Seafood Sword Kabobs
Juicy seafood sword kabobs with tangy lemon-butter glaze, perfect for summer grilling or special gatherings, showcasing fresh shrimp, scallops, and vibrant vegetables.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine soy sauce, salad oil, lemon juice, parsley, salt, and pepper to make the basting sauce.
- Peel and devein the shrimp, leaving the last section of shell and tail intact.
- Add the shrimp and scallops to the basting sauce and let stand for 1 hour at room temperature, stirring to evenly coat the meat.
- Thread the marinated seafood, green olives, cherry tomatoes, and lemon wedges onto the skewers alternately.
- Grill the skewers over medium heat until the seafood is opaque and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side.
- Prepare lemon butter by mixing lemon juice with melted butter in a 1:2 ratio.
- Serve the skewers hot, drizzled with lemon butter and garnished with additional lemon wedges and parsley if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For optimal flavor, marinate the seafood for the full hour to allow the soy sauce and lemon juice to penetrate the shrimp and scallops. If you can't find fresh scallops, consider substituting with chunks of firm fish like swordfish. To prevent sticking, soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before grilling. This recipe is a great addition to your collection of seafood recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the kabobs hot off the grill, drizzled with the prepared lemon butter for added richness. These kabobs pair beautifully with a fresh green salad or a side of rice pilaf. For a complete meal, consider serving with crusty bread to soak up the lemon butter. This dish is perfect for summer gatherings or casual dinners, making it a standout among American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover kabobs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can grill them briefly over low heat, ensuring they don't dry out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Seafood Sword Kabobs contains roughly 955 calories, with 1g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 106g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1588mg per serving (69% 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. Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before marinating to avoid excess moisture. This will help the basting sauce adhere better and improve the overall flavor.
What type of salad oil is best for the basting sauce?
A mild oil like canola or vegetable oil works well for the basting sauce, as it won't overpower the flavors of the seafood. Avoid oils with strong flavors, such as olive oil, unless you prefer its distinct taste. This balance ensures the shrimp and scallops shine through.
Can I add vegetables to the skewers?
Absolutely! Bell peppers, zucchini, and red onions make excellent additions to the skewers. Just be sure to cut them into similar sizes so they cook evenly alongside the seafood. This not only adds color but also enhances the flavor profile of 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).