Summer BBQ Recipes: Grilled Shrimp Skewers with Mango Salsa
As the summer months approach, the smell of sizzling burgers and hot dogs on the grill fills the air, signaling the start of BBQ season. But why settle for the same old classics when you can elevate your outdoor cooking game with some exciting and flavorful recipes? In this article, we’ll explore a summer BBQ recipe that’s sure to impress your friends and family: Grilled Shrimp Skewers with Mango Salsa.
Grilled Shrimp Skewers
Shrimp is a popular choice for summer BBQs, and for good reason. It’s quick to cook, packed with protein, and pairs well with a variety of flavors. For this recipe, you’ll need:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 10 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lime juice, and cumin. Add the shrimp and toss to coat. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Thread the shrimp onto the skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
Grill the skewers for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through. Serve hot and enjoy!
Mango Salsa
The sweet and tangy flavors of mango salsa are the perfect complement to the savory grilled shrimp. For this recipe, you’ll need:
- 2 ripe mangos, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, diced
- 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
In a medium bowl, combine mango, red onion, jalapeño, lime juice, and honey. Stir until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Assembly and Serving
To assemble the dish, place a grilled shrimp skewer on a serving plate or platter. Spoon the mango salsa over the top of the shrimp, garnishing with fresh cilantro leaves if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy the oohs and aahs from your guests.
Tips and Variations
- To add some extra flavor to your shrimp skewers, try marinating them in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and your favorite herbs for 30 minutes before grilling.
- If you prefer a spicier salsa, add more jalapeño or substitute in some diced habanero peppers.
- Consider serving the grilled shrimp skewers with some crusty bread or over a bed of quinoa or rice for a more substantial meal.
- For a vegetarian option, substitute the shrimp with chunks of bell pepper, onion, and mushrooms.
Conclusion
Grilled Shrimp Skewers with Mango Salsa is a summer BBQ recipe that’s sure to impress your friends and family. The combination of succulent shrimp, sweet mango, and tangy lime juice is a match made in heaven. With its ease of preparation and flavorful results, this recipe is perfect for your next outdoor gathering. So fire up the grill, skewer up some shrimp, and get ready to enjoy the taste of summer!
