Southwestern Skewers

Southwestern Skewers Recipe - Delicious Chicken Skewers with Cilantro and Taco Seasoning

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 8 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Southwestern Skewers are a delicious and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for a summer barbecue or a quick weeknight dinner. These skewers are packed with flavor and are sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

History

The origins of Southwestern Skewers can be traced back to the Southwestern region of the United States, where the flavors of Mexican and American cuisine come together to create a unique and delicious dish. The combination of spicy taco seasoning, tangy salsa, and creamy sour cream make these skewers a favorite among food lovers.

Ingredients

1 cup of sour cream
1 cup of salsa
2 tbsp of chopped fresh cilantro
1 (1.25 oz (35 g)) envelope of taco seasoning mix, divided
1.5 lb (680 g) of boneless, skinless chicken breast or beef flank steak, cut into 1 inch chunks
36 (6- to 8 inches) skewers

How to prepare

In a medium bowl, combine the sour cream, salsa, cilantro, and 1 tsp of taco seasoning. Mix well and cover. Chill until ready to serve.
In a large bowl, toss the chunks of chicken or beef with the remaining taco seasoning. Mix well.
Coat a large nonstick skillet with nonstick cooking spray and heat over medium-high heat.
Add the chicken or beef chunks to the skillet and sauté for 6 to 8 minutes, or until desired doneness.
Skewer each piece and place on a serving platter. Serve with the salsa dipping sauce and garnish with cilantro sprigs.

Variations

Use shrimp or tofu instead of chicken or beef for a seafood or vegetarian option.
Add bell peppers, onions, or cherry tomatoes to the skewers for extra flavor and color.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to marinate the chicken or beef in the taco seasoning for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to fully develop.

- Soak the skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before threading the meat onto them to prevent them from burning on the grill.

- Don't overcrowd the skewers - leave some space between the pieces of meat to ensure even cooking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Southwestern Skewers with a side of rice, beans, or a salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Grilling the skewers on a barbecue or indoor grill will give them a delicious smoky flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a healthier alternative.

- Use homemade taco seasoning instead of the store-bought mix for a more personalized flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

You can marinate the chicken or beef in the taco seasoning the night before to save time on the day of cooking.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the skewers on a platter with a drizzle of the salsa dipping sauce and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Southwestern Skewers pair well with a cold beer, a margarita, or a glass of iced tea.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the grill until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Southwestern Skewers contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Southwestern Skewers contains approximately 5 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Southwestern Skewers contains approximately 10 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Southwestern Skewers contains approximately 25 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Southwestern Skewers are a good source of vitamin C, iron, and calcium.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (sour cream) and may contain gluten (taco seasoning). Please check the labels of your ingredients if you have allergies.

Summary

Southwestern Skewers are a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. They are also a good source of vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Southwestern Skewers are a delicious and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for a summer barbecue or a quick weeknight dinner. Packed with flavor and protein, these skewers are sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of anticipation I felt when I first discovered this recipe for Southwestern Skewers. It was many years ago, during a family trip to New Mexico. We were staying at a quaint bed and breakfast in Santa Fe, surrounded by the beautiful desert landscape and vibrant culture of the Southwest.

One evening, the owner of the bed and breakfast invited us to a traditional barbecue dinner out on the patio. As we sat around the fire pit, enjoying the warm evening air and the sound of crickets chirping in the distance, the owner started grilling up these incredible skewers. The aroma of cumin, chili powder, and garlic filled the air, making my mouth water with anticipation.

I watched as she marinated the chunks of tender steak in a spicy mixture of spices and lime juice, then threaded them onto skewers with colorful bell peppers, onions, and cherry tomatoes. The skewers sizzled and charred on the grill, creating a mouthwatering aroma that made my stomach growl with hunger.

When the skewers were finally done cooking, we gathered around the picnic table and dug in. The flavors were incredible – smoky and spicy, with a hint of sweetness from the caramelized vegetables. I couldn't get enough of them, and I knew I had to learn how to make them myself.

The owner of the bed and breakfast was kind enough to share her recipe with me, and I've been making these Southwestern Skewers ever since. They've become a family favorite, perfect for summer barbecues or cozy winter dinners by the fire.

To make these delicious skewers, start by marinating chunks of steak in a mixture of cumin, chili powder, garlic, lime juice, and a touch of olive oil. Let the meat sit in the marinade for at least an hour, allowing the flavors to penetrate the meat and tenderize it.

While the meat is marinating, chop up colorful bell peppers, onions, and cherry tomatoes. Thread the marinated steak and vegetables onto skewers, alternating the ingredients to create a beautiful rainbow of colors and flavors.

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, then cook the skewers for about 10-12 minutes, turning them occasionally to ensure even cooking. The meat should be slightly charred on the outside and juicy and tender on the inside.

Serve the Southwestern Skewers hot off the grill, garnished with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice. They pair perfectly with a side of rice or a crisp green salad.

As I sit here reminiscing about that magical evening in Santa Fe, I can't help but smile. The flavors of the Southwest have become a cherished part of my culinary repertoire, thanks to that unforgettable experience and the generosity of the kind woman who shared her recipe with me.

I hope you enjoy making these Southwestern Skewers as much as I do. May they bring a taste of the desert landscape and vibrant culture of the Southwest into your home, filling it with warmth and flavor. Bon appétit!