These grilled jalapeño lime shrimp skewers bring the heat in all the right ways. With a bold marinade made from fresh jalapeños, lime juice, garlic, and cilantro, this recipe strikes the perfect balance between citrusy brightness and subtle smokiness.
Perfect for backyard barbecues, summer dinners, or even an elevated appetizer, these shrimp skewers are quick to prepare and even faster to devour. The sugar helps to give them a slight caramelized edge, while the lime and jalapeño marinade ensures each bite is packed with fresh, tangy heat.
Ingredients for Zesty Jalapeño Lime Grilled Shrimp Skewers
-
2 lb (0.9 kilograms) extra-large shrimp, peeled and deveined
-
1/2 tsp (2.5 grams) sugar
-
1 Tbsp (15 grams) freshly minced cilantro
For the Shrimp Marinade
-
2 fresh jalapeño peppers, stemmed, seeded, and chopped
-
3 Tbsp (45 milliliters) olive oil
-
6 cloves garlic, finely minced
-
2 tsp (4 grams) grated lime zest + 5 Tbsp (75 milliliters) fresh lime juice
-
1/2 tsp (1 gram) ground cumin
-
1/4 tsp (0.5 grams) cayenne pepper
-
1/2 tsp (3 grams) sea salt
How to Make Zesty Jalapeño Lime Grilled Shrimp Skewers
-
Prepare the Marinade: In a food processor, blend all marinade ingredients until smooth (about 15 seconds). Reserve 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) of the marinade and place the rest into a medium mixing bowl.
-
Marinate the Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry using paper towels. To butterfly, make a shallow slice along the outer curve of each shrimp using a small paring knife. Add the shrimp to the bowl of marinade and toss well to coat. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
-
Prep the Grill and Skewers: Clean and oil the grill grates to prevent sticking. Thread the marinated shrimp onto skewers, alternating their direction and packing them tightly to fit about a dozen per skewer.
-
Grill the Shrimp: Sprinkle one side of the skewered shrimp lightly with sugar. Grill sugar-side down over the hot side of the grill for 3 to 4 minutes until slightly charred. Flip and move to the cooler side of the grill, cover, and cook an additional 1 to 2 minutes, or until the shrimp are no longer translucent.
-
Finish and Serve: Remove from grill, toss shrimp with the reserved marinade, sprinkle with fresh cilantro, and serve immediately.
These jalapeño lime shrimp skewers are everything you want from grilled seafood—fast, flavorful, and fiery. With just the right hint of sweetness and smokiness, they’re perfect for pairing with a crisp salad, grilled corn, or even wrapped in warm tortillas for a spontaneous taco night.
Once you serve these up, expect them to vanish quickly—this recipe is a keeper for any seafood lover who likes a little kick! 🌶️🦐🔥
