Get ready to transform your ordinary weeknight dinner into a Mediterranean culinary adventure! These Garlic and Red Pepper Shrimp Skewers are not just a meal; they're a flavor explosion that will transport you straight to the sun-drenched coastlines of the Mediterranean. With just 25 minutes of total cooking time, you'll create a restaurant-quality dish that's guaranteed to impress your family and friends, and leave them begging for seconds.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Wooden skewers, soaked in water
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the wooden skewers. Soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill.
- While the skewers are soaking, prepare the shrimp. Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Ensure they are peeled and deveined.
- In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the minced garlic, red pepper flakes, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a marinade.
- Add the shrimp to the bowl with the marinade. Toss the shrimp until they are evenly coated with the garlic and red pepper mixture. Let the shrimp marinate for about 10-15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. If using a grill, ensure it is clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
- Once the grill is hot, take the soaked wooden skewers and thread the marinated shrimp onto them. Be sure to leave a little space between each shrimp for even cooking.
- Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become tough.
- Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a minute. Serve the garlic and red pepper shrimp skewers warm, garnished with fresh herbs or lemon wedges if desired.
- Enjoy your Mediterranean-inspired meal with a side of salad or crusty bread to soak up the delicious flavors!
Tips
- Skewer Success: Always soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from burning. This simple step ensures your skewers stay intact and don't catch fire on the grill.
- Marinade Magic: Don't rush the marinating process. Let the shrimp sit in the garlic and red pepper mixture for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to fully penetrate the meat.
- Grill Temperature Matters: Use medium-high heat to achieve those perfect grill marks and prevent overcooking. Shrimp cook quickly, so watch them closely!
- Even Cooking Tip: Leave a small space between shrimp on the skewer to ensure they cook evenly and get that beautiful caramelized exterior.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair these skewers with a fresh Mediterranean salad, crusty bread, or over a bed of light couscous for a complete meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 150kcal
Carbohydrates: 1g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 170mg
