These Easy Blackened Shrimp and Grapefruit Skewers are a fun treat bursting with flavor! You get juicy shrimp with a nice kick from spices, perfectly paired with zesty grapefruit.
Perfect for backyard fun or a quick dinner, these skewers are sure to impress. I love how the smoky shrimp meets the fresh grapefruit—it’s like a party on a stick! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are the star of this dish. If you’re looking for a substitute, consider using scallops or even chicken breast cut into bite-sized pieces. Both options will still soak up the spices wonderfully!
Spices: The blackened seasoning really makes this dish shine. If you don’t have all the spices, just use Cajun or Creole seasoning as a shortcut. It’s packed with flavors! I also love adding a pinch of smoked paprika for even more depth.
Grapefruit: Pink grapefruit adds a lovely tartness. If you find it too bitter, oranges work well too. You’ll lose some tartness but gain sweetness, which can be delightful!
Avocado: Avocado complements the dish well, but if you’re not a fan or have allergies, consider cucumber slices for crunch.
How Do I Get the Perfect Blackened Shrimp?
The technique for blackening shrimp is key for great flavor. The goal is to achieve that signature blackened crust without overcooking them. Here’s how:
- Start with a dry shrimp: Pat them dry well before adding oil and spices. Moisture can prevent that nice sear.
- Use high heat: A hot skillet helps to create the blackened effect quickly. Just make sure your oil isn’t smoking too much.
- Cook in batches: Don’t overcrowd the pan, as this will lower the heat and steam the shrimp. Fry them in small batches, and you’ll see that beautiful char!
Perfectly blackened shrimp are spicy, smoky, and oh-so-delicious! Cooking them right will leave you with juicy, tender bites that pair perfectly with the grapefruit.
Easy Blackened Shrimp and Grapefruit Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 large pink grapefruits, peeled and segmented
- 1 avocado, peeled, pitted and cut into chunks
- 1-2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- Bamboo or wooden skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes)
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 20 minutes in total! You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and about 10 minutes cooking and assembling the skewers. It’s quick, delicious, and perfect for any occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Blackening Spice:
In a small bowl, combine the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt. Mix them together to create your flavorful blackening spice blend.
2. Prepare the Shrimp:
Use paper towels to pat the shrimp dry. This step is super important! Then, toss the shrimp in a bowl with olive oil and your blackening spice mixture. Make sure each shrimp is nicely coated.
3. Cook the Shrimp:
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add in the shrimp and cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re done when they’re bright pink and slightly charred. Remove them from the heat and set aside.
4. Get the Grapefruit Ready:
Peel the grapefruits and carefully segment them, making sure to remove any white pith and membranes. The cleaner the segments, the better they look on the skewers!
5. Cut the Avocado:
Chop your avocado into bite-sized chunks. These will add a nice creaminess to your skewers!
6. Assemble the Skewers:
Now it’s time to put everything together! Start by threading one chunk of avocado onto the skewer, followed by a blackened shrimp, and then a grapefruit segment. Repeat this until all your skewers are filled and looking fabulous.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Arrange your skewers on a serving plate and sprinkle with sliced green onions for a fresh touch. Serve these delicious skewers immediately to enjoy the zesty, smoky flavors!
Enjoy your delicious blackened shrimp and grapefruit skewers!
This recipe not only packs a punch of flavor, combining the spicy shrimp with the juicy grapefruit and creamy avocado, but it also looks stunning on the plate. Enjoy as a light meal or at your next gathering!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but be sure to thaw them completely before cooking. The best way to thaw shrimp is to leave them in the fridge overnight or place them in a sealed plastic bag and submerge them in cold water for about 30 minutes. Pat them dry before seasoning!
What If I Don’t Have All the Spices?
No problem! If you don’t have every spice listed, you can use a pre-made Cajun or Creole seasoning instead. It will still provide great flavor. Just start with a smaller amount and adjust to your taste.
How Can I Store Leftover Skewers?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet on medium heat until heated through, but be cautious not to overcook the shrimp!
Can I Make These Skewers Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the shrimp and segment the grapefruit in advance. Assemble the skewers just before serving to maintain freshness and the best textures. If you need to prepare them ahead, store each component separately until you’re ready to eat.
