These Caribbean Jerk Shrimp Skewers are packed with bold flavors! Imagine juicy shrimp marinated in spices like thyme and allspice, then grilled to perfection.
They’re perfect for a summer BBQ, and the best part? You can eat them like a snack! I love serving them with a side of cool dipping sauce for extra fun. 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are best for this dish. If you can’t find large ones, medium will work too. For a plant-based option, consider using firm tofu or veggies instead!
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple gives a sweet contrast to the spicy jerk seasoning. If fresh isn’t available, canned pineapple chunks work, but drain them well to avoid excess moisture.
Red Bell Pepper: This adds a nice crunch and sweetness. You can substitute with green bell pepper, zucchini, or even cherry tomatoes if you prefer more color.
Jerk Seasoning: You can use a store-bought blend or make your own! Combining spices like allspice, thyme, and cayenne makes for a great homemade version. Adjust for heat as desired.
Greek Yogurt: This dipping sauce provides a creamy contrast. If you want a dairy-free option, use coconut yogurt or cashew cream instead.
How Do I Grill the Shrimp Perfectly?
Grilling shrimp can be tricky! To ensure they cook perfectly, remember these tips:
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat — this helps get those nice grill marks.
- Soak wooden skewers for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning. Metal skewers don’t need soaking.
- Cook the shrimp for just 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn opaque. Overcooking can make them rubbery.
Keep an eye on the shrimp as they cook; they change color quickly! This keeps the dish juicy and flavorful.
Caribbean Jerk Shrimp Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Skewers:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp Caribbean jerk seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp fresh grated ginger
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
For the Dipping Sauce (optional):
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 1 tsp lime juice
- 1 tsp honey
- 1/2 tsp jerk seasoning
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 10 minutes to cook on the grill. Including the marinade time, plan for about 1 hour and 15 minutes total (30-60 minutes to marinate in the fridge).
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, jerk seasoning, lime juice, minced garlic, grated ginger, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until well mixed. This flavorful marinade will coat the shrimp beautifully!
2. Marinate the Shrimp:
Add the shrimp to the marinade, tossing them gently to ensure they are coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Let the shrimp marinate for at least 30 minutes, but you can leave them for up to 1 hour for more intense flavor.
3. Prepare the Skewers:
Once marinaded, thread the shrimp, pineapple chunks, and red bell pepper pieces onto the soaked wooden skewers. Alternate the shrimp and veggies for a colorful presentation.
4. Preheat the Grill:
Get your grill or grill pan ready by preheating it to medium-high heat. If you’re using a grill pan, you may want to add a little oil to prevent sticking.
5. Grill the Skewers:
Place the skewers on the hot grill. Grill them for about 2-3 minutes on each side. You want the shrimp to be opaque and cooked through, while the vegetables should get a nice char. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking!
6. Make the Dipping Sauce (Optional):
While the skewers cook, whisk together the Greek yogurt, lime juice, honey, and jerk seasoning in a small bowl. Taste it and adjust the seasoning if necessary! This cool sauce pairs perfectly with the spicy shrimp.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once the skewers are done, remove them from the grill and sprinkle with freshly chopped cilantro for a pop of color and freshness. Serve them hot with the dipping sauce on the side.
Enjoy your delicious and vibrant Caribbean Jerk Shrimp Skewers! The flavors will surely transport you to a tropical paradise! 🌴🍤
Can I Make This Recipe with Chicken Instead of Shrimp?
Absolutely! You can substitute shrimp with boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time; chicken will typically take about 6-8 minutes per side on the grill until fully cooked.
How Do I Customize the Spice Level?
If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of jerk seasoning in the marinade. Alternatively, you can include extra ingredients like honey or yogurt in the dipping sauce to balance the heat.
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just ensure they are fully thawed before marinating. The easiest way to thaw shrimp is to leave them in the refrigerator overnight or place them in a sealed bag submerged in cold water for about 30 minutes.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, use a microwave or warm them gently in a skillet over low heat, taking care not to overcook the shrimp again! You can refrigerate any extra dipping sauce separately as well.
