Surf and Turf Skewers

Name: Surf and Turf Skewers
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 lb flank steak, cut into 1-inch cubes; 1 red bell pepper, cut into squares; 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into squares; 1 zucchini, sliced into thick rounds; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; Juice of 1 lemon

Highlighted under: International Dish Inspirations

I absolutely love making Surf and Turf Skewers for gatherings! The combination of succulent shrimp and tender steak is always a hit with my family and friends. I adore how easy it is to prepare and grill these skewers, making them a fun and delicious addition to any occasion. Seasoning them with garlic, herbs, and a hint of lemon juice infuses incredible flavor into each bite. Plus, you can customize the skewers with your favorite vegetables. It's the perfect way to impress without too much effort!

Created by

Tina

Last updated on 2026-01-05T21:14:31.327Z

When I first tried making Surf and Turf Skewers, I wasn't sure how well the flavors of the shrimp and steak would meld, but I was pleasantly surprised. The combination turned out to be an absolute flavor explosion! I learned that marinating the steak for at least 30 minutes significantly enhances the depth of its flavor, and pairing it with shrimp adds a sweet contrast that elevates the dish.

Using fresh ingredients is key to achieving that desired taste. I like to include colorful bell peppers and zucchini on the skewers, not only for their vibrant appearance but also for their ability to absorb the marinade beautifully. Grilling them just until the shrimp turns pink and the veggies are slightly charred creates a mouthwatering experience that I look forward to every time.

        Why You'll Love These Skewers
        Juicy shrimp and tender steak combined for the ultimate flavor
Easy to customize with your favorite vegetables
Perfect for any barbecue or gathering
Quick cooking time for a delicious meal in no time

      

Flavorful Marinade Insights

The marinade is where the magic begins for these surf and turf skewers. The combination of olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice not only tenderizes the steak and shrimp but also infuses them with a burst of flavor. Allowing the ingredients to marinate for at least 30 minutes helps in achieving that deep flavor. If time permits, marinating them overnight elevates the taste even further, creating a more robust flavor profile that seeps into each bite.

Using fresh garlic in the marinade is key. Its pungency mellows upon cooking, contributing a rich undertone to the dish. If you're short on fresh garlic, you can substitute with garlic powder, but I always recommend fresh for the best flavor. For added depth, consider incorporating a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire into the marinade; this savory addition enhances the umami profile of both the shrimp and steak.

Perfect Grilling Techniques

When grilling the skewers, heat management is crucial. Preheat your grill to medium-high, ideally around 400–450°F. This temperature ensures the shrimp cook quickly and develop a nice sear without getting rubbery. Keep an eye on them; the shrimp will turn pink and opaque as they're ready, usually taking around 10-12 minutes overall. Turning them occasionally helps to achieve evenly cooked pieces and those coveted grill marks.

Another technique I use is to soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This prevents them from burning on the grill. If time is short, using metal skewers is a great alternative; just remember to use a pot holder or tongs as they can get extremely hot. For an added flavor twist, consider adding fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the skewers alongside your vegetables.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make these flavorful skewers:

For the Skewers

1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 lb flank steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
1 red bell pepper, cut into squares
1 yellow bell pepper, cut into squares
1 zucchini, sliced into thick rounds
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Juice of 1 lemon

Ensure you have skewers ready to assemble these delicious ingredients!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Surf and Turf Skewers:

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, combine olive oil, garlic, oregano, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Mix well.

Marinate the Steak and Shrimp

Place the cubed steak and shrimp in separate bowls, pouring the marinade over both. Allow them to marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Assemble the Skewers

Thread the marinated steak, shrimp, bell peppers, and zucchini onto skewers, alternating the ingredients.

Grill the Skewers

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the skewers for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the shrimp are pink and the steak is cooked to your desired doneness.

Serve

Remove the skewers from the grill, let them rest for a few minutes, then serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.

Enjoy your deliciously grilled Surf and Turf Skewers!

Pro Tips

For an added kick, consider brushing the skewers with a spicy garlic sauce during the last few minutes of grilling.

Serving Suggestions

These skewers can be served in a variety of ways, enhancing your dining experience. Pair them with a refreshing side salad or grilled corn for a complete meal. A dipping sauce, perhaps a tangy citrus aioli or a zesty chimichurri, elevates the dish and adds an extra layer of flavor that contrasts beautifully with the savory notes of the skewers. Consider serving them on a colorful platter to make the dish visually appealing.

For those looking to spice things up, a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha can add heat to the meal. Alternatively, you can create a taco night by serving the skewers with warm tortillas and all the toppings, such as diced avocado, fresh cilantro, and lime wedges, allowing guests to personalize their dishes.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you plan to make these skewers ahead of time, the good news is they store well! After marinating, you can freeze the uncooked skewers for up to two months. Just make sure they're tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before grilling for best results, allowing for a quick and easy meal any weekday evening.

Leftover cooked skewers can be stored in the fridge for up to three days. Enjoy them cold or quickly reheat them on a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until warmed through. You can also repurpose any leftovers into a hearty salad, adding mixed greens and your choice of dressing for a delightful next-day lunch.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of meat instead of steak?

Absolutely! Chicken or pork work great as alternatives.

→ How long can I marinate the steak and shrimp?

You can marinate them for up to 2 hours for more intense flavor.

→ Is there a vegetarian option for these skewers?

Yes! Substitute the meat with tofu and add more vegetables like mushrooms and cherry tomatoes.

→ What dipping sauces pair well with Surf and Turf Skewers?

A garlic aioli or tangy barbecue sauce makes for delicious accompaniments.