Description
These Spicy Shrimp and Veggie Skewers are a vibrant and flavorful dish perfect for grilling or baking. Marinated in a zesty lime and chili powder blend, the shrimp and fresh vegetables like bell pepper, zucchini, and red onion are threaded onto skewers and cooked to juicy perfection. Optional pineapple chunks add a touch of sweetness that balances the spice. Quick to prepare and ideal for a healthy meal served over rice or greens, these skewers bring a lively mix of textures and bold flavors to your dinner table.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Skewers
- 1 pound shrimp, deveined and peeled
- 1 bell pepper, any color, cut into chunks
- 1 zucchini, cut into chunks
- 1/2 red onion, cut into chunks
- 1/2 cup pineapple chunks (optional)
For the Marinade
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare the marinade: In a bowl, whisk together the lime juice, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and olive oil until well combined.
- Marinate the shrimp and veggies: Add the peeled and deveined shrimp along with the chopped bell pepper, zucchini, red onion, and pineapple chunks (if using) into the marinade. Toss to coat all ingredients evenly, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes and up to 2 hours to allow flavors to meld.
- Preheat grill or oven: If grilling, heat your grill to medium-high heat. Alternatively, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) if baking.
- Assemble the skewers: Thread the marinated shrimp and veggies onto skewers, alternating between shrimp, bell pepper, zucchini, red onion, and pineapple for balanced flavor and color.
- Cook the skewers: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 5 to 7 minutes per side, turning carefully until shrimp are opaque and cooked through and vegetables are tender. If using the oven, arrange skewers on a baking sheet and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, checking doneness.
- Serve: Transfer the cooked skewers to plates and serve immediately over a bed of rice, quinoa, or mixed greens for a complete, nutritious meal.
Notes
- For easiest handling, soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before assembling to prevent burning if grilling.
- If pineapple is not preferred, you can omit it or substitute with cherry tomatoes or mushrooms.
- Be sure not to overcook the shrimp, as they become tough and rubbery; shrimp cook quickly and are done when they turn opaque and curl slightly.
- Use metal skewers if available for easier turning and safety on the grill or oven.
- Marinating the shrimp and veggies longer than 2 hours can start to break down the shrimp and make them mushy due to the acidic lime juice.
- Serve the skewers with a cooling side like yogurt-based sauce or a fresh salad to balance the spice.
