These Caribbean Jerk Shrimp Skewers are packed with flavor! The shrimp gets a nice kick from the spicy jerk seasoning, making them fun and exciting to eat.
Grilling these up is a breeze, and they look fancy on a plate! I love serving them with a squeeze of lime for an extra zing—perfect for summer BBQs or fun nights in!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are perfect for skewers as they hold up well on the grill. If shrimp aren’t available, consider using firm fish like salmon or even chunks of chicken breast.
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple adds a great sweetness. If you’re out of fresh, canned pineapple works fine too. Just drain it well!
Jerk Seasoning: This is where the magic happens! If you don’t have store-bought jerk seasoning, a homemade blend of spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cayenne can work too. Just adjust to your taste.
Bell Pepper: Red bell peppers are sweet and colorful. You can swap them with green peppers or even zucchini for a different flavor and look.
How Do I Get Juicy Shrimp with a Perfect Char?
Getting juicy shrimp with a nice char is all about marinating and cooking temp. Marinate your shrimp for that flavor punch—30 minutes is good, but an hour will really enhance it. Grilling at medium-high heat ensures a great sear without overcooking.
- Make sure the grill is hot before adding the skewers. This creates a nice char and prevents sticking.
- Cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side. They cook quickly, so keep an eye on them!
- For extra juiciness, squeeze lime juice over the cooked skewers—such a refreshing touch!
Caribbean Jerk Shrimp Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Skewers:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
For the Marinade:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons Caribbean jerk seasoning
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Garnishing:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Lime wedges, for serving
- Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes before using)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish requires about 20 minutes of prep time, plus a marinating time of 30 minutes to 1 hour. Cooking will take around 10-12 minutes on the grill. So in total, you’re looking at about 1 hour and 30 minutes before you can enjoy your delicious skewers!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil, Caribbean jerk seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, ground allspice, dried thyme, cayenne pepper (if you want extra heat), salt, and black pepper. This marinade is what brings the wonderful flavors to your shrimp!
2. Marinate the Shrimp:
Add the shrimp to the marinade, tossing them gently until they are all coated evenly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and pop it in the fridge to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 1 hour if you have the time. This helps the shrimp soak up all those delicious flavors!
3. Preheat the Grill:
While the shrimp is marinating, get your grill or grill pan preheated to medium-high heat. This is crucial for getting a nice char on your skewers!
4. Assemble the Skewers:
Once your shrimp has marinated, it’s time to assemble the skewers. Thread the shrimp, pineapple chunks, and red bell pepper pieces onto the skewers in an alternating pattern. This not only looks great but balances the flavors beautifully!
5. Grill the Skewers:
Carefully place the skewers on the preheated grill. Grill the skewers for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turn opaque and are cooked through with a lovely char. Be cautious not to overcook them!
6. Serve and Garnish:
Once done, remove the skewers from the grill and place them on a serving platter. Sprinkle with freshly chopped cilantro for a burst of color and flavor. Serve with lime wedges for an extra splash of zest!
7. Enjoy!
Dig into your vibrant and flavorful Caribbean Jerk Shrimp Skewers right away. They’re perfect for sharing—or keeping all to yourself!
Can I Use Different Vegetables for the Skewers?
Absolutely! While red bell pepper and pineapple are delicious, you can swap in other veggies like zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or even onions. Just ensure they are cut into similar sizes for even cooking.
What If I Don’t Have Caribbean Jerk Seasoning?
No worries! If you can’t find Caribbean jerk seasoning, you can create your own mix using spices like allspice, cinnamon, nutmeg, cayenne, and thyme. Adjust these to your taste for a homemade version!
Can I Make These Skewers Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Assemble the skewers and marinate the shrimp a few hours in advance. Just keep them covered in the fridge and grill right before serving for the best flavor and freshness.
How Do I Store Leftover Skewers?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them on a skillet over low heat until warmed through, or quickly in the microwave for a minute or so.