Imagine a dish that combines the intense flavor of Spanish chorizo with the delicate tenderness of shrimp. These shrimp-chorizo skewers are a true gustatory journey that will transport your taste buds directly to the Mediterranean coast. Quick to prepare and wickedly delicious, these skewers are perfect for a dinner with friends or a quick family meal.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
- 400g peeled shrimp (medium size)
- 100g chorizo (mild or spicy)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon paprika (sweet or smoked)
- 1 garlic clove, finely chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh chopped parsley (optional)
Preparation Time
- Prep: 15 minutes
- Marinating: 10 minutes
- Cooking: 4-5 minutes
- Total time: 25 minutes
Detailed Instructions
- Ingredient Preparation
- Carefully rinse the shrimp and pat dry with paper towels.
- Cut the chorizo into rounds approximately 5mm thick.
- Marinade Preparation
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, chopped garlic, and paprika.
- Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Add shrimp and gently mix to coat evenly.
- Marinating
- Let the shrimp marinate for 10 minutes in the refrigerator.
- Skewer Assembly
- Alternate a chorizo round and a shrimp on each skewer.
- Tip: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 15 minutes to prevent burning.
- Cooking
- Heat a pan or grill to medium-high heat.
- Place the skewers and cook about 2 minutes on each side.
- Watch carefully: shrimp should be pink and slightly golden.
- Finishing
- Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley before serving.
Nutritional Information (2 skewer portion)
- Calories: Approximately 220 kcal
- Protein: 22g
- Fats: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
Cooking Tips and Tricks
- Choose medium-sized shrimp for optimal results.
- Avoid overcooking shrimp to prevent them from becoming rubbery.
- Smoked paprika will add extra depth of flavor.
- Use high-quality olive oil for enhanced taste.
Variations and Substitutions
- Alternative Proteins: Replace shrimp with chicken or tofu.
- Spices: Experiment with Espelette pepper or za’atar.
- Gluten-free: The recipe is naturally gluten-free.
- Vegetarian Version: Use vegetarian chorizo and firm vegetables.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I prepare the skewers in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the marinade and assemble skewers up to 4 hours before cooking.
How do I know when the shrimp are cooked?
Shrimp are done when they’re pink and slightly firm to the touch, about 2 minutes per side.
What side dishes pair well?
A green salad, rice, or mashed potatoes will complement these skewers perfectly.
Can the skewers be baked in the oven?
Yes, preheat the oven to 200°C and bake for 8-10 minutes, watching carefully.
How to store the skewers?
Store cooked skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for a maximum of 1 day.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigeration: Store cooked skewers in an airtight container for 1 day.
- Reheating: Quickly reheat in a pan or oven at 160°C for 5 minutes.
- Tip: Avoid prolonged reheating to prevent shrimp from drying out.
Bon appétit and enjoy!