Caribbean Jerk Shrimp Skewers

Name: Caribbean Jerk Shrimp Skewers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon brown sugar; 1 tablespoon jerk seasoning; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon ground allspice; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro; 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined; Skewers (wooden or metal); Lime wedges, for serving

Highlighted under: Cultural Kitchen Discoveries

I absolutely love making Caribbean Jerk Shrimp Skewers for gatherings! The burst of spicy, smoky flavor combined with the sweetness of grilled shrimp creates an irresistible dish. Whether it's a backyard cookout or a cozy family dinner, these skewers are always a hit. The vibrant seasoning takes me straight to the tropics, and I can't get enough of the aroma that fills my kitchen while they're cooking. It’s both a quick and impressive recipe that I enjoy sharing with friends and family.

Created by

Sophia

Last updated on 2026-01-05T20:45:27.704Z

Every time I make these Caribbean Jerk Shrimp Skewers, I am reminded of the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean islands. The key to a perfectly spiced shrimp is letting it marinate for at least 30 minutes, which allows the flavors to penetrate deeply into the shrimp. I also find that using fresh herbs instead of dried can elevate the dish significantly, bringing brightness and freshness.

One of my favorite things about these skewers is the grilling process itself. I prefer using a charcoal grill for that extra smokiness, but a gas grill works just as well. I always thread the shrimp through the skewers in a zigzag pattern, which not only looks stunning but ensures even cooking all around!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bold and spicy jerk marinade that tantalizes the taste buds
Quick to prepare and perfect for casual get-togethers
Light and flavorful, making it a great summer dish

      

Marinade Magic

The marinade is the heart of the Caribbean Jerk Shrimp Skewers, infusing the shrimp with a bold and complex flavor profile. The combination of olive oil and soy sauce not only adds richness but helps to tenderize the shrimp. The balance of brown sugar and jerk seasoning provides a sweet and spicy kick, elevating the overall taste. Ensure that the shrimp is fully submerged in the marinade for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to penetrate deeply for a deliciously seasoned bite.

If you're in a pinch and don't have jerk seasoning handy, you can easily create a homemade version by mixing equal parts paprika, cayenne pepper, dried thyme, and ground ginger. This substitution keeps the recipe accessible while still delivering a balance of heat and earthiness. Don't hesitate to adjust the heat level to suit your taste; adding more cayenne will raise the spice quotient significantly!

Grilling Techniques

When it comes to grilling shrimp, achieving the perfect cook can be tricky. It's essential to keep an eye on the grill temperature. Medium-high heat is ideal (about 375°F to 450°F); too high, and the shrimp can become rubbery. You'll know they're done when they turn a beautiful pink and become opaque—typically about 2-3 minutes per side, depending on your grill. For best results, avoid flipping them too frequently; let them sear nicely to develop those lovely grill marks.

Another tip I find helpful is to use skewers soaked in water when using wooden ones. This prevents them from burning and imparts a slight smokiness during grilling. If you're using metal skewers, make sure to oil them lightly to prevent sticking. This way, your shrimp will slide off easily when serving, allowing for a clean presentation on the plate.

Ingredients

For the Marinade

2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 tablespoon jerk seasoning
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon ground allspice
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro

For the Skewers

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Skewers (wooden or metal)
Lime wedges, for serving

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade

In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, brown sugar, jerk seasoning, garlic powder, allspice, salt, black pepper, and cilantro until well combined.

Marinate the Shrimp

Add the shrimp to the marinade, ensuring each piece is coated well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 10 minutes to prevent burning.

Skewering the Shrimp

Thread the marinated shrimp onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.

Grilling

Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until the shrimp are pink and opaque.

Serve

Remove the skewers from the grill. Serve hot with lime wedges for a zesty finish.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add chopped jalapeños to the marinade. You can also serve these skewers with a cool yogurt sauce to balance the spiciness.

Serving Suggestions

These Caribbean Jerk Shrimp Skewers are delightful on their own but can also be served over a bed of coconut rice or quinoa for a more substantial meal. Adding a fresh mango salsa or a simple avocado salad on the side not only complements the spice but also adds color and texture to your plate. I love to garnish with additional cilantro and serve with extra lime wedges to enhance the dish’s brightness.

If hosting a gathering, these skewers make a great addition to a buffet-style meal. Consider pairing them with other tropical-themed dishes like grilled pineapple, Caribbean coleslaw, or loaded nachos. This contrast of flavors will make your menu feel cohesive and exciting!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you want to make these skewers ahead of time, you can marinate the shrimp up to 24 hours in advance. Just keep them stored in an airtight container in the fridge, and ensure they are well-coated with the marinade. This not only enhances flavor but also makes for a quick meal prep on the day of cooking—ideal for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings.

Leftover grilled shrimp can be refrigerated for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply toss them in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, avoiding overcooking. You can also use leftovers creatively; mix chopped shrimp into pasta dishes, salads, or tacos for a quick and delicious repurposing of your tropical flavors!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before marinating.

→ What can I serve with these skewers?

They pair wonderfully with rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad.

→ How long can I marinate the shrimp?

You can marinate for up to 2 hours for more intense flavor, but avoid marinating longer than that as the acid can start to cook the shrimp.

→ Can I bake these instead of grilling?

Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for about 8-10 minutes.