These Spicy Shrimp and Veggie Skewers are a flavorful, healthy, and fun way to enjoy seafood. Packed with shrimp, colorful veggies, and a tangy, spicy marinade, these skewers are perfect for grilling or baking. Whether you’re serving them for dinner or preparing a quick meal prep, they’re sure to be a hit!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These spicy shrimp and veggie skewers are not only delicious but also customizable to your taste. The combination of shrimp, bell peppers, zucchini, red onion, and optional pineapple makes for a balanced and satisfying meal. The tangy and spicy marinade adds an extra layer of flavor that’s perfect for a quick dinner or even meal prep for the week. Plus, you can easily grill or bake them depending on your preference!
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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1 pound shrimp (deveined and peeled)
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1 bell pepper (any color), cut into chunks
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1 zucchini, cut into chunks
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1/2 red onion, cut into chunks
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1/2 cup pineapple chunks (optional)
Marinade:
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Juice of 1 lime
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1 tablespoon chili powder
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1 teaspoon cumin
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1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
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2 tablespoons olive oil
directions
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Prepare the marinade: In a bowl, whisk together the lime juice, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and olive oil.
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Marinate the shrimp and veggies: Add the shrimp and veggies to the marinade and toss to coat. Let the mixture marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours) for maximum flavor.
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Preheat your grill or oven: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, or set your oven to 400°F (200°C).
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Assemble the skewers: Thread the marinated shrimp and veggies onto skewers, alternating between shrimp, bell pepper, zucchini, red onion, and pineapple (if using).
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Cook the skewers: Grill the skewers for 5-7 minutes per side, or bake in the oven for 10-12 minutes, until the shrimp are cooked through and the veggies are tender.
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Serve: Serve the skewers over rice, quinoa, or a bed of greens for a complete meal.
Servings and timing
Servings: 4 servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 42 minutes
Calories: 220 kcal per serving
Variations
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Spice level: Adjust the chili powder and cumin to your preferred spice level. For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes.
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Other veggies: Feel free to swap in other veggies like cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, or even eggplant for a different flavor profile.
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Grilled fruit: For a unique twist, add other fruits like mango or peaches to the skewers for a sweet and savory combination.
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Paleo version: Skip the pineapple or swap the rice/quinoa for cauliflower rice for a Paleo-friendly meal.
storage/reheating
These skewers are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the microwave or on the grill for a few minutes to warm through.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but make sure to thaw them completely before marinating and skewering.
Can I cook these skewers in the oven instead of grilling?
Yes! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the skewers for 10-12 minutes, or until the shrimp are cooked through and the veggies are tender.
How do I know when the shrimp are cooked?
Shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque. They should curl into a “C” shape when cooked properly.
Can I prepare these skewers ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate the shrimp and veggies the night before, or even assemble the skewers in advance. Store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.
Can I use other types of seafood?
Absolutely! You can use scallops, fish fillets, or even chicken in place of shrimp, though cooking times may vary depending on the protein.
Conclusion
Spicy Shrimp and Veggie Skewers are the perfect combination of flavor and freshness, making them a great addition to your dinner rotation. With a zesty marinade and your choice of vegetables, these skewers are easy to customize and cook to perfection on the grill or in the oven. Serve them over rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad for a light and satisfying meal that’s sure to please!
Print
Spicy Shrimp and Veggie Skewers
These Spicy Shrimp and Veggie Skewers are a flavorful and healthy meal, featuring marinated shrimp, vibrant veggies, and optional pineapple. Whether grilled or baked, these skewers are quick, easy, and customizable for meal prep or a fun dinner. Perfect for a light, satisfying meal packed with flavor!
- Total Time: 42 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
1 pound shrimp (deveined and peeled)
1 bell pepper (any color), cut into chunks
1 zucchini, cut into chunks
1/2 red onion, cut into chunks
1/2 cup pineapple chunks (optional)
For the marinade:
Juice of 1 lime
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
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Prepare the marinade: In a bowl, whisk together lime juice, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and olive oil.
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Marinate the shrimp and veggies: Add the shrimp and veggies to the marinade, tossing to coat. Marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours).
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Preheat grill or oven: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat or set your oven to 400°F (200°C).
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Assemble the skewers: Thread the shrimp and veggies onto skewers, alternating between shrimp, bell pepper, zucchini, red onion, and pineapple (if using).
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Cook the skewers: Grill for 5-7 minutes per side or bake in the oven for 10-12 minutes until shrimp are cooked through and veggies are tender.
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Serve: Serve over rice, quinoa, or a bed of greens for a complete meal.
Notes
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Spice level: Adjust chili powder and cumin to your desired spice level. Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes for extra heat.
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Veggie swaps: Try cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, or eggplant for more variety.
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Grilled fruit twist: Add mango or peaches for a unique, sweet-savory flavor.
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Paleo option: Omit pineapple or serve with cauliflower rice for a Paleo-friendly version.
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Meal prep: Marinate and assemble the skewers in advance for quick and easy cooking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling or Baking
- Cuisine: Seafood
- Diet: Gluten Free
