Grilled Seafood Brochette With Orange-Tarragon Vinaigrette
Succulent grilled seafood skewers enhanced with a bright orange-tarragon vinaigrette, perfect for summer gatherings and seafood lovers seeking fresh, flavorful bites.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine orange juice, chopped tarragon, Dijon mustard, sugar, grated orange rind, grated ginger, salt, and pepper to make the vinaigrette.
- Beat in the olive oil until well blended; set aside.
- Thread shrimp and scallops onto skewers and prepare for grilling.
- Grill the seafood skewers until cooked through and lightly charred, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Serve with orange slices and drizzle with the orange-tarragon vinaigrette.
Tips & Substitutions
For best flavor, use fresh tarragon instead of dried if possible. If you can't find sea scallops, you can substitute with other seafood like firm white fish or even a mix of your favorite seafood. Make sure to soak your wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning. For a twist, consider adding vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to the skewers.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the grilled seafood brochette with slices of orange for a bright contrast. This dish pairs beautifully with a side of light couscous or a fresh green salad. For a Mediterranean flair, consider serving alongside Tomatoes Stuffed With Tuna Fish or Feta Shrimp. A chilled white wine complements the flavors perfectly.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When reheating, do so gently in a skillet over low heat to prevent the seafood from becoming tough. You can also enjoy the brochettes cold for a refreshing salad addition.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grilled Seafood Brochette With Orange-Tarragon Vinaigrette contains roughly 11 calories, with 1g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1774mg per serving (77% 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 seafood for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp and scallops, but make sure to thaw them completely before grilling. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture, which will help achieve a nice char on the grill.
What can I substitute for orange juice in the vinaigrette?
You can substitute orange juice with lemon juice for a different citrus flavor, or use a mixture of lemon and lime juice for a more complex taste. Just keep in mind that the overall flavor profile will change slightly.
How do I know when the seafood is cooked through?
Shrimp should turn pink and opaque, while scallops will become firm and opaque as well. A good rule of thumb is to cook them for about 3-4 minutes per side over medium-high heat, but keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
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).