Tender shrimp with Asian-inspired flavor is easy to prepare, quick to cook, and makes a popular appetizer or entree.
At a cookout years ago, my friend Judy dished up grilled shrimp that was absolutely delicious: light tasting and tender with just a hint of sweetness.
I jotted down the recipe, which was mayonnaise-based with an Asian twist, and made a similar version frequently over the years, always served to smiling faces.
In recent years, I began working in Greek yogurt for a portion of the mayo. Recently, I decided to try the recipe with all Greek yogurt. Guess what? Not a person noticed a difference!
Because I do think a little mayo enhances the flavor, I use the 50-50 combination in the recipe below. Feel free to use all mayonnaise, all yogurt, or something in the middle. Whichever way, the marinade helps to tenderize the shrimp and the flavors are subtle yet delicious.
While apricot preserves are in keeping with the Asian theme to this marinade, I often use my homemade peach jam. Use whichever flavor you prefer or have on hand.
If you’d like more ginger flavor and a quick side dish, try pairing the kabobs with Honey Ginger Tomato Salad. Or serve them as a special hors d’oeuvre when entertaining.
Between the great taste and the easy, advance prep not to mention the quick cooking time–this is a recipe I return to often.
Apricot Ginger Shrimp Kabobs
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (non-fat, 2%, or whole as preferred)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup apricot preserves (can substitute peach jam)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 rounded tablespoon fresh ginger, minced (I have used a teaspoon of dried ginger before)
- a few dashes hot sauce (I use 4-5 shakes of Tabasco; add to your taste)
- 2 pounds jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined with the tail left on (thawed if frozen)
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine all ingredients except for the shrimp.
- Place shrimp in a large zipper-top bag. Add the marinade and fully distribute.
- Place in the refrigerator and allow the shrimp to marinate for several hours. I like to let it marinate all afternoon if possible, but have done it for as short as an hour. The longer it sits, the more the flavor will develop.
- When ready to grill, thread the shrimp on the skewers. To anchor the shrimp well, place the skewer through the top and bottom of each shrimp. You may also thread each shrimp on two separate skewers to prevent spinning.
- Grill over medium heat for about 3 minutes per side or until shrimp is just pink.
Leave a Reply