Marinated Shrimp Kabobs
Juicy marinated shrimp skewers bursting with sweet pineapple and vibrant green peppers, all coated in a tangy Italian-inspired marinade. Perfect for summer barbecues or quick weeknight dinners, this dish combines bold flavors with wholesome ingredients, appealing to seafood lovers and fans of flavorful, easy-to-make meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Peel and devein the shrimp; set aside.
- Drain the pineapple chunks, reserving 1/4 cup of juice.
- In a bowl, combine Italian salad dressing, tomato sauce, brown sugar, and prepared mustard to make the marinade.
- Add the shrimp to the marinade, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Thread the marinated shrimp, pineapple chunks, and green pepper cubes onto skewers alternately.
- Grill the skewers for 2-3 minutes per side until the shrimp are opaque and cooked through.
- Serve hot over hot cooked rice.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, try marinating the shrimp overnight for a more intense taste. If you don’t have Italian dressing, a mixture of olive oil, vinegar, and Italian herbs works well as a substitute. For a spicier kick, add crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade. Also, consider using other vegetables like zucchini or cherry tomatoes for variety, similar to what you might find in other seafood recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the kabobs over hot cooked rice to soak up the delicious marinade. A side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad pairs nicely, adding crunch and freshness to the meal. For an extra touch, drizzle with a little more Italian dressing or a squeeze of lime before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm the kabobs in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave for short intervals, ensuring they are heated through without overcooking the shrimp.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Marinated Shrimp Kabobs contains roughly 663 calories, with 10g protein, 132g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (98% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 956mg per serving (42% 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, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely before marinating. Place the shrimp in the refrigerator overnight or run them under cold water for a quicker thaw. This will ensure they absorb the marinade effectively.
What can I substitute for pineapple chunks?
If you don’t have pineapple chunks, you can use mango or bell pepper for a similar sweet and tangy flavor. Alternatively, fresh fruit such as peaches or apricots can be grilled alongside the shrimp for a delicious twist.
How do I know when the shrimp are cooked?
Shrimp are cooked when they turn pink and opaque, which typically takes 2-3 minutes per side on the grill. Avoid overcooking, as they can become tough. A good rule of thumb is to remove them from the grill just as they start to curl.
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).