Shrimp Kabobs Are Super Juicy And Always A Hit
When I first started cooking shrimp, it was a bit intimidating since it wasn’t something I grew up with in my Ukrainian household. Shrimp was always a restaurant treat for me, and I had no clue what terms like "peeled" and "deveined" even meant. After some research, I learned that peeling involves removing the shell, while deveining means taking out the shrimp’s digestive tract, which enhances both its texture and appearance. Once I got the hang of it, shrimp became a regular in my kitchen, especially in shrimp kabobs. Grilled with zucchini and cherry tomatoes, they’re incredibly flavorful and surprisingly easy to make. Now, serving perfectly grilled shrimp feels like a little victory in the kitchen!
Did You Know?
Shrimp is an excellent source of lean protein, making it a great choice for healthy meals. It is rich in selenium, an essential mineral with antioxidant properties that help protect cells from damage. Shrimp also contains vitamin B12, which is important for nerve function and the production of red blood cells. Adding zucchini and cherry tomatoes to your kabobs not only enhances the flavor but also boosts the nutritional value. Zucchini is low in calories and high in vitamins A and C, while cherry tomatoes are packed with antioxidants, including lycopene, which is beneficial for heart health. Grilling shrimp kabobs is a quick and easy way to enjoy these nutritious ingredients with minimal prep time.
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients:
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 zucchinis, sliced into thick rounds
1 pint cherry tomatoes
1/4 cup olive oil
3 tablespoons lemon juice
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions:
Marinate the Shrimp:
In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the shrimp and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
Personal Tip: Marinating shrimp for too long can start to cook them in the acid from the lemon juice, so stick to 30 minutes for the best texture.
Prepare Skewers:
Thread marinated shrimp, zucchini slices, and cherry tomatoes onto skewers.
Personal Tip: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes beforehand to prevent them from burning on the grill.
Grill:
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the kabobs for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp is opaque and cooked through, and the vegetables are tender.
Personal Tip: Turn the kabobs carefully to avoid losing any of the ingredients to the flames below.
Serve:
Serve hot with a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley, if desired, and a side of lemon wedges.
Personal Tip: A final squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the kabobs right before serving adds a burst of bright flavor.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 250, Protein: 25g, Carbohydrates: 10g, Sugars: 5g, Total Fat: 14g, Saturated Fat: 2g, Sodium: 600mg, Fiber: 3g
Kitchen Tips, Great Ideas, How to Save Money
- Choosing Shrimp: Opt for large or jumbo shrimp for kabobs. They are easier to skewer and less likely to overcook. Fresh shrimp is ideal, but frozen shrimp can also be used. Ensure they are fully thawed before marinating to absorb the flavors more effectively.
- Storing Leftovers: Store any leftover kabobs in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be eaten cold or reheated in a pan or on the grill for a quick and delicious meal the next day.
- Soak Wooden Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning during grilling. This simple step ensures your kabobs stay intact while cooking.
- Even Cooking: Cut zucchini into uniform thick slices to ensure even cooking. Use cherry tomatoes that are similar in size for consistency, ensuring that all ingredients are done at the same time.
- Marinade Variations: Try different marinades such as a teriyaki sauce or a spicy chili marinade to vary the flavor profile of your kabobs. Experimenting with flavors keeps the dish exciting and versatile.
- Prepping Ahead: You can marinate the shrimp and prep the vegetables ahead of time. Store them in separate containers in the refrigerator until ready to grill. This not only saves time but also infuses more flavor into the shrimp.
- Using Leftovers Creatively: Use leftover grilled shrimp kabobs in salads, wraps, or pasta dishes for a quick and easy meal the next day. Shrimp is versatile and can be incorporated into many different dishes.
- Budget-Friendly Options: Buy shrimp in bulk when they are on sale and freeze portions for later use. Fresh zucchini and cherry tomatoes can be bought in season for lower prices, making this dish more economical.
- Enhancing Flavor: Add a splash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or parsley after grilling to enhance the flavors. Fresh herbs add a burst of color and brightness to the finished dish.
- Safety Tips: Always use separate cutting boards for raw seafood and vegetables to avoid cross-contamination. Ensure shrimp is cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) to ensure safety and perfect doneness.
Let’s Learn About Cherry Tomatoes
Cherry tomatoes are a delightful addition to many dishes, not just because of their vibrant color and sweet flavor but also due to their nutritional benefits. Technically, tomatoes are a fruit, and like many fruits, they are often treated with pesticides during cultivation. To ensure that your cherry tomatoes are safe to eat, it’s important to wash them thoroughly.
Washing Cherry Tomatoes: Start by rinsing them under cold running water. For a more thorough clean, you can soak them in a solution of vinegar and water (1 part vinegar to 3 parts water) for about 10 minutes, then rinse again with fresh water. This helps to remove any pesticide residues and bacteria.
Organic Options: If possible, opt for organic cherry tomatoes. Organic tomatoes are grown without synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, making them a healthier choice for you and the environment. Plus, many people find that organic tomatoes have a richer, more intense flavor.
Microbiome Benefits: Tomatoes, including cherry tomatoes, are a good source of dietary fiber, which supports gut health by feeding the beneficial bacteria in your microbiome. A healthy microbiome is essential for overall health, including a strong immune system and good digestion. Including a variety of fruits and vegetables like tomatoes in your diet can help maintain this balance.
By choosing high-quality cherry tomatoes and washing them properly, you can enjoy their full flavor and health benefits with peace of mind.