Grilled Seafood Skewers Summer

These grilled seafood skewers capture the true essence of summer dining with their vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients. Perfect for a backyard barbecue or a light weeknight dinner, this recipe brings together succulent shrimp, tender scallops, and firm white fish, all beautifully complemented by crunchy bell peppers and sweet onions. The marinade infuses every bite with citrusy brightness and aromatic rosemary, making these skewers a delicious celebration of the season.

I first grilled these skewers at a family picnic, and they were such a hit that they became our go to summer meal. The combination of seafood and fresh veggies is always a crowdpleaser.

Ingredients

• Shrimp: peeled and deveined to ensure easy eating and quick cooking
• Scallops: choose fresh sea scallops for a sweet and tender bite
• Firm white fish: such as halibut or swordfish cut into oneinch cubes for easy grilling without falling apart
• Bell peppers: any color for vibrant crunch and slight sweetness
• Large red onion: cut into wedges for a balanced sweetness and caramelization on the grill
• Lemon: both juice and zest to add bright citrus notes essential for balancing seafood flavors
• Garlic: minced to infuse savory depth into the marinade
• Olive oil: good quality extra virgin olive oil to help tenderize the seafood and add richness
• Fresh rosemary: chopped for a fragrant earthy hint that pairs perfectly with seafood
• Salt: essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural flavors
• Black pepper: freshly ground for a subtle spicy kick
• Wooden or metal skewers: for easy threading and grilling, if using wooden skewers soak them in water beforehand to prevent burning

Instructions

Savor the Marinade:

Combine lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, olive oil, chopped rosemary, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. Stir thoroughly to create a flavorful marinade that will tenderize and season the seafood.

Marinate the Seafood:

Add the shrimp, scallops, and cubed fish to the marinade. Toss gently but thoroughly to coat every piece. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate.

Prepare the Skewers:

Thread the seafood and vegetables onto your skewers, alternating shrimp, scallops, fish, bell pepper pieces, and red onion wedges. This not only looks beautiful but ensures a mix of flavors in every bite.

Preheat the Grill:

Get your grill hot to a mediumhigh temperature. If you are using a charcoal grill, wait until the coals are covered with ash for even cooking.

Grill the Skewers:

Place the assembled skewers on the grill. Let them cook for about 4 to 5 minutes on one side until the seafood starts to firm up and develop a light char. Turn carefully and cook the other side for another 4 to 5 minutes or until seafood is opaque and cooked through. Avoid overcooking to keep the seafood tender.

Rest and Serve:

Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for one minute. This allows juices to redistribute. Serve promptly with a sprinkle of extra lemon juice for brightness.

The lemon rosemary marinade is my favorite part because it livens up every bite without overpowering the natural seafood flavor. One summer, while grilling these skewers on the beach, the fresh aroma of rosemary and lemon mixed with the sea breeze created unforgettable memories for my family.

Storage Tips

You can refrigerate leftover cooked skewers in an airtight container for up to two days. When ready to eat, reheat gently on the grill or in a skillet to preserve texture. Avoid microwaving as it can make the seafood rubbery.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you cannot find scallops, try using extra firm white fish or large firm shrimp instead. For a different vegetable twist, zucchini or cherry tomatoes work beautifully on skewers. Fresh thyme can substitute rosemary if preferred.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these skewers alongside a simple green salad or a quinoa salad tossed with fresh herbs and lemon vinaigrette. Grilled pita bread and a tzatziki sauce make excellent accompaniments for a Mediterraneanstyle meal.

Keep an eye on the seafood to avoid overcooking as a minute or two can make the difference between tender and tough.

Common Questions About Recipes

→ What types of seafood work best for these skewers?

Shrimp, scallops, and firm white fish like halibut or swordfish are excellent choices due to their texture and grill-friendly qualities.

→ How long should the seafood marinate?

Marinating for at least 30 minutes helps infuse the lemon, garlic, and rosemary flavors deep into the seafood.

→ What grilling tips ensure even cooking?

Preheat the grill to medium-high and turn the skewers every 4-5 minutes to cook the seafood evenly without drying it out.

→ Can I use wooden skewers instead of metal ones?

Yes, but soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.

→ What vegetables pair well on the skewers?

Bell peppers and red onions add color, crunch, and sweetness that complement the seafood perfectly.