As the sun shines brightly and the smell of sizzling meat wafts through the air, there’s nothing quite like the joy of gathering around the grill with friends and family. And what better way to impress your guests than with a variety of delicious skewer recipes? From classic combinations to bold and adventurous flavors, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll be counting down our top 20 flavorful skewers recipes that are sure to become new favorites.
Whether you’re a seasoned griller or just starting out, these mouthwatering morsels of meat and vegetables are perfect for any occasion. So fire up the grill, gather your ingredients, and get ready to skewer your way to culinary success!
**Recipe Countdown Begins…**
Garlic Butter Shrimp Skewers
Elevate your gathering with these succulent garlic butter shrimp skewers, perfect for a quick and impressive appetizer or main course. With minimal ingredients and easy prep, you’ll be enjoying the savory delight in no time.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or broiler to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together softened butter, garlic, and lemon juice until well combined.
3. Thread shrimp onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Brush the butter mixture evenly over the shrimp.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Grill or broil for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Teriyaki Chicken Skewers
Elevate your outdoor gatherings with these mouthwatering teriyaki chicken skewers, perfect for a quick and easy meal or snack. With the sweet and tangy flavors of teriyaki sauce, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– Wooden skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
– Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, and ginger.
3. Add chicken pieces to the bowl and toss to coat with the marinade.
4. Thread 4-5 pieces of chicken onto each skewer.
5. Brush both sides of the skewers with vegetable oil.
6. Grill for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
7. Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Beef and Vegetable Kebabs
A flavorful and colorful twist on traditional kebabs, this recipe combines tender beef with a medley of juicy vegetables for a quick and satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or outdoor gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (sirloin or ribeye), cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 yellow bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 zucchini, sliced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite marinade or seasonings
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Thread beef, bell peppers, onion, garlic, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
3. Brush with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Cook for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until beef reaches desired level of doneness.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Honey Sriracha Glazed Pork Skewers
Transform pork skewers with a sweet and spicy twist using honey and Sriracha sauce. This glaze is perfect for grilling or pan-frying, adding a depth of flavor to this classic appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons Sriracha sauce
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Wooden skewers for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, Sriracha sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and olive oil.
3. Thread pork cubes onto wooden skewers, leaving a 1-inch space between each piece.
4. Brush the honey-Sriracha glaze evenly over the pork cubes, making sure they are fully coated.
5. Grill or pan-fry for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Lemon Herb Lamb Skewers
Elevate your outdoor gatherings with these flavorful and refreshing lamb skewers, infused with the brightness of lemon and herbs. Perfect for spring and summer cooking.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder or leg, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly chopped rosemary leaves
– 1 tablespoon freshly chopped thyme leaves
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Add lamb cubes and toss to coat evenly with the marinade.
4. Thread 3-4 pieces of lamb onto each skewer.
5. Grill for 8-10 minutes per side or until lamb reaches desired doneness (medium-rare).
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional rosemary leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Spicy Tofu and Pineapple Skewers
A sweet and spicy twist on traditional skewers, these bite-sized morsels are perfect for a quick snack or appetizer. The combination of crispy tofu, juicy pineapple, and bold spices is sure to tantalize your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more to taste)
– 10 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Add the tofu cubes and toss to coat.
3. Thread a piece of tofu, followed by a chunk of pineapple, onto each skewer. Repeat until all ingredients are used up.
4. Brush both sides of the skewers with the reserved marinade.
5. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the tofu is golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Mediterranean Halloumi Skewers
Savor the flavors of the Mediterranean with these easy-to-make skewers, featuring salty halloumi cheese, sweet cherry tomatoes, and fresh mint.
Ingredients:
– 1 block halloumi cheese (about 250g)
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Cut the halloumi into small cubes (about 1-inch).
3. Alternate threading halloumi, cherry tomatoes, and mint leaves onto the skewers.
4. Brush the skewers with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill the skewers for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the cheese is golden brown and slightly melted.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Skewers
Impress your friends and family with this mouthwatering twist on traditional chicken skewers. The combination of juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and sweet BBQ sauce is a match made in heaven.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 6 slices of bacon, cut in half
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Thread chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
3. Wrap a half-slice of bacon around each chicken piece, securing with a toothpick if needed.
4. Brush the skewers with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Grill for 8-10 minutes per side, or until chicken is cooked through and bacon is crispy.
6. Brush with BBQ sauce during the last minute of grilling.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Thai Peanut Chicken Skewers
Thai Peanut Chicken Skewers: A flavorful and colorful appetizer or main course that combines the sweetness of peanut sauce with the savory taste of grilled chicken and crunchy vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 1/2 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, etc.)
– Cooking oil or peanut oil for grilling
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Blend until smooth.
3. Thread chicken and vegetables onto skewers.
4. Brush both sides of the skewers with the peanut sauce.
5. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, or until chicken is cooked through.
6. Serve hot with additional peanut sauce for dipping.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Moroccan Spiced Beef Skewers
Experience the vibrant flavors of Morocco with these aromatic skewers, perfect for a quick and easy dinner or as an appetizer for your next gathering. Marinate tender beef strips in a blend of exotic spices, then grill to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, honey, cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
3. Add the beef strips and marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
4. Thread the marinated beef onto the skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill the skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired doneness.
