Shrimp Kabobs

Delicious Shrimp Kabobs Recipe with Vegetables and Salad Dressing

Preparation time: 2 hours | Cooking time: 6 minutes | Servings: 8

Introduction

Shrimp kabobs are a delicious and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for grilling season. These kabobs are made with juicy shrimp, fresh vegetables, and a flavorful marinade that will have your taste buds dancing. Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue or just looking for a quick and healthy meal, shrimp kabobs are sure to be a hit.

History

Shrimp kabobs have been a popular dish for centuries, with origins in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine. The combination of shrimp, vegetables, and marinade skewered and grilled over an open flame is a classic cooking technique that has been passed down through generations. Today, shrimp kabobs are enjoyed all over the world and can be customized with a variety of seasonings and ingredients.

Ingredients

1 cup of italian salad dressing, divided
2 lb (907 g) of uncooked jumbo shrimp, peeled and de-veined
2 large onions
16 large fresh mushrooms
2 large green peppers, cut into 1.5 inch pieces
16 cherry tomatoes

How to prepare

In a large resealable plastic bag, combine 0.5 cup of salad dressing and the shrimp.
Cut each onion into eight wedges.
In another large resealable plastic bag, combine the vegetables and the remaining salad dressing. Seal the bags and turn to coat. Refrigerate for 2 hours, turning occasionally.
Drain the bags and discard the marinade.
On eight metal or soaked wooden skewers, alternately thread the shrimp and vegetables.
Grill the kabobs, covered, over medium heat for 3 minutes on each side or until the shrimp turn pink.

Variations

Try using different vegetables like zucchini, cherry peppers, or pineapple for a unique twist on the classic shrimp kabob recipe.
Experiment with different marinades such as teriyaki, lemon herb, or spicy chili for a variety of flavor profiles.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before threading the shrimp and vegetables to prevent them from burning on the grill.

- Make sure to preheat your grill before cooking the kabobs to ensure even cooking and a nice char on the shrimp and vegetables.

- Don't overcook the shrimp, as they can become tough and rubbery. Cook them just until they turn pink and opaque.

- Feel free to customize the marinade with your favorite herbs and spices to suit your taste preferences.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the shrimp kabobs with a side of rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Grilling

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use chicken, beef, or tofu in place of shrimp for a different protein option.

- Substitute the Italian salad dressing with a homemade marinade using olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs.

Make Ahead Tips

You can marinate the shrimp and vegetables ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before grilling.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the shrimp kabobs on a platter with a sprinkle of fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon for a beautiful and appetizing presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair the shrimp kabobs with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light beer for a refreshing and complementary beverage.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover shrimp kabobs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the oven or on the grill until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

300 per serving

Carbohydrates

15g per serving

Fats

12g per serving

Proteins

25g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Shrimp is a good source of vitamin B12, vitamin D, and selenium, while vegetables like peppers and tomatoes provide vitamin C and antioxidants.

Alergens

Shellfish (shrimp)

Summary

Shrimp kabobs are a nutritious and protein-packed meal that is low in carbohydrates and calories. They are a great option for those looking to enjoy a flavorful and satisfying dish without the guilt.

Summary

Shrimp kabobs are a versatile and delicious dish that is perfect for any occasion. With a simple marinade, fresh ingredients, and a hot grill, you can create a flavorful and healthy meal that will impress your family and friends. Whether you're cooking for a crowd or just enjoying a quiet dinner at home, shrimp kabobs are sure to be a hit.

How did I get this recipe?

I recall the feeling of curiosity that washed over me when I found this recipe for Shrimp Kabobs. It was a hot summer day, and I was rummaging through a dusty old cookbook that I had inherited from my own grandmother. As I turned the yellowed pages, a faded piece of paper fell out and fluttered to the ground. Picking it up, I saw that it was a hand-written recipe for Shrimp Kabobs.

The recipe was simple yet intriguing, calling for fresh shrimp, colorful bell peppers, juicy pineapple chunks, and a tangy marinade made with soy sauce, honey, and garlic. I had never made Shrimp Kabobs before, but something about the recipe spoke to me. I could almost taste the savory-sweet flavors mingling together on the grill, the shrimp turning pink and juicy, the vegetables caramelizing and releasing their natural sweetness.

I decided to give it a try, gathering all the ingredients and following the instructions carefully. As I threaded the shrimp, peppers, and pineapple onto skewers, I felt a sense of anticipation building inside me. The smell of the marinade filled the kitchen, making my mouth water in anticipation of the feast to come.

When the kabobs were finally ready, I couldn't wait to dig in. The first bite was a revelation - the shrimp were perfectly cooked, tender and succulent, with a hint of smoky char from the grill. The peppers and pineapple had caramelized beautifully, adding a burst of sweetness and color to each bite. The marinade had worked its magic, infusing the kabobs with a rich, complex flavor that danced on my taste buds.

I shared the Shrimp Kabobs with my family that evening, and they were an instant hit. My husband declared them the best thing I had ever made, and my children begged for seconds and thirds. As we sat around the table, laughing and chatting, the empty skewers piled high in front of us, I felt a sense of pride and satisfaction wash over me. This recipe had brought us together, creating a delicious memory that would last a lifetime.

Over the years, I have made Shrimp Kabobs many times, tweaking the recipe here and there to suit my taste. Sometimes I add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for heat. Other times I swap out the veggies for whatever is in season, or experiment with different marinades to keep things interesting.

But no matter how I make them, Shrimp Kabobs always bring me back to that hot summer day when I first discovered the recipe. They remind me of the joy of cooking and sharing meals with loved ones, of the simple pleasure of good food and good company. And they remind me of the power of curiosity, of how a little spark of interest can lead to a delicious adventure that feeds both body and soul.

So here's to Shrimp Kabobs, a recipe that has become a beloved tradition in our family. May they continue to bring us together, one delicious bite at a time.