Why You’ll Love This Spicy Grilled Shrimp Skewers with Mango Salsa Recipe
This Spicy Grilled Shrimp Skewers with Mango Salsa Recipe is a delightful dish that bursts with flavor. The shrimp are marinated in a zesty blend of spices, giving them a fiery kick. Paired with the sweet and tangy mango salsa, it creates a perfect balance. This dish is not only delicious but also quick to prepare, making it ideal for summer barbecues, family gatherings, or even a cozy dinner at home. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking for a new recipe to impress your guests, this one is sure to be a hit!
What You’ll Need for Spicy Grilled Shrimp Skewers with Mango Salsa
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this dish a success. Here’s what you’ll need:
Complete Ingredients List
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4-6 skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak in water for 30 minutes prior to grilling)
- 1 large ripe mango, peeled and diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped
Ingredient Substitutions & Alternatives
If you have dietary restrictions or preferences, here are some substitutions:
- For a milder flavor, reduce the chili powder or omit the jalapeño.
- Use avocado instead of mango for a creamy twist.
- Swap shrimp for chicken or tofu for a different protein option.
How to Make Spicy Grilled Shrimp Skewers with Mango Salsa
Follow these simple steps to create your delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a large bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, lime juice, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create a flavorful marinade.
Step 2: Marinate the Shrimp
Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the marinade, ensuring each shrimp is well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
Step 3: Make the Mango Salsa
In a separate bowl, combine the diced mango, chopped red onion, cilantro, jalapeño, lime juice, and salt. Gently mix until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Set aside.
Step 4: Assemble the Skewers
Thread the marinated shrimp onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each shrimp for even cooking.
Step 5: Preheat the Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F or 200°C). If using a grill pan, heat it over medium-high heat on the stove.
Step 6: Grill the Shrimp
Place the skewers on the preheated grill. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp are opaque and have nice grill marks. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become rubbery.
Step 7: Serve
Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a minute. Serve the spicy grilled shrimp skewers hot, accompanied by the fresh mango salsa on the side.
Serving Suggestions for Spicy Grilled Shrimp Skewers with Mango Salsa
How to Serve Spicy Grilled Shrimp Skewers with Mango Salsa
Serve the skewers hot off the grill. You can place them on a platter and garnish with lime wedges for an extra pop of color. For a fun presentation, serve the mango salsa in a small bowl alongside the skewers.
Perfect Pairings & Toppings
This dish pairs wonderfully with a refreshing salad or rice. Consider adding a drizzle of lime crema or a sprinkle of extra cilantro for added flavor.
Storing & Preserving Spicy Grilled Shrimp Skewers with Mango Salsa
Best Storage Methods
Store any leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The mango salsa can also be stored separately in the fridge.
Reheating or Freezing Tips
To reheat, warm the shrimp in a skillet over low heat. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the shrimp rubbery. For longer storage, freeze the shrimp before grilling, but note that the texture may change slightly.
Tips for Perfect Spicy Grilled Shrimp Skewers with Mango Salsa Every Time
Avoid These Common Mistakes
- Don’t over-marinate the shrimp, as it can make them mushy.
- Ensure your grill is hot enough before adding the skewers.
Helpful Tricks for Success
For the best flavor, use fresh ingredients. Also, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika for an extra depth of flavor.
Fun Variations of Spicy Grilled Shrimp Skewers with Mango Salsa
Flavor Variations or Recipe Twists
Try adding different fruits like pineapple or peach to the salsa for a unique twist. You can also experiment with different spices in the marinade.
Dietary-Friendly Adjustments
To make this recipe gluten-free, ensure your spices are certified gluten-free. For a vegan option, substitute shrimp with grilled vegetables or tofu.
FAQs
What If My Spicy Grilled Shrimp Skewers with Mango Salsa don’t Turn Out Right?
If your shrimp are overcooked, they may become tough. Always keep an eye on them while grilling. If the salsa is too sweet, add a splash of lime juice to balance it out.
Can I Prepare This in Advance?
Yes! You can marinate the shrimp a few hours ahead of time. The salsa can also be made a day in advance for better flavor.
What Ingredients Can I Swap?
You can swap shrimp for chicken, tofu, or even fish. For the salsa, try using different fruits or herbs based on your preference.
PrintSpicy Grilled Shrimp Skewers with Mango Salsa
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A delightful dish of spicy grilled shrimp skewers paired with sweet and tangy mango salsa, perfect for summer barbecues and family gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4–6 skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak in water for 30 minutes prior to grilling)
- 1 large ripe mango, peeled and diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, lime juice, salt, and black pepper to create a marinade.
- Add the shrimp to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, combine diced mango, chopped red onion, cilantro, jalapeño, lime juice, and salt to make the salsa.
- Thread the marinated shrimp onto the skewers, leaving space between each shrimp.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F or 200°C).
- Grill the skewers for about 2-3 minutes on each side until the shrimp are opaque and have grill marks.
- Remove from the grill and let rest for a minute before serving with mango salsa.
Notes
- For a milder flavor, reduce the chili powder or omit the jalapeño.
- Use avocado instead of mango for a creamy twist.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- To reheat, warm the shrimp in a skillet over low heat.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer with salsa
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
Keywords: grilled shrimp, mango salsa, summer recipes, seafood, barbecue