These Grilled Shrimp and Peach Kabobs are a fun and tasty treat! Juicy shrimp and sweet peaches come together on skewers for a colorful summer dish that’s easy to make.
Who can resist the combo of seafood and fruit on a stick? I love flipping them on the grill and watching everyone enjoy this simple, bright meal. Perfect for a barbecue!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are ideal for this recipe. If fresh shrimp isn’t available, frozen shrimp work well too—just ensure they’re thawed and drained before marinating. Personally, I love using wild-caught shrimp for better flavor and texture.
Peaches: Fresh, ripe peaches bring a sweet and juicy element to the dish. If they’re out of season, feel free to substitute with nectarines, plums, or even canned peaches (drained), which will still add a nice sweetness.
Olive Oil: This provides richness to the marinade. For a different twist, avocado oil or melted coconut oil can be good substitutes. Just keep in mind coconut oil will add a hint of coconut flavor.
Honey: It gives a sweet touch that balances the flavors. Maple syrup or agave nectar can serve as great vegan substitutes if you avoid honey. Both will still keep the sweetness intact.
Spices: Smoked paprika adds a delicious depth. If you don’t have it, regular paprika or cayenne for spice can work. Just adjust based on your heat preference!
How Do I Prevent My Skewers from Burning?
Soaking wooden skewers is the key to preventing them from burning on the grill. Here’s how to do it:
- Submerge the skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This helps keep them moist while cooking.
- Make sure they are fully covered in water and occasionally move them around.
- If you’re using metal skewers, skip this step—just start grilling!
Taking the time to soak your skewers ensures a smooth grilling experience without the worry of charcoal sticks ruining your delicious kabobs.
How to Make Grilled Shrimp and Peach Kabobs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Kabobs:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 ripe peaches, pitted and cut into wedges
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
For the Marinade:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons honey
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes in total, including soaking the skewers and grilling. It’s a quick and vibrant dish that’s perfect for a summer meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Skewers:
If you’re using wooden skewers, start by soaking them in water for at least 30 minutes. This helps prevent them from burning while grilling. Metal skewers can be used directly without soaking.
2. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, mix together the olive oil, honey, lime juice, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well combined to create a delicious marinade for the shrimp and peaches.
3. Combine Ingredients:
Add the shrimp and peach wedges to your marinade. Toss gently to make sure everything is well-coated. Let the mixture marinate for about 15-20 minutes to soak up all those amazing flavors!
4. Assemble the Kabobs:
Now, it’s time to assemble! Take your soaked skewers and alternate threading the marinated shrimp and peach wedges onto each skewer. You can fit about 3-4 shrimp and a few peach wedges on each one, depending on the size of the pieces.
5. Preheat the Grill:
Turn your grill on and heat it to medium-high. This ensures a good sear on the shrimp and peaches.
6. Grill the Kabobs:
Once the grill is hot, place your kabobs on the grate. Grill for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, and the peaches develop beautiful grill marks.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Carefully remove the kabobs from the grill. Serve them hot, and if you like, garnish with extra lime wedges for a fresh burst of flavor. Enjoy your tasty Grilled Shrimp and Peach Kabobs!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to fully thaw the shrimp before marinating. The best way to do this is to place them in the fridge overnight or you can quickly thaw them in a sealed bag submerged in cold water for about 15-20 minutes. Pat them dry before marinating to ensure they soak up all the flavors!
What Can I Substitute for Peaches?
If peaches aren’t in season or you can’t find them, apricots or nectarines make great substitutes! Both fruits have similar sweetness and will grill beautifully. Just slice them into wedges as you would with peaches.
How Should I Store Leftover Kabobs?
Store any leftover kabobs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave for a few seconds until warmed through. They can also be enjoyed cold in salads!
Can I Make These Kabobs on a Grill Pan?
Definitely! If you don’t have access to an outdoor grill, a grill pan works perfectly. Just preheat it on medium-high heat and follow the same grilling instructions. You may need a little extra time, so keep an eye on them to ensure they cook evenly!