Have you ever tasted a dish that perfectly combines land and sea? Picture this: juicy pieces of tender steak paired with succulent shrimp, all beautifully grilled on skewers. The aroma wafting through the air as they cook creates an anticipation that’s hard to resist. These Surf and Turf Skewers are not just a meal; they’re an experience. Perfect for summer barbecues or cozy family dinners, they bring together rich flavors in every bite.
When I first made these skewers for a backyard gathering, the response was overwhelming. Friends couldn’t stop raving about the combination of textures—the slight char from the grill giving way to juicy meat and plump shrimp, while a hint of marinade adds complexity. They’re perfect for any occasion—whether you’re hosting a weekend barbecue or enjoying a quiet evening at home. If you’re looking for a delicious dish that pleases everyone at the table, look no further!
Why You’ll Love This Surf and Turf Skewers
- Quick Preparation: These skewers come together in no time, making them perfect for busy weeknights or unexpected guests.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out proteins or add seasonal vegetables to tailor the dish to your taste.
- Amazing Flavor Combination: The contrast between juicy beef and tender shrimp creates an unforgettable taste experience.
Ingredients You Need For Surf and Turf Skewers Recipe
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Sirloin Steak: Choose well-marbled sirloin for tenderness; cut into 1-inch cubes for even cooking.
- Shrimp: Use large peeled and deveined shrimp; fresh or frozen will work perfectly.
- Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers add sweetness; cut into squares to thread onto the skewers.
- Red Onion: Adds flavor; cut into chunks similar in size to your other ingredients.
- Olive Oil: Used for marinating the ingredients; it helps lock in moisture during grilling.
- Garlic Powder: Enhances flavor without overpowering; adjust according to your taste preference.
- Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings to elevate the overall flavor profile.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Surf and Turf Skewers
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Prepare Ingredients
Begin by cutting the sirloin steak into approximately one-inch cubes. Next, ensure your shrimp are peeled and deveined if they aren’t already.
Marinate Proteins
In a bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add both steak cubes and shrimp into the marinade. Let them sit for at least 20 minutes to absorb flavors.
Assemble Skewers
After marinating, alternate threading steak cubes, shrimp, bell pepper squares, and red onion chunks onto soaked wooden or metal skewers.
Preheat Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F or 200°C). If using wooden skewers, make sure they have been soaked in water for at least an hour to prevent burning.
Grill Skewers
Place assembled skewers on the preheated grill. Cook each side for about three to four minutes until the steak reaches desired doneness (medium-rare is typically around145°F or about63°C) while ensuring shrimp are cooked through.
Serve
Transfer cooked skewers onto a serving platter. Drizzle with extra marinade if desired before serving alongside your favorite dipping sauces or sides.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
- Soak Wooden Skewers: Always soak wooden skewers in water before grilling; this prevents them from burning on the grill.
- Even Cooking: Cut all ingredients into uniform sizes for even cooking across the board.
- Don’t Overcrowd Skewers: Leave space between items on each skewer; this allows heat circulation for better grilling results.
Mistakes to avoid
- Overcooking the Protein: One common mistake when preparing surf and turf skewers is overcooking the protein. Whether using shrimp, steak, or lobster, monitoring the cooking time is crucial. Overcooked seafood becomes rubbery, while beef can turn tough and dry. To avoid this, use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. For shrimp, look for a pink color with a slight curl. For steak, aim for medium-rare at about 135°F. This ensures each ingredient retains its natural flavor and texture.
- Neglecting Marination: Skipping the marination step can lead to bland surf and turf skewers. A good marinade enhances the flavors of your ingredients significantly. Create a simple blend of olive oil, garlic, herbs, and spices to soak your proteins before grilling. Allow at least 30 minutes for marination; however, longer is often better for deeper flavor penetration. This step elevates your dish from average to extraordinary.
- Poor Skewer Choices: Using the wrong type of skewer can ruin your cooking experience. Wooden skewers need soaking in water beforehand to prevent burning on the grill, while metal skewers conduct heat which may cook the food unevenly if not handled properly. Opt for sturdy skewers that suit your cooking method best. If you are grilling over high heat, metal skewers are ideal as they allow even cooking without risking breakage.
