These grilled surf and turf skewers are a fun way to enjoy both shrimp and steak on a stick! Juicy, flavorful, and easy to share, they’re perfect for summer barbecues.
Just picture this: tender steak and succulent shrimp, all grilled to perfection. I can never eat just one skewer; it feels like a little feast on a stick! 😋
I love how easy these are to throw together. Just marinate, skewer, and grill! They’re sure to impress your family and friends at any gathering.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Sirloin: This cut is flavorful and tender when grilled. If you want something leaner, try flank or sirloin tip. Both work well, but flank has a bit more chew. For a different taste, you could use lamb or pork tenderloin.
Shrimp: Large shrimp are perfect here, but you can use scallops if you prefer. Make sure they’re peeled and deveined for ease. If seafood isn’t your thing, diced chicken breast or firm tofu can make a great substitute.
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds richness and helps to marinate the meat. If you need a substitute due to allergies, avocado oil works well too, or you could use canola oil for a neutral flavor.
Worcestershire Sauce: This sauce adds depth to the marinade. If you’re avoiding it, try tamari for a gluten-free option or a bit of balsamic vinegar for sweetness.
Smoked Paprika: It gives a nice smoky flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika, or even cayenne if you want more heat, can be used, but they won’t have the same smoky taste.
How Can I Get the Marinade Just Right?
Marinating your ingredients not only adds flavor but also helps to tenderize the beef and shrimp. Here’s how to make it effective:
- Start by combining the marinade ingredients in a bowl. Make sure to mix them well.
- Coat the beef cubes thoroughly and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes — longer is better for more flavor. Aim for 2 hours if you have the time!
- For the shrimp, you don’t need long. Just 15-30 minutes allows the shrimp to absorb the flavors without getting over-marinated.
Tip: Always marinate in the fridge to keep the meat fresh! And don’t forget to reserve some marinade to baste while grilling for even more flavor.
How to Make Grilled Surf And Turf Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
For the Surf and Turf:
- 1 lb beef sirloin, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes of prep time plus marinating time. You can marinate the beef for at least 30 minutes (up to 2 hours) and the shrimp for about 15-30 minutes. Grilling takes around 10-15 minutes. In total, you’ll need about 1 hour or more depending on your marinating preference.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Beef:
In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, smoked paprika, black pepper, salt, cayenne pepper (if using), lemon zest, and half of the lemon juice. Add the beef cubes to this mixture and toss them well to coat evenly. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or if you have time, up to 2 hours for deeper flavors.
2. Prepare the Shrimp:
In a separate bowl, mix the remaining olive oil, minced garlic, the rest of the lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Add the shrimp to this bowl and toss to coat them thoroughly. Allow the shrimp to marinate for 15 to 30 minutes, depending on how much flavor you want to add.
3. Preheat the Grill:
While your proteins are marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This will ensure that everything cooks evenly and gets those nice grill marks!
4. Assemble the Skewers:
Once marinated, it’s time to thread the skewers. Start with the beef cubes. Thread them onto the skewers, packing them tightly together. In separate skewers, do the same with the marinated shrimp, making sure they’re also snugly packed.
5. Grill the Skewers:
Put the skewers on the grill and let them cook! The beef skewers will take about 8-10 minutes; turn them occasionally until they reach your desired doneness. The shrimp will only need about 2-3 minutes on each side, cooking until they’re pink and opaque.
6. Serve:
Once everything is grilled to perfection, remove the skewers from the grill and transfer them to a serving platter. Dress them up with a sprinkle of chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges, if you like! Enjoy your delicious grilled surf and turf skewers!
## FAQ Section
Can I Use Different Cuts of Beef for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you prefer a more tender cut, consider using ribeye or tenderloin. Just remember that different cuts may require varying cooking times, so adjust accordingly to avoid overcooking.
What Can I Substitute for Shrimp?
If you’re not a fan of shrimp, feel free to substitute with scallops or even chunks of firm fish like salmon or swordfish. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as these proteins may cook faster or slower than shrimp.
How Should I Store Leftover Skewers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. You can reheat them on a grill or in a pan over medium heat to bring back some grill flavor.
Can I Prepare the Skewers Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Assemble the skewers and marinate them up to a day in advance. Cover them tightly and keep them in the fridge until you’re ready to grill. Just add a few extra minutes on the grill if they are coming straight from the refrigerator.
