Grilled Shrimp Skewers with Citrus and Charred Thyme Recipe

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe yields 4 servings. The ingredient amounts have been adjusted automatically, but cooking times and steps remain unchanged. Note that not all recipes scale perfectly.

• 1 pound extra-large shrimp (26 to 30 per pound), peeled, tails on if desired, deveined
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 teaspoon orange zest
• 2 tablespoons orange juice
• 1/2 teaspoon lime zest
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 orange, cut into wedges
• 4 sprigs fresh thyme
• 1/4 cup butter, softened

Directions

Step 1: Place the shrimp in a zip-top bag set in a shallow dish. Add the olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon of orange zest, orange juice, lime zest, lime juice, and minced garlic. Seal the bag and turn it to coat the shrimp evenly. Chill the shrimp for at least 30 minutes, or up to 1 hour.

Step 2: Preheat your outdoor grill to medium heat (350F to 375F / 175C to 190C).

Step 3: Remove the shrimp from the marinade, discarding the marinade. Thread 6 to 7 shrimp onto each of 4 skewers. Sprinkle the shrimp with salt and pepper.

Step 4: Oil the grill grates. Arrange the skewers, orange wedges (cut side down), and thyme sprigs on the grill. Grill the thyme for about 15 seconds until lightly charred.

Step 5: Cover the grill and cook the skewers and orange wedges, turning halfway through, for 6 to 8 minutes, or until the shrimp turn opaque and the orange wedges are lightly charred.

Step 6: Remove the thyme leaves from the sprigs and coarsely chop them. Stir 1 teaspoon of chopped thyme and the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of orange zest into the softened butter.

Step 7: Spread the citrus-thyme butter over the grilled shrimp and serve with the charred orange wedges. Garnish with the remaining thyme.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 527
• Total Fat: 28g (35% DV)
• Saturated Fat: 10g (49% DV)
• Cholesterol: 270mg (90% DV)
• Sodium: 1302mg (57% DV)
• Total Carbohydrates: 45g (16% DV)
• Dietary Fiber: 7g (26% DV)
• Total Sugars: 29g
• Protein: 29g (58% DV)
• Vitamin C: 192mg (214% DV)
• Calcium: 243mg (19% DV)
• Iron: 1mg (6% DV)
• Potassium: 791mg (17% DV)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

The Story Behind Grilled Shrimp Skewers with Citrus and Charred Thyme

Grilled shrimp skewers are a culinary creation rooted in the coastal regions of the United States, where fresh seafood has always been a dietary staple. The technique of skewering shrimp for grilling can be traced back to traditional seaside cookouts, particularly in the American South and along the Gulf Coast. Incorporating citrus and aromatic herbs like thyme elevates the natural sweetness of the shrimp while reflecting the regions preference for bright, zesty flavors that complement seafood. Over time, these skewers have evolved from a simple backyard meal into a sophisticated dish found in restaurants nationwide.

Regional Variations

While the base concept of grilled shrimp skewers is widespread, regional variations emphasize local ingredients and seasonings. In the southern United States, recipes often highlight citrus marinades combined with garlic and butter, while in California, chefs might introduce avocado oil or fresh herbs like rosemary. In the Caribbean, skewers often feature tropical fruits like mango or pineapple, which balance the smokiness from the grill. Even within the same country, subtle differences in spice levels, herb combinations, and cooking techniques give each version a distinctive flavor profile.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

Grilled shrimp skewers with citrus and charred thyme are distinct from other shrimp dishes such as shrimp scampi or shrimp cocktail. Unlike shrimp scampi, which is cooked in a garlicky butter sauce and served over pasta, these skewers are grilled, producing a smoky char that enhances the shrimps natural flavor. Compared to shrimp cocktail, which is served chilled with a tangy sauce, these skewers are hot, succulent, and infused with citrus and herbaceous notes. The combination of a light citrus marinade and the subtle char from the grill sets this dish apart as both vibrant and flavorful.

Where They Are Typically Served

Grilled shrimp skewers are versatile and commonly served in both casual and formal settings. They are a favorite at summer barbecues, seaside restaurants, and outdoor dining events. In higher-end establishments, these skewers are often presented as an appetizer, sometimes accompanied by grilled citrus wedges or a drizzle of citrus-thyme butter. Their appealing presentation on skewers also makes them ideal for parties, food festivals, and gourmet catering events, offering both visual and culinary satisfaction.

Interesting Facts

• The use of citrus in seafood cooking is centuries-old, as the acidity helps to enhance flavor and tenderize delicate proteins.
• Charred thyme not only adds aroma but also releases essential oils that complement the smoky notes from the grill.
• Skewering shrimp ensures even cooking and prevents them from curling excessively, a technique popularized in traditional grilling practices.
• Serving shrimp with citrus wedges on the side is both a visual and functional choice, allowing diners to adjust the brightness of flavor to their preference.
• This dish exemplifies the balance of simple ingredients creating complex flavorsa hallmark of modern American grilling cuisine.

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