Name: Grilled Scallops and Shrimp Kabobs for a Flavorful Feast
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 70 min
Ingredients: 1/4 cup Lemon Juice (Provides acidity and freshness, substitute with lime juice for a different citrus flavor.); 1/4 cup Olive Oil (Acts as a base for the marinade, replacing with avocado oil offers a unique taste.); 3 cloves Garlic (finely chopped); 1/2 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper (Adds a gentle heat; adjust to suit your spice preference.); 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt (Enhances the seafood's flavor beautifully, can be swapped with sea salt.); 1/4 cup Lime Juice (Contributes bright acidity to balance out rich flavors; extra lemon juice works as a substitute too.); 1 teaspoon Onion Powder (Deepens flavor in the marinade; fresh minced onion can be used as an alternative.); 1 teaspoon Lemon Pepper (Ensures a citrusy kick; can replace with a mix of lemon zest and black pepper.); 1 pound Large Shrimp (The star protein, offering both sweetness and tenderness; go for shelled and deveined for easy prep.); 1 pound Scallops (Their tender texture caramelizes beautifully on the grill; ensure they are dry for the best marinating results.); 2 tablespoons Dried or Fresh Parsley (Adds a fresh touch; fresh herbs always elevate the dish's vibrancy.); 2 tablespoons Fresh Chives (Provides a mild onion flavor; omit if unavailable, but fresh green onions make a great substitute.)

As the sun begins to set and the grill sizzles with anticipation, there’s something magical about the scent of grilled seafood wafting through the air. Today, I’m thrilled to share my recipe for Grilled Scallops and Shrimp Kabobs, the ultimate showstopper for your summer gatherings. These kabobs not only pack a punch of flavor but also offer a healthy boost of omega-3 fatty acids, making them perfect for those seeking a lean protein option. With minimal prep time, you’ll be serving up a restaurant-quality dish that’s quick and easy, leaving you with more time to enjoy the company around you. Curious about how to bring this beachside delight to your backyard? Let’s dive in!

Why Are These Kabobs a Must-Try?

Flavor Explosion: The combination of scallops and shrimp creates a delightful blend of textures and tastes, ensuring every bite is memorable.

Health Boost: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, these kabobs offer a guilt-free way to enjoy seafood while staying on track with your dietary goals.

Quick Preparation: With a mere 30 minutes of marinating time, you can have these kabobs on your grill in no time—perfect for spontaneous summer gatherings.

Versatile Options: Feel free to experiment! Add some chili flakes for heat, or try an Asian-inspired twist with soy sauce and ginger. The possibilities are endless!

Perfect Pairings: Serve with refreshing sides like keto cabbage rice or a vibrant salad to elevate your meal and impress your guests.

Why not also check out our delicious Garlic Bread Grilled Cheese for a satisfying side?

Grilled Scallops And Shrimp Kabobs Ingredients

For the Marinade

Lemon Juice – Provides acidity and freshness, substitute with lime juice for a different citrus flavor.
Olive Oil – Acts as a base for the marinade, replacing with avocado oil offers a unique taste.
Garlic (finely chopped) – Infuses aromatic flavor into the marinade; feel free to use garlic powder if you’re short on fresh garlic.
Cayenne Pepper – Adds a gentle heat; adjust to suit your spice preference.
Kosher Salt – Enhances the seafood’s flavor beautifully, can be swapped with sea salt.
Lime Juice – Contributes bright acidity to balance out rich flavors; extra lemon juice works as a substitute too.
Onion Powder – Deepens flavor in the marinade, fresh minced onion can be used as an alternative.
Lemon Pepper – Ensures a citrusy kick; can replace with a mix of lemon zest and black pepper.

For the Seafood

Large Shrimp – The star protein, offering both sweetness and tenderness; go for shelled and deveined for easy prep.
Scallops – Their tender texture caramelizes beautifully on the grill; ensure they are dry for the best marinating results.

For Garnishing

Dried or Fresh Parsley – Adds a fresh touch; fresh herbs always elevate the dish’s vibrancy.
Fresh Chives – Provides a mild onion flavor; omit if unavailable, but fresh green onions make a great substitute.

