If you are craving a seafood dish that bursts with bold flavors and gives you that perfect smoky char from the grill, look no further than this Grilled Cajun Shrimp Skewers Recipe. This dish combines juicy, tender shrimp with a lively Cajun spice blend, lightly kissed by lemon juice and cooked to perfection on the grill. It’s an incredibly satisfying recipe that’s not just fast and easy to make but also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser whether you’re feeding a family or impressing friends at a summer cookout.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in how straightforward and accessible the ingredients are, yet each one plays a vital role. From the fragrant Cajun seasoning that delivers depth and spice, to the fresh lemon juice that adds brightness, every element works in harmony to create a perfectly balanced and mouthwatering experience.
- 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined, tails on): Choose fresh or thawed shrimp for maximum juiciness and quick grilling time.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: This helps to bind the spices and keep shrimp moist and flavorful.
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning: The heart of this recipe, packed with paprika, cayenne, and herbs for spice and smokiness.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a subtle smoky depth that complements the grill’s char perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses the shrimp with warm, savory notes without overpowering.
- ½ teaspoon onion powder: Provides an aromatic base and subtle sweetness.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: A touch of heat that balances the seasoning.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Brightens the dish and tenderizes the shrimp before grilling.
- Wooden or metal skewers: Wooden skewers soaked in water prevent burning, metal skewers conduct heat evenly.
- Optional: fresh parsley and lemon wedges for garnish: Adds a fresh finish and pops of color for serving.
How to Make Grilled Cajun Shrimp Skewers Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Skewers
If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 20 minutes before grilling. This simple step is crucial to keep the skewers from catching fire and to ensure a safe and clean grilling process.
Step 2: Marinate the Shrimp
In a large bowl, toss your peeled and deveined shrimp with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and the fresh lemon juice. Allow the shrimp to marinate for 15 to 20 minutes so all those fantastic flavors can soak in deeply, making every bite a flavorful delight.
Step 3: Thread the Shrimp Onto Skewers
Thread the marinated shrimp onto your skewers, placing about 4 to 5 shrimp on each. This keeps them neat and manageable for grilling, while allowing the heat to circulate evenly around each piece.
Step 4: Grill to Perfection
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates or use a grill-safe spray to prevent sticking. Place the shrimp skewers on the grill and cook for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side, until the shrimp turn pink, opaque, and have those lovely slight char marks that scream grilled goodness.
Step 5: Serve Immediately
Once grilled, remove the skewers from the heat and serve immediately. For a beautiful touch and a burst of freshness, sprinkle with chopped parsley and add lemon wedges on the side.
How to Serve Grilled Cajun Shrimp Skewers Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley not only enhances the visual appeal with bright green flecks but also adds a subtle fresh flavor that contrasts wonderfully with the spicy Cajun seasoning. Lemon wedges are essential for giving that extra citrus zing at the table, allowing everyone to customize the acidity to their liking.
Side Dishes
Grilled Cajun Shrimp Skewers pair beautifully with an array of sides. Try serving them alongside fluffy white rice or a light cilantro lime rice to soak up the juices. Grilled vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus, complement the smoky, spicy flavors without overshadowing the shrimp. For a lighter option, a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette is ideal for a fresh, balanced meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Feeling creative? Lay the shrimp skewers over a bed of chilled avocado salad for a stunning contrast, or remove the shrimp from the skewers and build them into tacos with a drizzle of creamy chipotle sauce. They also make excellent additions to a charcuterie board featuring southern-inspired dips and fresh bread for casual entertaining.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftover grilled Cajun shrimp skewers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keeping them well-covered ensures the shrimp retain moisture and fresh flavors for your next meal.
Freezing
For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked shrimp skewers. Wrap each skewer tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw thoroughly in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat your shrimp skewers gently to avoid overcooking, which can make the shrimp tough. The best method is a quick warm-up on a grill or under the broiler for a couple of minutes. You can also microwave them on low power in short bursts, covered to keep them moist.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for the Grilled Cajun Shrimp Skewers Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before marinating to ensure the best texture and flavor absorption.
What if I don’t have a grill? Can I cook this recipe indoors?
You can easily cook the shrimp skewers on a grill pan or broiler indoors. Just watch closely as cooking times will be quicker and you want to achieve that lovely char without drying out the shrimp.
How spicy is this Grilled Cajun Shrimp Skewers Recipe?
The seasoning blend has a moderate kick and smoky depth, perfect for most palates. If you love heat, feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade for extra spice.
Can I prepare the marinade in advance?
Yes! You can mix the marinade ingredients ahead of time, but it’s best to marinate the shrimp just before grilling for the freshest taste and texture.
Are these shrimp skewers gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or anyone enjoying a gluten-free diet.
Final Thoughts
This Grilled Cajun Shrimp Skewers Recipe is a fantastic way to bring vibrant Cajun flavors to your table with minimal fuss and maximum impact. Whether you’re a grilling newbie or a seasoned pro, these skewers are quick to prepare, packed with bold taste, and perfect for sprinkling a little southern charm onto your next meal. Give them a try and watch them become an instant favorite in your recipe rotation!
Print
Grilled Cajun Shrimp Skewers Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Total Time: 21 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course, Appetizer
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Cajun, American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Delicious and easy-to-make Grilled Cajun Shrimp Skewers featuring succulent large shrimp marinated in a flavorful blend of Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic, and lemon juice. Perfectly grilled to a smoky char, these skewers make an ideal main course or appetizer for summer BBQs and gatherings.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Marinade
- 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined, tails on)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Additional
- Wooden or metal skewers
- Optional: fresh parsley for garnish
- Optional: lemon wedges for garnish
Instructions
- Soak Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 20 minutes to prevent burning on the grill.
- Marinate Shrimp: In a large bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and lemon juice. Allow the shrimp to marinate for 15–20 minutes so the flavors infuse.
- Thread Shrimp: Thread about 4–5 shrimp per skewer carefully, ensuring they are evenly spaced.
- Preheat Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates or spray with a grill-safe non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
- Grill Shrimp: Place the shrimp skewers on the grill and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, turning them once, until shrimp are pink, opaque, and slightly charred.
- Serve: Remove the shrimp skewers from the grill and serve immediately garnished with fresh chopped parsley and lemon wedges if desired.
Notes
- Serve with rice, grilled vegetables, or on a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade.
- Ensure shrimp are cooked just until opaque to avoid rubbery texture.
- If wooden skewers are not soaked well, they might burn on the grill.
