish.
- Gluten-Free Sauce: Swap the traditional white wine for coconut aminos or a gluten-free broth to keep the sauce tasty yet gluten-free.
- Extra Heat: If you love spice, increase the crushed red pepper flakes in the marinade or add diced jalapeños to the skewers for a fiery finish.
Make Ahead Options
These Grilled Shrimp Piccata Skewers are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time on busy weeknights! You can marinate the shrimp up to 24 hours in advance; simply combine the marinade ingredients and coat the shrimp, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, the skewers can be assembled and kept refrigerated for up to 2 hours before grilling, ensuring they maintain their freshness and flavor. When it’s time to serve, just preheat the grill and cook the skewers for 2-3 minutes on each side until the shrimp is juicy and perfectly charred. This way, you can enjoy restaurant-quality Grilled Shrimp Piccata Skewers with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Grilled Shrimp Piccata Skewers
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Soaking Skewers: Always soak wooden skewers in water for 15 minutes before grilling to prevent burning and assure even cooking.
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Select the Right Shrimp: Use 16/20 count shrimp for the best texture; larger shrimp hold up well on the grill and stay juicy.
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Watch the Cooking Time: Grill the shrimp only 2-3 minutes per side; overcooking can lead to a rubbery texture, so watch closely for that perfect opaque finish.
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Customize Spice Levels: Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes based on your heat preference; you can always start with less and add more later.
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Fresh Ingredients Matter: Always opt for fresh garlic and herbs; they enhance the flavors of the grilled shrimp piccata skewers more than dried alternatives ever could.
How to Store and Freeze Grilled Shrimp Piccata Skewers
Fridge: Keep any leftover grilled shrimp piccata skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the skewers in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw the frozen skewers in the fridge overnight and then warm them on a grill or in a skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes, ensuring they heat through without overcooking.
Grilled Shrimp Piccata Skewers Recipe FAQs
What type of shrimp should I use for the best texture?
Absolutely! For the best texture and juiciness, I recommend using large tail-on shrimp in the 16/20 count range. These shrimp are the perfect size for grilling, ensuring they cook evenly and hold up beautifully on the skewers.
How should I store leftover grilled shrimp piccata skewers?
To keep your delicious grilled shrimp piccata skewers fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This will help maintain their flavor and texture, ensuring you can enjoy them again!
Can I freeze the grilled shrimp piccata skewers?
Very! To freeze, lay the skewers in a single layer on a baking sheet until they are solid. This prevents them from sticking together. Once frozen, transfer the skewers to a freezer bag, and they’ll last for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge.
What can I do if my shrimp are rubbery after grilling?
If your shrimp turn out rubbery, it’s usually due to overcooking. The key is to grill them for just 2-3 minutes per side until they are opaque. Make sure to monitor them closely; they cook quickly! If you notice signs of rubberiness already, serving them with a flavorful sauce or marinade can add moisture and enhance the overall experience.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Definitely! This recipe contains shrimp, which is a common allergen, so ensure that no one in your group has shellfish allergies. For those who prefer vegetarian options, you can easily swap shrimp for large grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or even tofu for a savory twist. Just make sure to adjust the grilling time accordingly to avoid overcooking!
How can I ensure my skewers don’t burn on the grill?
To prevent burning, it’s essential to soak wooden skewers in water for at least 15 minutes before use. This will help keep them from catching fire while cooking. Additionally, preheat your grill and keep a close eye on the shrimp as they cook, turning them regularly for even grilling.
Grilled Shrimp Piccata Skewers: A Zesty Summer Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Soak skewers: If you're using wooden skewers, immerse them in water for at least 15 minutes.
- Prepare marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine extra-virgin olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, chopped fresh rosemary, crushed red pepper flakes, and kosher salt. Stir until blended well.
- Marinate shrimp: Add the large tail-on shrimp to the marinade. Mix gently to ensure each shrimp is well-coated, and let them sit for 10-15 minutes.
- Skewer shrimp: Carefully thread the marinated shrimp onto the skewers, spacing them evenly.
- Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side.
- Make sauce: In a pan, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Sauté the chopped shallots, then add capers, dry white wine, and broth. Let the sauce reduce by half, then stir in butter and freshly chopped parsley.
- Serve: Drizzle the piccata sauce over the grilled shrimp skewers. Garnish with Parmesan.