With these ingredients at hand, you’re well on your way to creating unforgettable grilled scallops and shrimp kabobs that will leave your guests raving!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Grilled Scallops And Shrimp Kabobs

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a medium bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, finely chopped garlic, cayenne pepper, kosher salt, lime juice, onion powder, and lemon pepper until well combined. This zesty marinade will infuse your Grilled Scallops and Shrimp Kabobs with flavor. Make sure everything is evenly mixed to ensure a delightful seasoning on your seafood.

Step 2: Marinate the Seafood
Place your shelled and deveined shrimp and dry scallops into a large Ziploc bag. Pour ¾ of the marinade over the seafood, ensuring they are completely coated. Seal the bag, allowing any excess air to escape, and let it rest in the refrigerator to marinate for 15-30 minutes. Turn the bag occasionally to enhance the flavor absorption.

Step 3: Prep the Skewers
While the seafood marinates, soak your wooden skewers in water for at least 1 hour. This step is crucial for preventing the kabobs from burning on the grill. Keep your skewers ready to go, as this will allow your Grilled Scallops and Shrimp Kabobs to cook evenly while securing the seafood beautifully.

Step 4: Assemble the Kabobs
Once marinated, drain and discard the marinade from the seafood. Begin threading the scallops and shrimp alternatively onto the soaked skewers. Aim for about three to four pieces of each per skewer, ensuring they are packed snugly but not overcrowded. This setup will allow the Grilled Scallops and Shrimp Kabobs to cook through evenly.

Step 5: Preheat the Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F). This temperature ensures that your grilled scallops and shrimp kabobs develop those lovely char marks without overcooking. A properly heated grill will also help you achieve that perfect caramelization on the seafood, enhancing both flavor and texture.

Step 6: Grill the Kabobs
Once the grill is hot, place the kabobs on the grates and cook for 3-5 minutes per side. Keep an eye on them, basting with the reserved marinade halfway through. The seafood should turn a lovely pink color for the shrimp and become opaque for the scallops, indicating they are cooked to perfection.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Remove the kabobs from the grill once they are cooked through, letting them rest for a minute. For the finishing touch, sprinkle with fresh parsley and chopped chives for added flavor and color. Serve your Grilled Scallops and Shrimp Kabobs warm, alongside your favorite sides, to enjoy a delightful summer feast.

How to Store and Freeze Grilled Scallops and Shrimp Kabobs

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the kabobs before grilling. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag to prevent freezer burn for up to 3 months.

Thawing: To enjoy frozen grilled scallops and shrimp kabobs, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before grilling.

Reheating: For best results, reheat skewers in the oven or on the grill instead of the microwave, as this keeps the seafood moist and prevents overcooking.

Make Ahead Options

These Grilled Scallops and Shrimp Kabobs are perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the seafood up to 24 hours in advance; simply place the shrimp and scallops in a Ziploc bag with the marinade and refrigerate. This allows the flavors to penetrate deeply while keeping the seafood just as delicious. To maintain quality, be sure not to exceed the marinating time, as seafood can become too textured if left too long. When you’re ready to grill, just thread the marinated seafood onto soaked skewers and preheat the grill. Grill for 3-5 minutes per side, and you’ll have a flavorful meal with minimal effort!

Grilled Scallops And Shrimp Kabobs Variations

Feel free to unleash your creativity and elevate your kabobs with these exciting twists and substitutions!

Add Protein: Mix in cooked ground turkey or chicken for a heartier option. This blend can create a delightful medley of flavors and textures that your family will love.
Spice It Up: Include chili flakes or hot sauce for added heat. If you enjoy a kick in your meals, this simple adjustment can take your kabobs from mild to fiery in seconds!
Asian-Inspired Twist: Incorporate soy sauce and ginger to create a stir-fry flavor. This fusion can transform your kabobs into an exotic dish, perfect for those who crave a taste of the East.
Cheesy Delight: Top with grated Parmesan for a creamy finish. This addition will enrich the kabobs, giving them a delightful savory touch that complements the seafood beautifully.
Vegetarian Boost: Introduce mushrooms or zucchini for additional texture and nutrients. Not only does this add variety, but it also makes your dish colorful and more wholesome.
Fruity Accents: Skewer pieces of pineapple or bell pepper alongside the seafood. The sweetness from the fruit brings a refreshing contrast to the other savory ingredients, enhancing every bite.
Herb Blend: Experiment with fresh cilantro or dill instead of parsley. These herbs can offer a whole new flavor profile, uplifting your kabobs and making them feel more vibrant.
Marinade Swap: For a citrus explosion, try using orange juice instead of lemon. This slight change can give your kabobs a unique and delicious twist that sets them apart from the traditional version.

