These Easy Blackened Shrimp Grapefruit Skewers are a fun mix of spicy shrimp and refreshing grapefruit. They’re perfect for a sunny day or a tasty dinner treat!
Nothing beats the flavor of smoky shrimp paired with juicy grapefruit. I love serving these at parties; they add a splash of color and taste that everyone enjoys! 🍤🍊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Use large shrimp for the best texture. If you can’t find fresh ones, frozen shrimp work well too. Just remember to thaw them properly before cooking! I love using shrimp because they absorb flavors so nicely.
Blackened seasoning: The mix of spices is key here. If you don’t have a store-bought seasoning, you can make your own with paprika, cayenne pepper, and garlic powder. I often tweak these to my taste, adding a pinch of sugar for a touch of sweetness.
Grapefruit: If grapefruits are not available, you can substitute with oranges or even sliced mango for a different flavor twist. I find grapefruit adds a unique tartness that pairs wonderfully with shrimp.
Avocado: If you’re not an avocado fan, you can skip it or replace it with cucumber for a fresh crunch. I really enjoy the creaminess of avocado, which complements the other ingredients well!
How Do You Get the Perfect Blackened Shrimp?
Getting that perfect blackened texture on your shrimp is all about the cooking technique. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure your skillet is hot; this helps get that lovely sear. Use a cast-iron skillet if you have one!
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches if necessary to maintain high heat.
- Cook shrimp for just 2-3 minutes on each side. Flip them when you see that beautiful orange-pink color starting to rise!
Following these tips will ensure your shrimp are flavorful and have that perfect blackened edge! Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Blackened Shrimp Grapefruit Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 teaspoons blackened seasoning (you can mix paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper)
- 1 grapefruit, peeled and segmented (make sure to remove the membranes)
- 1 avocado, peeled, pitted, and cut into chunks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- Bamboo skewers
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and another 10 minutes to cook. Altogether, you’ll only need about 25 minutes to create these flavorful skewers! Perfect for a quick meal or an appetizer for your guests.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Shrimp:
In a bowl, toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with olive oil and blackened seasoning. Make sure every shrimp is evenly coated. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to soak up all those tasty flavors.
2. Cook the Shrimp:
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat until it’s nice and hot. Add the shrimp and cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re done when they turn pink and opaque. Once cooked, remove them from the heat.
3. Assemble the Skewers:
Grab your bamboo skewers and start threading them. Begin with a chunk of avocado, then add a grapefruit segment followed by a blackened shrimp. Repeat until all ingredients are used up. This layering makes for a bright and colorful presentation!
4. Plate Them Up:
Carefully arrange the skewers on a lovely serving platter. This gives your dish an inviting look and makes it easy for guests to grab one.
5. Add the Finishing Touches:
Sprinkle the sliced green onions over the skewers for a pop of color and crunch, and you’re ready to serve.
6. Enjoy!
These skewers can be served immediately as a refreshing appetizer or a light meal. The combination of smoky shrimp, sweet grapefruit, and creamy avocado is sure to impress! Enjoy your delicious creation!
FAQ for Easy Blackened Shrimp Grapefruit Skewers
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the frozen shrimp completely before marinating. The best way to thaw is to place them in the refrigerator overnight, or if you’re short on time, put them in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water for about 20-30 minutes.
How Can I Adjust the Spiciness of the Blackened Seasoning?
If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the cayenne pepper in the blackened seasoning. Alternatively, try adding a teaspoon of brown sugar to balance out the heat without losing the essence of the seasoning blend. Feel free to customize it to your taste!
How Do I Store Leftover Skewers?
Store any leftover skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. If you’re planning to keep them longer, I recommend removing the shrimp from the skewers and storing them separately. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat.
Can I Make These Skewers Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare and thread the skewers a few hours in advance. Just keep them covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook. That way, they make for a quick, stress-free meal or appetizer when guests arrive!