6. Serve hot with your favorite sides and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Grilled Vegetable Skewers with Balsamic Glaze
A flavorful and colorful vegetarian dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or outdoor gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, onions, mushrooms)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze (or reduced balsamic vinegar)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Thread vegetables onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, and balsamic glaze.
4. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the vegetable skewers.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until vegetables are tender and slightly charred.
7. Serve hot with additional balsamic glaze on the side, if desired.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Jerk Shrimp and Mango Skewers
Elevate your outdoor gatherings with these vibrant skewers that combine succulent shrimp, sweet mango, and bold jerk seasoning. Perfect for warm weather parties or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 ripe mangos, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup jerk seasoning (see note)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together jerk seasoning and olive oil. Add shrimp and toss to coat.
3. Alternate shrimp, mango pieces, and salt/pepper on skewers.
4. Grill for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Greek Chicken Souvlaki Skewers
Greek Chicken Souvlaki Skewers: A flavorful and effortless twist on traditional Greek cuisine. These skewers are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a colorful addition to your next outdoor gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 wooden skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
– Optional: red onion, bell pepper, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes for added flavor and color
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and oregano.
3. Add chicken pieces to the marinade, tossing to coat. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Thread chicken onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot with your favorite sides, such as Greek salad, hummus, or warm pita bread.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Korean Bulgogi Beef Skewers
Experience the bold flavors of Korea with these tender and juicy beef skewers marinated in a sweet and savory bulgogi sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef sirloin, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 cup bulgogi marinade (see below)
– 10 bamboo skewers
– Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Bulgogi Marinade:
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together bulgogi marinade ingredients. Add beef and marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Thread beef onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cajun Sausage and Shrimp Skewers
Add a spicy twist to your grilling routine with these flavorful Cajun Sausage and Shrimp Skewers. Perfect for a quick dinner or outdoor gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4-6 Cajun sausages (such as Andouille or smoked sausage)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Wooden skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, and Cajun seasoning.
3. Thread shrimp and sausage onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Brush the mixture from step 2 evenly over the sausages and shrimp.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Grill for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, or until sausages are cooked through and shrimp are pink.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Pesto Chicken and Zucchini Skewers
These colorful skewers are a perfect blend of creamy pesto, juicy chicken, and tender zucchini. With minimal prep and cooking time, they’re an ideal option for a quick summer dinner or outdoor gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 medium zucchini, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/2 cup pesto sauce
– 10-12 wooden skewers
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Thread chicken, zucchini, and a small dollop of pesto onto each skewer, leaving a little space between each piece.
3. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until chicken is cooked through and zucchini is tender.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Maple Glazed Salmon Skewers
Impress your friends and family with these easy-to-make Maple Glazed Salmon Skewers, featuring the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each), cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Wooden skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or broiler to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, soy sauce, olive oil, garlic, and ginger.
3. Thread salmon pieces onto wooden skewers, leaving a 1-inch space between each piece.
4. Brush the glaze evenly over the salmon, making sure not to overcrowd the skewers.
5. Place skewers on grill or broiler and cook for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Remove from heat and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Citrus Marinated Scallop Skewers
Brighten up your meal with these flavorful and refreshing scallop skewers marinated in a zesty citrus mixture.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or broiler to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together orange juice, grapefruit juice, olive oil, garlic, and Dijon mustard.
3. Add scallops to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Thread marinated scallops onto skewers, leaving a small space between each scallop.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Grill or broil skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until scallops are cooked through.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Skewers with Blue Cheese Dip
Satisfy your cravings with these mouthwatering skewers, featuring juicy chicken, spicy buffalo sauce, and crunchy veggies, served with a tangy blue cheese dip for dipping.
Ingredients:
For the skewers:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup Frank’s RedHot buffalo sauce
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
– 1 onion, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the blue cheese dip:
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1 tbsp ranch dressing
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Thread chicken, bell peppers, and onion onto skewers.
3. Brush with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally.
5. Meanwhile, mix blue cheese dip ingredients in a bowl until smooth.
6. Serve skewers hot with blue cheese dip on the side.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Sweet and Spicy Pineapple Pork Skewers
Elevate your outdoor cooking game with these sweet and spicy pineapple pork skewers, perfect for a summer barbecue or potluck. The combination of tender pork, caramelized pineapple, and crunchy bell peppers will be a hit with everyone!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork tenderloin, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 2 red bell peppers, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon sriracha sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Thread pork, pineapple, and bell peppers onto skewers.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, soy sauce, honey, and sriracha sauce.
4. Brush the mixture evenly over the skewers.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Grill for 8-10 minutes per side, or until pork is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to fire up your grill with these 20 flavorful skewer recipes! From classic combinations like garlic butter shrimp and teriyaki chicken, to international twists like Moroccan spiced beef and Korean bulgogi beef, there’s something for every palate. Whether you’re in the mood for sweet and spicy or savory and smoky, these recipes are sure to impress. With a variety of ingredients and marinades to choose from, you’ll never get bored with your grilled meals again.
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