Don’t forget, if you’re looking for more flavor-packed ideas, our Bang Bang Shrimp can make a great side, and a creamy Air Fryer Grilled Cheese adds an excellent touch to your meal!

What to Serve with Grilled Scallops and Shrimp Kabobs

The perfect meal begins with the delightful mingling of flavors and textures that create a feast for your senses.

Keto Cabbage Rice: This light, low-carb side complements the delicate seafood beautifully while adding a satisfying texture. Perfect for keeping the meal light and nourishing.
Refreshing Side Salad: A crisp salad made of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette can balance the richness of the kabobs, enhancing the overall meal experience.
Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus roasted with olive oil and lemon offers a vibrant flavor, echoing the citrus notes of the kabobs while providing a crunchy bite.
Garlic Herb Quinoa: Fluffy quinoa infused with garlic and fresh herbs is a nutritious and textured side, making the meal wholesome and satisfying.
Zesty Cole Slaw: A crunchy, tangy slaw provides a refreshing contrast to the warm, grilled seafood, making each bite an explosion of flavors.
Mango Salsa: This sweet and spicy salsa adds a tropical twist to the kabobs, enhancing the seafood’s natural sweetness with vibrant flair.
Chilled White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc pairs flawlessly, its acidity enhancing the flavors of the grilled scallops and shrimp while refreshing your palate.
Grilled Pineapple: Caramelized pineapple slices bring a touch of sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the savory kabobs, introducing a delightful fruity finish.

Creating a well-rounded meal with these pairings will captivate your guests and allow the star of the show, your grilled scallops and shrimp kabobs, to shine even brighter!

Expert Tips for Grilled Scallops And Shrimp Kabobs

Pat Dry: Ensure shrimp and scallops are dry before marinating to promote better flavor absorption.

Marinating Time: Limit marinade time to 30 minutes; over-marinating can cause seafood to become mushy due to acidity.

Grill Heat: Preheat your grill properly to medium-high heat to achieve those perfect char marks without overcooking.

Skewer Spacing: Thread seafood snugly onto skewers but avoid overcrowding, allowing even cooking and secure grilling of Grilled Scallops and Shrimp Kabobs.

Basting: Always baste with reserved marinade halfway through grilling for extra flavor, keeping the seafood moist and tasty.

Grilled Scallops and Shrimp Kabobs Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe scallops and shrimp?
Absolutely! When selecting scallops, look for ones that are plump and glossy without any dark spots. They should have a slightly sweet aroma of the sea. For shrimp, choose large, firm ones that are still translucent and free from any strong fishy odor. Check the shells are intact and free from any black markings.

How should I store leftovers?
Very! Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Make sure to allow the kabobs to cool completely before sealing them to retain their tenderness. If you notice any moisture accumulation inside the container, it’s best to consume them quickly to avoid spoilage.

Can I freeze Grilled Scallops and Shrimp Kabobs?
Absolutely! To freeze kabobs, do so before grilling. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a resealable freezer bag. This way, they can be stored for up to 3 months. To cook them, just thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and grill as usual for a delightful meal.

What should I do if the seafood is overcooked?
Very thankfully, there’s still a delicious way to salvage overcooked scallops and shrimp! If you find your seafood has turned tough or rubbery, consider chopping it up and mixing it into a creamy pasta or risotto. You can also add it into a seafood salad with a light dressing, allowing flavors to compliment the texture while creating a brand-new dish.

Are these kabobs suitable for dietary restrictions?
Yes, indeed! These Grilled Scallops and Shrimp Kabobs are keto-friendly and low in carbohydrates. However, they do contain seafood, so if you or someone you’re serving has shellfish allergies, it’s best to avoid this recipe altogether. Alternatively, you may substitute the proteins with chicken or tofu, marinating them in the same delicious sauce to keep them flavorful!

How long should I marinate the seafood for optimal flavor?
For the best results, I recommend marinating the scallops and shrimp for 15-30 minutes. This timeframe allows the flavors to penetrate without overdoing it—too long can result in a mushy texture. If you’re in a hurry, even a 15-minute soak can infuse a wonderful taste!