These Grilled Shrimp and Peach Kabobs are a fun, colorful dish that brings together juicy shrimp and sweet peaches. Perfect for summer barbecues, they’re easy to make and taste amazing!
I love the way the shrimp and peaches caramelize on the grill. Just be ready to fight over the last skewer! 😄 You can serve these with rice or a fresh salad for a delightful meal.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are perfect for grilling, but if you can’t find them, medium-sized shrimp will work too. Frozen shrimp can be a great alternative. Just make sure to thaw them properly before marinating.
Peaches: Ripe peaches are sweet and juicy, ideal for this dish. If peaches are out of season or not available, try using nectarines or plums for a different flavor.
Olive Oil: Regular or extra virgin olive oil is great, but you can substitute it with avocado oil for a higher smoke point or even sesame oil for a unique twist.
Smoked Paprika: This gives a lovely depth of flavor. If you don’t have any, regular paprika or chili powder can be used, but the smoky flavor won’t be as pronounced.
Cayenne Pepper: This is optional, depending on your spice tolerance. You can replace it with crushed red pepper flakes for a different type of heat or simply omit it for a milder dish.
How Do I Make Sure the Shrimp Are Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking shrimp to perfection can be tricky, but with careful attention, it’s easy! Here’s how to get them just right:
- Make sure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat. This ensures a good sear and prevents sticking.
- Cook shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side. Keep an eye on them—once they turn pink and opaque, they’re done!
- Avoid overcooking as shrimp can become tough and rubbery. If they’re curled tightly, they’re likely overdone.
By following these tips, your shrimp will be juicy and tender every time!
Delicious Grilled Shrimp and Peach Kabobs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Kabobs:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 ripe peaches, pitted and cut into wedges
For the Marinade:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Additional Supplies:
- Skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 15-30 minutes to prep and marinate, plus around 10 minutes for grilling. So, plan for a quick 25-40 minutes in total for a delicious meal that’s perfect for summer evenings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using for a bit of heat), lime juice, salt, and black pepper. Stir it all together until it’s well blended. This marinade will add a fantastic flavor to the shrimp and peaches!
2. Marinate the Shrimp and Peaches:
Add the shrimp and peach wedges to the bowl with the marinade. Toss everything together gently to make sure the shrimp and peaches are nicely coated. Cover the bowl and let it sit in the refrigerator for at least 15-30 minutes. This will help the flavors to soak in.
3. Preheat the Grill:
While your shrimp and peaches are marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using wooden skewers, make sure they’ve been soaking in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
4. Assemble the Kabobs:
Carefully thread the marinated shrimp and peach wedges onto the skewers, alternating them for a colorful look. Try to fit about 4-5 pieces of shrimp and peaches on each skewer, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.
5. Grill the Kabobs:
Place the assembled skewers on the hot grill. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque and the peaches get a nice char. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once they’re done, carefully remove the skewers from the grill and let them cool for just a minute. Serve the kabobs with extra lime wedges on the side for a fresh squeeze of flavor. Enjoy your tasty grilled shrimp and peach kabobs!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for These Kabobs?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them completely before marinating. You can thaw shrimp in the refrigerator overnight or place them in a sealed bag and submerge in cold water for about 15-20 minutes. Pat them dry before marinating to ensure the marinade adheres well.
What Can I Substitute for Peaches?
If peaches aren’t in season or you want to switch things up, try using nectarines or pineapple. Both fruits will provide a delicious sweetness that pairs well with the shrimp. Just cut them into similar-sized wedges as you would with peaches.
How to Store Leftover Kabobs
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, but be careful not to overcook the shrimp again, as they can become tough.
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the marinade a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before adding the shrimp and peaches, as the ingredients may separate over time. Enjoy a quicker prep when you’re ready to cook!
