Fresh, juicy, and bursting with vibrant citrus flavor, orange shrimp skewers are a simple yet impressive dish perfect for any occasion.

Tender shrimp marinated in a zesty orange blend, paired with a sweet and tangy glaze, makes this recipe a winner for weeknights or entertaining guests.

The best part? You can easily adapt it for vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free diets without losing its delicious appeal.

Grilling shrimp brings out their natural sweetness while the caramelized orange slices add a delightful smoky touch.

It’s an effortless way to enjoy bold flavors in a matter of minutes. Let’s dive into this recipe and make mealtime exciting!

Orange Shrimp Skewers Recipe

Ingredients

• 12 medium shrimp (use tofu cubes or mushrooms for vegetarian/vegan substitutes)
• 2 oranges (1 juiced, 1 sliced into wedges for skewering)
• 1/3 cup orange marmalade (use vegan-friendly marmalade if needed)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (or balsamic vinegar)
• 1 tablespoon of dill, parsley or cilantro, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a bowl or zip-top bag, combine half the freshly squeezed orange juice, 1 tablespoon olive oil, minced garlic, parsley (or cilantro), salt, and pepper. Toss the shrimp (or substitute) into the marinade and refrigerate for 20-30 minutes to infuse the flavors.
2. In a small saucepan, mix the remaining orange juice, marmalade, and apple cider vinegar. Heat over medium-high until it begins to boil. Lower the heat and let it simmer, whisking occasionally, until the mixture thickens into a glaze-like consistency.
3. Remove the shrimp from the marinade. Alternate threading the shrimp (or substitute) and orange wedges onto skewers.
4. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turns opaque (or tofu/mushrooms are lightly browned).
5. Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and drizzle the prepared glaze over them.
6. Serve warm with your favorite sides like steamed rice, a fresh salad, or even flatbread.

Tips For Orange Shrimp Skewers

Making orange shrimp skewers is easy, but a few simple tips can take your dish from good to great:

• Choose Fresh Shrimp: Always use fresh or properly thawed shrimp for the best flavor and texture. Remove shells and devein before marinating.
• Marinate Just Enough: Marinate the shrimp for 20-30 minutes. Too long, and the citrus can “cook” the shrimp, changing its texture.
• Soak Wooden Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
• Preheat the Grill: Ensure your grill is hot before adding the skewers. This helps prevent sticking and achieves a nice sear.
• Don’t Overcook: Shrimp cooks quickly, usually in 2-3 minutes per side. Look for a pink, opaque color.
• Brush with Glaze: Add an extra layer of flavor by brushing the glaze onto the shrimp during the last minute of grilling.

What To Serve With Orange Shrimp Skewers?

Pair these flavorful skewers with simple sides to make a complete meal. Here are some great options:

• Steamed white or jasmine rice
• Roasted or grilled vegetables
• Fresh garden salad
• Garlic butter pasta
• Crusty bread or flatbread
• Quinoa or couscous
• Mashed potatoes

How To Store Orange Shrimp Skewers?

Proper storage ensures you can enjoy leftovers without compromising on taste or safety.

• Refrigeration: Place leftover skewers in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Remove the shrimp from the skewers, then freeze them in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm the shrimp gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave for 20-30 seconds. Avoid overcooking during reheating, as shrimp can become rubbery.

How To Keep Shrimp From Sticking To Skewers?

Nobody likes it when shrimp sticks to skewers during grilling. Follow these easy tips to ensure smooth cooking:

• Oil the Skewers: Lightly brush the skewers with oil before threading the shrimp. This creates a non-stick surface.
• Choose Non-Stick Skewers: Metal skewers are naturally less sticky than wooden ones, but both can work well with a light coating of oil.
• Marinate Properly: A well-oiled marinade not only adds flavor but also prevents shrimp from clinging to the skewers.
• Preheat the Grill: Make sure the grill is hot before placing the skewers. A hot surface reduces sticking and gives a better sear.

How To Properly Skewer Shrimp?

Skewering shrimp correctly ensures even cooking and makes grilling easier. Here’s how you can do it right:

• Use Two Skewers: For better control, thread shrimp onto two parallel skewers. This keeps them from spinning while you flip them.
• Thread Through Two Points: Pierce the shrimp near the head and tail to secure them firmly. This helps them stay in place during cooking.
• Space Evenly: Leave a small gap between each shrimp on the skewer. This allows heat to circulate evenly for uniform cooking.
• Alternate Ingredients: If adding vegetables or fruit, such as orange slices, alternate them with shrimp for added flavor and texture.

How To Tell If Shrimp Is Cooked?

It’s important to avoid undercooked or overcooked shrimp. Here’s how you can tell when it’s just right:

• Color Change: Raw shrimp is gray and translucent. Cooked shrimp turns pink and opaque with red tails.
• Shape: Properly cooked shrimp curls into a “C” shape. Overcooked shrimp will curl tightly into an “O.”
• Texture: Gently press the shrimp; it should feel firm but not rubbery.
• Time: Shrimp typically cooks in 2-3 minutes per side on a hot grill. Keep a close eye to avoid overcooking.