Grilled surf and turf skewers are the perfect mix of juicy steak and tender shrimp, all cooked together on skewers. They’re easy to make and packed with flavor!
These skewers always impress my friends at BBQs. I love how they look on a plate, and the combination of flavors makes everyone happy. Don’t forget the dipping sauce for that extra zing!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef: For a meaty texture, use sirloin or tenderloin. If you’re looking for a leaner option, try using flank steak or even chicken breast for a lighter twist.
Shrimp: Large shrimp work best, but you can also use scallops or even chunks of firm fish like salmon. Just remember that cooking times will vary!
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is preferred for its rich flavor. If you’re looking for alternatives, avocado oil or melted butter can also work well.
Worcestershire Sauce: This adds depth to the flavor. If you don’t have it handy, a mix of soy sauce with a splash of vinegar is a good substitute.
Spices: Smoked paprika gives a nice smoky flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika or even cayenne pepper for a bit of heat can be good alternatives.
How Do I Properly Marinate Meat and Seafood?
Marinating is essential for flavor and tenderness! Here’s how to do it right:
- **For the Beef:** Mix all marinade ingredients well and toss your cubes in, ensuring they’re well coated. Allow to marinate for at least 30 minutes, preferably in the fridge for up to 2 hours. This not only flavors the beef but also helps to break down tough fibers.
- **For the Shrimp:** Keep it simple! Lightly coat the shrimp in the marinade and let it sit for about 15-20 minutes. Since shrimp cook quickly, they don’t need as long to soak up flavor.
Remember, don’t skip the marinating step! It’s where the magic happens, making your skewers delicious and tender.
How to Make Grilled Surf and Turf Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Skewers:
- 1 pound beef sirloin or tenderloin, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Skewers (metal or soaked wooden skewers)
For the Marinades:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (divided into two tablespoons)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty dish will take about 1 hour in total: 30 minutes to marinate the beef, around 15–20 minutes for the shrimp, and another 15–20 minutes for grilling. It’s simple, flavorful, and perfect for a fun meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Beef:
In a medium bowl, combine half of the olive oil, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, minced garlic, smoked paprika, black pepper, salt, and oregano. Add the beef cubes to the bowl, and toss everything together to coat the beef well. Let this sit and marinate for at least 30 minutes, or you can keep it in the refrigerator up to 2 hours for more flavor.
2. Marinate the Shrimp:
While the beef is marinating, take another bowl and mix the remaining olive oil, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, garlic, black pepper, and salt. Add the shrimp, and toss to coat them nicely. Let these marinate for about 15–20 minutes to take on that delicious flavor.
3. Prepare the Skewers:
If you’re using wooden skewers, remember to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill. While that’s happening, preheat your grill to medium-high heat so it’s hot and ready to cook your skewers!
4. Assemble the Skewers:
Take your marinated beef and carefully thread the cubes onto the skewers, making sure to leave a little space between each piece for even cooking. Do the same with the marinated shrimp, threading them onto separate skewers.
5. Grill the Skewers:
Place the skewers on your preheated grill. Grill the beef skewers for about 8–10 minutes, turning them occasionally until they reach your desired doneness. For the shrimp, grill them for about 3–5 minutes, turning until they turn pink and opaque—this means they are cooked perfectly.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
When the skewers are done grilling, take them off the grill and let them cool for a minute. Garnish with some chopped parsley for a fresh touch. Serve your delicious grilled surf and turf skewers with your favorite dipping sauce or sides, and enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Other Proteins for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you prefer chicken or pork, you can substitute them for the beef. Just ensure to adjust the marinating time slightly; chicken may need about 1 hour, while pork can marinate for 30–60 minutes, depending on the cut.
What If I Don’t Have Smoked Paprika?
No worries! You can use regular paprika for a milder flavor. If you’d like to add a smoky element, consider mixing in a pinch of cayenne pepper or using a little bit of liquid smoke in the marinade. Adjust according to your taste preferences!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them on a grill pan or in the oven at a low temperature until warmed through. Be careful not to overcook to keep them tender!
Can I Make This Recipe in the Oven?
Yes, you can! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the assembled skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for about 10-15 minutes, turning halfway through, until cooked through. This method is great for those without a grill!
