Grilling season is upon us, and what better way to welcome it than with a light, fresh appetizer that combines the smoky flavor of grilled shrimp with the sweet and tangy bite of mango salsa? Grilled Shrimp with Mango Salsa is an easy, delightful dish perfect for any summer gathering or a simple evening dining al fresco. Follow this straightforward guide to create this appetizer that will impress your guests and tantalize your taste buds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Grilled Shrimp:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the Mango Salsa:
– 1 ripe mango, peeled and diced
– 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
– 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
– Juice of 1 lime
– 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional)
– Salt to taste
Instructions
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
Start by getting your shrimp ready. Ensure they are peeled and deveined properly. This means removing the shell and the thin, dark vein running along the back of each shrimp. Once cleaned, pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel. This helps to get a good sear on the grill.
In a bowl, mix together the olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the cleaned shrimp to the bowl and toss them until they’re well coated with the seasoning mix. Let the shrimp marinate for about 15 to 20 minutes in the refrigerator. This step ensures the shrimp are flavorful and ready to absorb the smokiness from the grill.
2. Make the Mango Salsa:
While the shrimp are marinating, begin preparing the mango salsa. This salsa is the perfect complement to the grilled shrimp, providing a sweet and spicy flavor that elevates the dish.
Start by dicing your mango, red bell pepper, and red onion into small pieces. You want these pieces to be bite-sized so they’ll blend well together. Chop up your fresh cilantro and, if you’re using it, your jalapeño. Remember, removing the seeds from the jalapeño will reduce its heat but still keep its flavor.
In a medium bowl, combine the mango, bell pepper, red onion, cilantro, and jalapeño. Squeeze the juice of one lime over the mixture and toss everything together. Season with a pinch of salt, taste, and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Set the salsa aside so the flavors can meld together while you grill the shrimp.
3. Grill the Shrimp:
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using a grill pan indoors, make sure it’s getting nice and hot. You want the shrimp to cook quickly and get those beautiful grill marks.
Thread the marinated shrimp onto skewers. If you’re using wooden skewers, remember to soak them in water for about 30 minutes before threading. This prevents them from burning on the grill.
Place the skewers on the hot grill and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them, as shrimp can become rubbery if left on the grill for too long.
4. Serving:
Once your shrimp are done, it’s time to assemble your appetizer. You can serve this dish in various ways. For a casual setting, simply place the shrimp skewers on a platter with the bowl of mango salsa on the side. Guests can help themselves, spooning some salsa onto their plates to enjoy with the shrimp.
For a more elegant presentation, remove the shrimp from the skewers and arrange them on a serving plate. Spoon some mango salsa over the shrimp or alongside them. Garnish with a few sprigs of cilantro or slices of lime to add a pop of color.
5. Enjoy:
Now, the most important step: enjoy your creation! This Grilled Shrimp with Mango Salsa makes for a delightful appetizer that’s sure to be a hit at any summer gathering. The combination of smoky, spicy shrimp and sweet, tangy salsa is irresistible and perfect for enjoying in the warm weather.
Grilled Shrimp with Mango Salsa is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of summer flavors. By following these simple steps, you’ll create an appetizer that’s both delicious and visually appealing. Happy grilling!