These Easy Blackened Shrimp Grapefruit Skewers are a fun and zesty dish! The shrimp gets a spicy blackened seasoning, while the juicy grapefruit adds a sweet and tangy twist.
Perfect for summer BBQs or a quick dinner, these skewers are a real treat. I love how simple they are to make! Just grill, serve, and enjoy the bright flavors. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are perfect as they grill quickly and have a nice texture. If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use scallops or even firm fish like salmon or mahi-mahi.
Blackened Seasoning: This blend gives the shrimp a bold flavor. If you don’t have it, mix equal parts paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. You can even adjust the heat level by using less or more cayenne!
Grapefruit: This adds a sweet-tangy contrast to the shrimp. If you’re not a grapefruit fan, orange segments or even pineapple can work just as well for a delicious twist!
Avocado: Avocado provides a creamy element. If you’re looking for a lighter option, mango chunks can be a sweet substitute or try cucumber for a crisp contrast.
How Do You Get the Perfect Blackened Shrimp?
Getting your shrimp perfectly blackened is all about timing and heat! First, make sure your grill is hot to create that nice sear and crust.
- Heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high; this is key! If it’s not hot enough, the shrimp will just steam instead of blacken.
- Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side. Watch them closely; when they turn opaque and curl slightly, they’re ready!
- Don’t overcrowd the pan or grill. Cook in batches if needed to ensure they get that perfect char.
Mastering these tips ensures your shrimp will be flavorful and perfectly blackened every time!
Easy Blackened Shrimp Grapefruit Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 teaspoons blackened seasoning (store-bought or homemade; e.g., paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, salt, pepper)
- 1 large grapefruit, peeled and segmented
- 1 ripe avocado, peeled, pitted, and cut into chunks
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Chopped green onions or chives (for garnish)
- Bamboo skewers or small cocktail sticks
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take approximately 20 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes preparing the ingredients and assembling the skewers, followed by another 10 minutes grilling them to perfection. Quick and easy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
Start by rinsing the shrimp under cold water and then pat them dry with some paper towels. This helps the shrimp absorb the flavor better and prevents excess moisture while cooking.
2. Season the Shrimp:
Place the cleaned shrimp in a mixing bowl. Drizzle the olive oil over the shrimp and toss everything together until all the shrimp are coated. Next, sprinkle the blackened seasoning over the shrimp and mix well again so that each shrimp is evenly coated in that flavorful spice blend.
3. Prepare the Grapefruit and Avocado:
Carefully peel the grapefruit to remove all the skin and membrane, then segment it so you have small pieces that are easy to thread. For the avocado, cut it into bite-sized chunks after peeling and pitting it. Set both aside.
4. Assemble the Skewers:
Take your bamboo skewers and start building your skewers. Thread a piece of avocado, followed by a grapefruit segment, and then a blackened shrimp. You can repeat the process by adding another piece of avocado or grapefruit at the end, depending on how you like it!
5. Grill the Skewers:
Now, it’s time to grill! Heat your grill pan or outdoor grill to medium-high heat. If you don’t have a grill, using a stovetop grill pan or a broiler works just as well. Place the skewers on the grill and cook them for 2-3 minutes on each side until the shrimp turn opaque and the seasoning develops a nice crust. The grapefruit and avocado will warm slightly but should stay fresh!
6. Serve and Garnish:
Once cooked, remove the skewers from the heat and arrange them on a serving plate. To finish, garnish with finely chopped green onions or chives for a pop of color and extra flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy the delightful mix of spicy shrimp, citrusy grapefruit, and creamy avocado!
Enjoy these vibrant, easy-to-make skewers that marry bold blackened shrimp with refreshing citrus and creamy richness!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to completely thaw them before cooking. The best way is to place them in the refrigerator overnight. If you’re in a hurry, you can also thaw them quickly by submerging them in cold water for about 15-20 minutes. Pat dry before seasoning.
What Can I Substitute for Grapefruit?
If grapefruit isn’t your thing, you can easily substitute it with orange segments, which will still provide a sweet and tangy flavor. Pineapple can also be a wonderful alternative, adding a tropical twist!
How Do I Store Leftover Skewers?
Store any leftover skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to eat, reheat them gently on a skillet or in the microwave, but be cautious not to overheat the shrimp, as they can become rubbery.
Can I Make These Skewers in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prep the shrimp and marinate them in the seasoning a few hours ahead of time. Just assemble the skewers just before grilling for the best results, but if necessary, they can be skewer-assembled a couple of hours ahead and stored in the fridge!
