Grilled Shrimp Skewers with Mango Salsa: A Fresh & Flavorful Dish

Grilled shrimp skewers are a summer favorite, but when paired with sweet and zesty mango salsa, they become something truly special. The smoky, charred shrimp combined with the fresh, tropical flavors of mango create a dish that’s light, refreshing, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re making them for a backyard BBQ, a weeknight dinner, or a special occasion, these skewers are incredibly easy to prepare and guaranteed to impress.

Let’s dive into everything you need to know to make perfect grilled shrimp skewers with mango salsa—from choosing the best shrimp to grilling tips and serving ideas.

1. Why Grilled Shrimp Skewers?

Shrimp is one of the quickest and easiest proteins to cook, making it perfect for grilling. When skewered, shrimp cooks evenly and gets a delicious smoky char. Here’s why shrimp skewers are a must-try:

• Fast and easy – Shrimp cooks in minutes, making it great for busy nights.
• Healthy and light – High in protein, low in fat, and packed with nutrients.
• Versatile – Can be flavored with different marinades and seasonings.
• Perfect for grilling – Absorbs smoky flavors beautifully and gets a delicious sear.

Pairing shrimp with mango salsa adds a burst of freshness and a touch of natural sweetness, making it the ultimate summer dish.

2. Choosing the Best Shrimp

Not all shrimp are the same. To get the best results, follow these tips:

• Use large or jumbo shrimp (16/20 or 21/25 count per pound). Smaller shrimp cook too quickly and can dry out.
• Fresh vs. frozen – Fresh shrimp is great, but frozen shrimp is just as good if thawed properly.
• Peeled and deveined – Saves time and makes eating easier. If using shell-on shrimp, peel them before skewering.
• Wild-caught vs. farm-raised – Wild-caught shrimp often have better flavor and texture.

If using frozen shrimp, thaw them overnight in the fridge or place them in cold water for 15-20 minutes before cooking.

3. The Perfect Marinade for Grilled Shrimp

Shrimp absorbs flavor quickly, so a short marinade time is all you need. Here’s a simple but delicious marinade:

Ingredients:

• ¼ cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon cumin
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for spice)

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, whisk all ingredients together.
2. Add shrimp and toss to coat evenly.
3. Let marinate for 15-30 minutes (no longer, or the lime juice will start “cooking” the shrimp).

This marinade gives the shrimp a balance of citrus, smokiness, and spice, complementing the mango salsa perfectly.

4. How to Grill Shrimp Skewers

Grilling shrimp is easy, but a few tips will ensure they come out juicy and flavorful:

Preparing the Skewers

• If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
• Thread 4-5 shrimp per skewer, leaving a little space between them for even cooking.

Grilling Instructions

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (375-400°F).
2. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
3. Place shrimp skewers on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
4. Remove from the grill and let rest for a minute before serving.

Avoid overcooking—the shrimp should be firm but not rubbery.

5. Making the Best Mango Salsa

Mango salsa adds a bright, tropical contrast to the smoky shrimp. It’s sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy, making it the perfect pairing.

Ingredients:

• 1 ripe mango, diced
• ½ red bell pepper, diced
• ¼ red onion, finely chopped
• 1 small jalapeño, minced (optional for spice)
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
• Juice of 1 lime
• ½ teaspoon salt

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a bowl and mix well.
2. Let sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

For variation, you can add diced avocado, pineapple, or cucumber.

6. How to Serve Grilled Shrimp Skewers with Mango Salsa

These shrimp skewers can be served in many ways:

• As a main dish – Serve over rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad.
• In tacos – Place shrimp in warm tortillas with mango salsa and a drizzle of lime crema.
• On skewers – Simply serve with a side of grilled vegetables.
• As an appetizer – Serve with a light dipping sauce for a crowd-pleasing starter.

For extra flavor, serve with a side of lime wedges and a sprinkle of Tajín seasoning.

Print

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen shrimp for grilling?
Yes! Just thaw them properly in the fridge or in cold water before marinating.

2. How do I prevent shrimp from sticking to the grill?
Oil the grill grates before cooking and avoid moving the shrimp too much while grilling.

3. How long should I marinate shrimp?
Marinate shrimp for 15-30 minutes. Longer than that can make the shrimp mushy due to the citrus.

4. Can I cook these shrimp skewers indoors?
Yes! Use a grill pan or broil them in the oven.

5. What can I serve with shrimp skewers?
Rice, grilled vegetables, tortillas, or a fresh salad are all great options.

6. How do I know when shrimp is done cooking?
Shrimp turns pink and opaque when fully cooked. It should be firm but not rubbery.

7. Can I make the mango salsa ahead of time?
Yes! Mango salsa can be made up to 24 hours in advance and stored in the fridge.

8. What other fruits can I use in salsa?
Pineapple, peach, or avocado work well as substitutes for mango.

9. How do I store leftover shrimp skewers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

10. Can I use other seasonings for the shrimp?
Absolutely! Try Cajun seasoning, lemon pepper, or a simple garlic butter mix.