Imagine the flavors of a New Orleans boil crammed into an efficient, skewered package, and you've got yourself our grilled Cajun shrimp skewers. Plump, juicy shrimp are coated in a potent blend of Cajun seasoning, garlic, and olive oil, then grilled to smoky perfection. The result is a dish that's both addictive and easy to make, perfect for a backyard party or a casual weeknight dinner.
The origins of Cajun cuisine are as rich and flavorful as the food itself. It's a melting pot of culinary traditions, drawing inspiration from the French, Spanish, and African cultures that have shaped the history of Louisiana. Cajun shrimp skewers are a testament to this heritage, combining the bold flavors of Cajun seasoning with the simplicity of grilled seafood.
In the early days of Cajun cooking, shrimp were often cooked over an open fire, skewered on sticks to keep them from falling into the flames. This method imparted a unique smoky flavor to the shrimp, and it's a tradition that continues to this day. Our grilled Cajun shrimp skewers are a modern take on this classic dish, using a flavorful marinade and a hot grill to create a dish that's both delicious and easy to make.
Prep time: 15 | Cook time: 10 | Serves: 4
Ingredients
1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
10 wooden skewers
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
1 lemon, cut into wedges
Instructions
Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
In a medium bowl, combine the shrimp, olive oil, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Toss to coat the shrimp evenly.
Thread the shrimp onto the skewers.
Grill the skewers for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are cooked through.
Serve the skewers immediately, garnished with parsley and lemon wedges.
Why It Works
The Cajun seasoning blend is a key component of this dish, providing a complex mix of flavors that perfectly complement the shrimp.
Marinating the shrimp in the olive oil helps to keep them moist and juicy during grilling.
Grilling the shrimp over high heat creates a smoky flavor and a beautiful char.
Serving the shrimp skewers with lemon wedges and fresh parsley adds a bright, refreshing touch to the dish.