Caribbean Jerk Shrimp Skewers

Name: Caribbean Jerk Shrimp Skewers
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons Jamaican jerk seasoning; 1 tablespoon brown sugar; 1 lime, juiced; 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks; 1 green bell pepper, cut into chunks; 1 red onion, cut into chunks; Wooden skewers

Highlighted under: World Taste Recipe Collection

I absolutely love the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean, and these jerk shrimp skewers embody that spirit perfectly. Every bite bursts with spices, heat, and a touch of sweetness. Grilling these skewers gives them a delightful char that enhances the smoky flavors, making them the ideal dish for a summer cookout. The balance of spices and the juiciness of the shrimp create a truly unforgettable experience that keeps me coming back for more.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-05T21:50:28.618Z

When I first tried making Caribbean jerk shrimp skewers, I was amazed by how simple it was to bring these bold flavors to life. The marinade combines spices like allspice and thyme, along with a bit of sweetness from brown sugar, creating a perfect balance. Allowing the shrimp to marinate for just 30 minutes elevates the flavors, and grilling them results in that irresistible char.

One tip I've learned is to soak the wooden skewers in water for about 20 minutes before using them. This prevents them from burning on the grill and ensures your skewers come out intact and beautifully presented. Trust me, your guests will be impressed!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Bold, spicy jerk flavor that tantalizes your taste buds
Quick to prepare, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings
Juicy shrimp with that perfect smoky grill finish

      

The Importance of Marinating

Marinating the shrimp is a crucial step that allows the vibrant jerk flavors to penetrate deeply into the seafood, enhancing the overall taste. The olive oil not only helps the spices adhere to the shrimp but also keeps them moist during cooking. Aim to marinate for at least 30 minutes; however, for maximum flavor, consider extending it to a couple of hours if you have the time. Just be careful not to marinate too long, as the acidity from the lime can start to 'cook' the shrimp, resulting in a mushy texture.

Using Jamaican jerk seasoning adds a unique blend of spices that is characteristic of Caribbean cuisine. Look for a seasoning that contains allspice, nutmeg, thyme, and pepper. If you're looking for a less spicy alternative, you can use a mild jerk seasoning or adjust the amount to suit your taste. Remember, balancing heat with sweetness is key, so the brown sugar in the marinade plays an essential role in this recipe.

Skewering Techniques

When assembling the skewers, it's not just about flavor; the presentation matters too. By alternating shrimp with colorful vegetables like bell peppers and onions, the skewers become visually appealing as well as delicious. Make sure to cut the vegetables into chunks that are roughly the same size as the shrimp for even cooking. This ensures that everything cooks at the same rate, preventing the shrimp from overcooking while waiting for the veggies to soften.

Soaking the wooden skewers is essential to prevent them from burning on the grill. If you’re short on time, consider using metal skewers. Not only do they eliminate the need for soaking, but they also provide better heat conductivity, which can improve the cooking process. Just be cautious, as metal skewers will remain hot after grilling, so use tongs or oven mitts when handling them.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for the best flavor:

Ingredients

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons Jamaican jerk seasoning
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 lime, juiced
1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
1 green bell pepper, cut into chunks
1 red onion, cut into chunks
Wooden skewers

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious skewers:

Marinate the Shrimp

In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, jerk seasoning, brown sugar, and lime juice. Add the shrimp and mix until they are well-coated. Cover and let marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.

Prepare the Skewers

While the shrimp marinate, soak the wooden skewers in water for 20 minutes to prevent burning during grilling. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.

Assemble the Skewers

Thread the marinated shrimp, red bell pepper, green bell pepper, and onion onto the soaked skewers, alternating between the shrimp and vegetables.

Grill the Skewers

Place the skewers on the preheated grill and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.

Serve and Enjoy

Remove from the grill and serve immediately with lime wedges or your favorite dipping sauce.

Enjoy your delicious Caribbean jerk shrimp skewers!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add a slice of jalapeño between the shrimp and veggies on the skewer.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving these Caribbean jerk shrimp skewers, think outside the box. While they’re fantastic on their own, an excellent way to elevate the dish is to pair them with a tangy mango salsa. The sweetness of the mango will complement the spice of the jerk seasoning beautifully. Lime wedges can also add a zesty finish, brightening up the flavors with a fresh squeeze just before serving.

For a complete meal, consider serving these skewers alongside coconut rice or a simple green salad. The creaminess of the coconut rice balances out the spiciness of the shrimp, creating a satisfying meal. If you're having a larger gathering, you could also set up a taco bar where guests can use the shrimp as filling along with various toppings.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the cooked skewers in an airtight container in your refrigerator for up to 2 days. To maintain the texture of the shrimp, it’s best to avoid reheating them in the microwave, as this can result in a rubbery texture. Instead, reheat the skewers on a grill or in a pan over medium heat, just until warmed through—about 3 to 5 minutes should suffice.

If you're planning to make these skewers ahead of time, you can marinate the shrimp the night before and assemble them shortly before grilling. This allows you to infuse maximum flavor while saving time on the day of your event. Alternatively, consider freezing the marinated shrimp for up to two months. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before grilling.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before marinating.

→ What other vegetables can I add to the skewers?

You can include zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or even pineapple for a sweet twist!

→ How spicy are these jerk shrimp skewers?

The spice level can vary based on the jerk seasoning used, but you can adjust it to your taste by adding more or less.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the shrimp in advance and keep them in the refrigerator until you're ready to grill.