Appetizer Shrimp Kabobs
Juicy shrimp skewers grilled to perfection paired with a tangy cucumber and onion relish, ideal for summer barbecues and seafood lovers seeking bold flavors.
Ingredients
- 2 lb. shrimp ⓘ
- 1/2 c. lemon juice ⓘ
- 1/2 c. vegetable oil ⓘ
- 1/4 c. soy sauce ⓘ
- 3 Tbsp. fresh parsley ⓘ
- 2 Tbsp. chopped onion ⓘ
- 1/2 tsp. salt ⓘ
- 1/2 tsp. pepper
- 1 clove garlic, minced ⓘ
- 3 medium onions ⓘ
- 12 large cucumbers ⓘ
- 2 Tbsp. salt ⓘ
- 6 c. cold water ⓘ
- 1 qt. white vinegar ⓘ
- 2 c. sugar ⓘ
- 1 Tbsp. celery seed ⓘ
- 1 Tbsp. mustard seed ⓘ
- 1 Tbsp. turmeric ⓘ
Instructions
- Peel onions and wash cucumbers.
- Combine salt and water to make a soaking solution.
- Slice onions and cucumbers into 1/4-inch slices, including peel.
- Soak the sliced vegetables in the saltwater solution for 1 hour, adding ice if desired to keep crisp.
- Prepare the marinade: boil lemon juice, vegetable oil, soy sauce, parsley, chopped onion, salt, pepper, and minced garlic.
- Remove onions and cucumbers from the saltwater, drain well, and add to the vinegar mixture.
- Bring the vinegar mixture and vegetables just to a boil, about 10 minutes, until tender but not overcooked.
- Pack the hot slices and liquid into sterilized jars, sealing immediately.
- Let the jars stand for a couple of days before eating to allow flavors to develop.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more intense flavor, consider marinating the shrimp overnight. If you don't have vegetable oil, olive oil can be a great substitute. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for an extra kick. Ensure the shrimp are peeled and deveined to enhance the presentation and flavor. If you're short on time, quick-pickled onions can be a good alternative to the soaking method.
Serving Suggestions
These shrimp kabobs make an excellent appetizer for any gathering. Serve them alongside a refreshing salad or with Snacker Crackers for a delightful crunch. Pair with a tangy dipping sauce, such as a garlic aioli or a spicy cocktail sauce, to elevate the flavors. They also complement dishes like Salmon Croque Monsieur beautifully.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover shrimp kabobs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to reheat them, place them on a baking sheet and warm them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the shrimp rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Appetizer Shrimp Kabobs contains roughly 1848 calories, with 68g protein, 320g carbohydrates, and 44g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (264% of the Daily Value), iron (176% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (150% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp can be used; just make sure to thaw them completely before marinating. It's best to thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or place them in a bowl of cold water for a quicker method. Be sure to pat them dry before marinating to ensure the flavors adhere properly.
What type of skewers should I use for the kabobs?
You can use either metal or wooden skewers. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning. Metal skewers are reusable and can withstand higher temperatures, making them a convenient option for grilling.
How can I make this dish more visually appealing?
To enhance the visual appeal, alternate the shrimp with colorful vegetables like bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini on the skewers. This not only adds color but also additional flavors and textures to the kabobs. A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top before serving can also brighten the dish.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).