Mains

Shrimp And Vegetable Skewers

Name: Shrimp And Vegetable Skewers
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1/2 cup (120ml) olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon (15g) gluten-free soy sauce; 1 tablespoon (15g) lemon juice; 1 teaspoon (5g) dried thyme; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 large onion, cut into 1-inch (2.5cm) pieces; 2 large bell peppers, cut into 1-inch (2.5cm) pieces

By Wesley Kingsley · June 19, 2026 · Mains

Prep20 min

Cook15 min

Total40 min

Serves4

As a home cook with a passion for gluten-free cooking, I'm always on the lookout for recipes that are not only delicious but also easy to make and fun to share with friends and family. One of my favorite dishes to serve at outdoor gatherings or quick weeknight dinners is shrimp and vegetable skewers. The combination of succulent shrimp, colorful vegetables, and a hint of smoky flavor from the grill is a winner every time.

I remember the first time I made shrimp and vegetable skewers for a backyard barbecue. The dish was a huge hit, and everyone loved the variety of flavors and textures. Since then, I've perfected my recipe and experimented with different marinades and seasoning combinations to create the perfect balance of flavors.

This recipe is special because it's incredibly versatile and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. You can use your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, and onions, and add different herbs and spices to the marinade. The best part is that it's gluten-free, making it an excellent option for those with dietary restrictions.

Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a quick and easy meal that's sure to impress. So, let's get started and dive into the world of shrimp and vegetable skewers!

In this recipe, we'll explore the art of creating the perfect skewers, from selecting the freshest ingredients to mastering the grilling technique. With a few simple tips and tricks, you'll be able to create a dish that's not only delicious but also visually stunning.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is easy to make and requires minimal preparation time.
The dish is perfect for outdoor gatherings or quick weeknight dinners.
The combination of shrimp and vegetables provides a good balance of protein and fiber.
The recipe is gluten-free, making it an excellent option for those with dietary restrictions.
The skewers can be customized with your favorite vegetables and seasonings.
The dish is visually stunning and perfect for serving at parties or special occasions.

Why This Recipe Works

The secret to making great shrimp and vegetable skewers lies in the marinade and the grilling technique. By using a combination of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs, we create a marinade that not only adds flavor to the shrimp and vegetables but also helps to tenderize them. The acidity in the lemon juice breaks down the proteins in the shrimp, making them more tender and easier to cook.

The grilling technique is also crucial in achieving the perfect skewers. By grilling the skewers over medium-high heat, we get a nice char on the outside, which adds texture and flavor to the dish. At the same time, the heat helps to cook the shrimp and vegetables evenly, ensuring that they're tender and cooked through.

Another important aspect of this recipe is the use of gluten-free ingredients. By using gluten-free soy sauce and being mindful of cross-contamination, we can ensure that the dish is safe for those with gluten intolerance or sensitivity.

Overall, the combination of a flavorful marinade, a precise grilling technique, and the use of gluten-free ingredients makes this recipe a winner. With a few simple steps and some basic ingredients, you can create a dish that's not only delicious but also impressive and fun to serve.

Ingredients You’ll Need

When it comes to making shrimp and vegetable skewers, the ingredients are just as important as the technique. We'll be using a combination of fresh vegetables, succulent shrimp, and a few pantry staples to create a dish that's not only delicious but also visually stunning. Here are the ingredients you'll need to get started:

Be sure to choose the freshest ingredients possible, and don't hesitate to experiment with different vegetables and seasonings to make the recipe your own.

1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveinedLook for fresh, sustainably sourced shrimp that are free of added preservatives or sodium. You can also use frozen shrimp, just be sure to thaw them first.
1/2 cup (120ml) olive oilUse a high-quality olive oil that's rich in flavor and has a smooth texture. This will help to add moisture and flavor to the shrimp and vegetables.
2 cloves garlic, mincedFresh garlic is essential in this recipe, as it adds a pungent flavor that complements the shrimp and vegetables. Be sure to mince it finely to release its natural oils.
1 tablespoon (15g) gluten-free soy sauceUse a gluten-free soy sauce that's made from high-quality ingredients and has a rich, savory flavor. This will help to add depth and umami to the dish.
1 tablespoon (15g) lemon juiceFresh lemon juice is essential in this recipe, as it adds a bright, citrusy flavor that cuts through the richness of the shrimp and vegetables. Be sure to use a high-quality lemon that's free of added preservatives or sodium.
1 teaspoon (5g) dried thymeFresh or dried thyme can be used in this recipe, depending on your preference. Thyme adds a subtle, herbal flavor that complements the shrimp and vegetables.
1/2 teaspoon saltUse a high-quality salt that's free of added preservatives or sodium. This will help to enhance the natural flavors of the ingredients and add texture to the dish.
1/4 teaspoon black pepperFreshly ground black pepper is essential in this recipe, as it adds a sharp, peppery flavor that complements the shrimp and vegetables. Be sure to grind it finely to release its natural oils.
1 large onion, cut into 1-inch (2.5cm) piecesUse a sweet onion, such as Vidalia or Maui, that's free of added preservatives or sodium. This will help to add a sweet, caramelized flavor to the dish.
2 large bell peppers, cut into 1-inch (2.5cm) piecesUse any color bell pepper you like, depending on your preference. Bell peppers add a crunchy texture and a sweet, slightly smoky flavor to the dish.

