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Easy Grilled Shrimp and Veggie Skewers: A Summer Delight

As the sunny days of summer approach, many of us start to think about dining al fresco and firing up the barbecue. One of the simplest yet most delightful meals you can whip up is grilled shrimp and vegetable skewers. Not only are they easy to prepare, but they are also incredibly versatile and bursting with flavour. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a weekend barbecue, or even a casual gathering with friends.

Ingredients

To make these scrumptious skewers, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Skewers:

• 500g large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 bell peppers (any colour you prefer), cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 red onion, cut into wedges
• 1 courgette (zucchini), sliced into thick rounds
• 200g cherry tomatoes
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh herbs (like parsley or coriander) for garnish

For the Marinade:

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or your preferred spice mix)
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• A pinch of chilli flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)

Method

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, smoked paprika, dried oregano, and chilli flakes. Whisk together until well blended. This marinade will infuse your shrimp and vegetables with beautiful flavours.

Step 2: Marinate the Shrimp and Veggies

Add the shrimp, bell peppers, red onion, courgette, and cherry tomatoes to the bowl with the marinade. Toss everything together until the shrimp and vegetables are evenly coated. Cover the bowl and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator. This allows the flavours to penetrate deeply, but if you’re in a hurry, marinating for just 10 minutes will still yield delicious results.

Step 3: Prepare the Skewers

Once marinated, thread the shrimp and vegetables onto skewers. If you’re using wooden skewers, remember to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before use to prevent them from burning on the grill. Alternate between shrimp and veggies for a colourful presentation.

Step 4: Grill the Skewers

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque and the vegetables have a lovely char. This should take around 8-10 minutes in total, but cooking times may vary, so keep an eye on them.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and transfer them to a serving platter. Garnish with fresh herbs, a squeeze of lemon juice, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Serve these delightful skewers warm, alongside a fresh salad, rice, or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Tips and Variations

• Vegetable Choices: Feel free to swap out the vegetables based on what’s in season or what you have on hand. Mushrooms, asparagus, and even pineapple make for great additions.
• Protein Alternatives: If shrimp isn’t your preference, these skewers work beautifully with chicken, beef, or plant-based proteins like tofu.
• Spiciness: Adjust the seasoning according to your taste. If you enjoy more heat, add extra chilli flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce before serving.

In conclusion, easy grilled shrimp and veggie skewers are a fantastic way to enjoy fresh, seasonal ingredients with minimal fuss. Perfectly suited for summer barbecues or quick weeknight dinners, these skewers are sure to impress family and friends alike. So grab your grill, and let’s get cooking!

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