Serving Suggestions
This Surf and Turf Skewers is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
- Garlic Butter Rice: The rich flavors of garlic butter rice complement the savory taste of grilled beef and shrimp, creating a balanced meal that everyone will enjoy.
- Grilled Vegetables: Add color and nutrition to your plate with a mix of grilled bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes. Their natural sweetness contrasts beautifully with the umami of the skewers.
- Fresh Salad: A light arugula or mixed greens salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette brings a refreshing element that cuts through the richness of the skewers.
FAQs
What ingredients do I need for Surf and Turf Skewers?
To create delicious Surf and Turf Skewers, gather essential ingredients such as tender beef sirloin or filet mignon and fresh shrimp. You’ll also need colorful vegetables like bell peppers and red onions for added flavor. For seasoning, consider using olive oil, garlic, soy sauce, salt, and pepper to enhance the taste. Skewers can be made from metal or soaked wooden sticks. Prepare these ingredients ahead of time to ensure an easy cooking experience.
How do I grill Surf and Turf Skewers properly?
Grilling Surf and Turf Skewers requires attention to timing for perfect results. Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. Assemble the skewers by alternating pieces of meat and vegetables. Grill them for about 2-3 minutes per side until the beef reaches your desired doneness and shrimp turn pink. Be careful not to overcook either component; they should be juicy and flavorful when finished. Using a meat thermometer can help you achieve precise cooking temperatures.
Can I prepare Surf and Turf Skewers in advance?
Yes, you can prepare Surf and Turf Skewers ahead of time! Marinate the meat and shrimp several hours before grilling for enhanced flavor. Assemble the skewers without cooking them, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to cook, simply preheat your grill and cook them according to your desired method. This makes it convenient for parties or weeknight dinners.
What variations can I try with Surf and Turf Skewers?
You can get creative with your Surf and Turf Skewers by experimenting with different proteins or vegetables. Consider substituting salmon or chicken for the beef or using scallops instead of shrimp. Seasonal veggies such as mushrooms or asparagus can add unique tastes too. Additionally, try different marinades like teriyaki or chimichurri to bring new flavors to your dish. These variations allow you to customize each skewer to suit your preferences.
Surf and Turf Skewers
- Total Time: 42 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Surf and Turf Skewers perfectly blend the best of land and sea, featuring juicy sirloin steak and succulent shrimp for a delightful dining experience. This recipe is ideal for summer barbecues or cozy family dinners, offering vibrant flavors and stunning presentation. The combination of tender beef and plump shrimp, marinated in a simple yet flavorful blend, makes each bite unforgettable. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and customize; swap proteins or add seasonal veggies to suit your taste. Impress your guests or enjoy a comforting meal at home with these delicious skewers.
Ingredients
- 1 lb sirloin steak (cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 1 cup bell peppers (cut into squares)
- 1 cup red onion (cut into chunks)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Cut sirloin steak into 1-inch cubes and ensure shrimp are peeled and deveined.
- Marinate Proteins: In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Marinate steak and shrimp for at least 20 minutes.
- Assemble Skewers: Thread steak cubes, shrimp, bell peppers, and red onions onto soaked skewers.
- Preheat Grill: Heat grill to medium-high (400°F).
- Grill Skewers: Cook skewers for about 3-4 minutes on each side until the steak is medium-rare (145°F) and shrimp are cooked through.
- Serve: Transfer skewers to a platter; drizzle with extra marinade if desired.
Notes
- Soak wooden skewers in water for at least an hour to prevent burning.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the doneness of steak and ensure shrimp is pink and slightly curled.
- Experiment with different proteins like salmon or chicken, or try seasonal veggies like zucchini or asparagus for variation.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 skewers (approximately 226g)
- Calories: 330
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 39g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
Making Surf and Turf Skewers is a straightforward yet delightful culinary adventure that combines succulent seafood with hearty beef. By following simple steps for preparation and grilling, you can impress family or friends at any gathering. Remember to pair these skewers with sides like garlic butter rice or grilled vegetables for a complete meal experience. Experimenting with different proteins and vegetable combinations allows you to personalize this dish further while enhancing its flavor profile. Enjoy this delicious dish as a go-to recipe for barbecues or special occasions!
