Get ready to elevate your summer grilling game with these mouthwatering Agave Cilantro Shrimp Skewers! Bursting with vibrant flavors and a hint of sweetness, this Mexican-inspired dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a lively backyard barbecue. Imagine tender shrimp marinated in a zesty blend of agave syrup, fresh cilantro, and lime, all paired with a spicy citrus dipping sauce that will leave your taste buds dancing. In just 25 minutes, you can whip up this delightful recipe that serves four, making it an ideal choice for gatherings or a cozy night in. Are you ready to impress your family and friends? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/4 cup agave syrup
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 lime, juiced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt to taste
- For dipping sauce: 1/2 cup sour cream, 1 tablespoon sriracha
Instructions
- Start by preparing the shrimp. If not already done, peel and devein 1 pound of shrimp. Rinse them under cold water and pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine 1/4 cup of agave syrup, 1/4 cup of freshly chopped cilantro, the juice of 1 lime, 1 teaspoon of chili powder, and salt to taste. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Add the shrimp to the bowl with the marinade. Toss the shrimp in the mixture until they are evenly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- While the shrimp is marinating, prepare the spicy citrus dipping sauce. In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup of sour cream and 1 tablespoon of sriracha. Mix well until smooth and set aside.
- After the shrimp has marinated, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 10 minutes to prevent burning.
- Once the grill is hot, thread the marinated shrimp onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each shrimp to ensure even cooking.
- Place the shrimp skewers on the grill. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them, as shrimp can become rubbery.
- Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a minute before serving.
- Serve the agave cilantro shrimp skewers hot with the spicy citrus dipping sauce on the side. Garnish with additional chopped cilantro and lime wedges if desired.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Shrimp: Opt for fresh, high-quality shrimp for the best flavor. If using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before marinating.
- Marinate for Flavor: Allow the shrimp to marinate for at least 15 minutes. This not only enhances the flavor but also helps tenderize the shrimp.
- Skewer Wisely: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 10 minutes before grilling to prevent burning. Alternatively, metal skewers can be used for convenience.
- Watch the Cooking Time: Shrimp cooks quickly! Keep a close eye on them while grilling—about 2-3 minutes per side is all you need for perfectly cooked shrimp that are juicy and tender.
- Customize Your Dipping Sauce: Feel free to adjust the spiciness of the dipping sauce by adding more or less sriracha according to your taste. You can also mix in some lime zest for an extra citrus kick!
- Garnish for Presentation: For a beautiful presentation, garnish your skewers with additional chopped cilantro and lime wedges before serving. It adds a pop of color and freshness!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 180mg