Ingredients for Shrimp And Vegetable Skewers

Equipment You’ll Need

Large bowlWhiskMeasuring cups and spoonsCutting boardSharp knifeSkewersInstant-read thermometer

How to Make Shrimp And Vegetable Skewers

1
In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, gluten-free soy sauce, lemon juice, thyme, salt, and black pepper to make the marinade.
2
Add the shrimp to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated shrimp, onion, and bell peppers onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4
Brush the grill with oil to prevent sticking. Grill the skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 145 F (63 C). Use an instant-read thermometer to check the temperature in the thickest part of the shrimp.
5
Once the skewers are cooked, remove them from the grill and let them rest for 5 minutes. This will help the juices to redistribute and the flavors to meld together.
6
Serve the skewers hot, garnished with fresh herbs or lemon wedges if desired.
7
To add some extra flavor to the dish, you can serve the skewers with a side of quinoa or rice, or with a simple green salad.
8
If you want to make the dish more substantial, you can add some grilled vegetables, such as zucchini or eggplant, to the skewers.
9
To make the dish more visually appealing, you can use colorful bell peppers and onions, and add some fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil, to the skewers.
10
To make the dish more convenient, you can prepare the marinade and the skewers ahead of time, and then grill them just before serving.

Expert Tips

Make sure to soak the skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from catching fire.
Use a variety of colorful bell peppers to add visual appeal to the dish.
Don't overcrowd the skewers, as this can cause the shrimp and vegetables to steam instead of grill.
Make sure to oil the grill before cooking to prevent sticking.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the shrimp are cooked to a safe internal temperature.
Let the skewers rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
Experiment with different marinades and seasonings to find your favorite flavor combination.
Consider adding some grilled pineapple or peaches to the skewers for a sweet and savory twist.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not soaking the skewers in water before grilling, which can cause them to catch fire.
Overcrowding the skewers, which can cause the shrimp and vegetables to steam instead of grill.
Not oiling the grill before cooking, which can cause the skewers to stick.
Not using a meat thermometer to ensure the shrimp are cooked to a safe internal temperature.
Not letting the skewers rest before serving, which can cause the juices to run out and the dish to become dry.
Not experimenting with different marinades and seasonings, which can lead to a boring and flavorless dish.

Variations and Substitutions

Add some diced mango or pineapple to the skewers for a sweet and savory twist.
Use different types of protein, such as chicken or beef, for a variation on the dish.
Add some grilled halloumi or feta cheese to the skewers for a creamy and tangy element.
Use different types of vegetables, such as zucchini or eggplant, to add some variety to the dish.
Add some spicy elements, such as red pepper flakes or sliced jalapenos, to the skewers for an extra kick.
Use different types of herbs, such as parsley or basil, to add some freshness and flavor to the dish.
Consider adding some grilled bread or pita to the skewers for a fun and easy snack.

What to Serve With Shrimp And Vegetable Skewers

Serve the shrimp and vegetable skewers hot, garnished with fresh herbs or lemon wedges if desired. You can also serve them with a side of quinoa or rice, or with a simple green salad. Consider adding some grilled bread or pita to the skewers for a fun and easy snack.

Some other ideas for serving the skewers include:

Grilled bread or pitaQuinoa or riceSimple green saladRoasted vegetablesGrilled pineapple or peachesFresh fruit salad

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

The shrimp and vegetable skewers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before grilling. Simply place them in a covered container and refrigerate until ready to cook.

To freeze the skewers, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.

To reheat the skewers, simply grill them until heated through, or microwave them for a few seconds until warm. You can also reheat them in the oven at 350 F (180 C) for a few minutes until warm.

Some tips for storing and reheating the skewers include:

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of shrimp should I use for this recipe?

You can use any type of large shrimp for this recipe, such as jumbo or extra-large. Just be sure to peel and devein them before marinating.

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp for this recipe. Just be sure to thaw them first and pat them dry with paper towels before marinating.

What type of vegetables can I use for this recipe?

You can use any type of vegetable you like for this recipe, such as bell peppers, onions, zucchini, or eggplant. Just be sure to cut them into bite-sized pieces and adjust the cooking time as needed.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time. Simply prepare the marinade and the skewers, and then refrigerate or freeze them until ready to cook.

How do I know when the shrimp are cooked through?

You can check the shrimp for doneness by looking for a pink color and a firm texture. You can also use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should be at least 145 F (63 C).

Can I serve this recipe as a main course or as an appetizer?

You can serve this recipe as either a main course or as an appetizer, depending on your needs. It's a versatile dish that can be adapted to any occasion.

What type of side dishes can I serve with this recipe?

You can serve this recipe with a variety of side dishes, such as quinoa or rice, a simple green salad, or grilled bread or pita. The options are endless!

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is already gluten-free, as it uses gluten-free soy sauce and does not include any gluten-containing ingredients.

The Full Recipe

Recipe Card