Shrimp Skewers

Delicious shrimp skewers with creamy garlic sauce and aromatic rice

If you're looking for a recipe that combines freshness, Mediterranean flavors, and a touch of elegance, you've come to the right place. These shrimp skewers, marinated in a vibrant mix of citrus and herbs, are not only easy to prepare but also a true feast for the taste buds. So, let’s begin the culinary adventure!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

For the skewers:
- 700 g fresh shrimp, peeled and washed
- Juice of one medium lemon
- Juice of one orange
- Zest of a quarter lemon
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 sprig of fresh basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 tablespoon sugar

For the sauce:
- 50 g butter
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 50 ml sweet milk
- 3 tablespoons sour cream
- 3 cloves garlic, crushed

For the rice:
- 200 g basmati rice
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- Salt to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Marinating the shrimp

In a large bowl, combine the lemon juice, orange juice, lemon zest, 3 tablespoons of olive oil, dried basil, fresh basil sprig, salt, pepper, turmeric, and sugar. Mix all the ingredients well to create a flavorful marinade.

Add the peeled shrimp to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes. This step is essential, as marinating will enhance the flavors and make the shrimp juicier.

Step 2: Preparing the sauce

Once the shrimp have marinated, it's time to prepare the sauce. In a pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add a tablespoon of flour and mix quickly to avoid lumps. Let the mixture simmer for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.

Gradually add the sweet milk and sour cream, continuing to stir to achieve a creamy sauce. Allow the sauce to simmer on low heat for a few minutes, adding the crushed garlic cloves one minute before turning off the heat. Taste the sauce and adjust the salt and pepper to your liking. If desired, you can add more fresh basil for extra flavor.

Step 3: Preparing the rice

While the sauce is cooking, prepare the rice. Boil 200 g of basmati rice according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain it well and mix it with a tablespoon of butter, turmeric, and a little salt. This mixture will give the rice a beautiful color and savory taste.

Step 4: Assembling the skewers

Preheat the grill or pan you will use for the shrimp skewers. Remove the shrimp from the marinade and thread them onto skewers, ensuring they are well arranged. These skewers will take on a delicious flavor when cooked on the grill.

Step 5: Cooking the skewers

Place the skewers on the grill or in the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are well cooked. Do not overcook them, as they may dry out.

Step 6: Serving

To serve, place the aromatic rice on a plate, add the shrimp skewers on top, and drizzle with the creamy garlic sauce. You can garnish with fresh basil leaves for an elegant and appetizing look.

Useful tips

- Make sure the shrimp are fresh, as the quality of the ingredients is essential for achieving a delicious result.
- You can experiment with other spices in the marinade, such as paprika or even a bit of chili for a touch of heat.
- If you don't have olive oil, you can use avocado oil or sunflower oil.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but make sure to completely thaw them and pat them dry with a paper towel before marinating.

2. What are the best side dishes for these skewers?
Besides basmati rice, you can serve the skewers with green salad, steamed vegetables, or even a quinoa salad.

3. How can I make the sauce spicier?
You can add chili flakes or chili sauce to the garlic sauce for a spicy kick.

Possible variations

- Substitute the shrimp with fish of your choice, such as salmon or sea bream, for an equally delicious option.
- If you prefer a lighter sauce, you can omit the sour cream and use only milk for a lighter sauce.

Nutritional benefits

Shrimp are an excellent source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health. They are also low in calories, making them an ideal choice for a balanced diet.

Serving and pairings

These shrimp skewers pair perfectly with a dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, which will complement the dish's flavors. You can also serve them with fresh lemonade or a fruit cocktail to add a refreshing touch to your meal.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that's left is to start cooking! This recipe for shrimp skewers with creamy garlic sauce and aromatic rice is perfect for a special dinner or a gathering with friends, and it will surely impress everyone. Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: 700 g fresh shrimp juice of one medium lemon juice of one orange peel of a quarter lemon 3 tablespoons olive oil 1/2 teaspoon powdered basil 1 sprig of fresh basil salt to taste (1 pinch or two) pepper a pinch turmeric a quarter teaspoon 1 tablespoon sugarFor the sauce: 50 g butter 1 tablespoon flour 50 ml sweet milk 3 tablespoons sour cream 3 cloves of garlic

 Tags:  shrimp skewers seafood