Espeto Seafood Skewers

If you're looking for a dish that transports you to the sunny beaches of Brazil, look no further than Espeto Seafood Skewers! This sizzling grilled seafood masterpiece, infused with bold flavors and a hint of smoky goodness, is the perfect balance of fresh, light, and totally irresistible. Think tender shrimp, juicy fish, and just the right amount of zest. Let's get cooking!

Ingredients:

• For the Seafood Skewers:

  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tail-on for extra flair!)
  • 1 pound white fish fillets (like snapper or sea bass), cut into chunks
  • 1/2 pound squid, cleaned and cut into rings
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Juice of 1 lemon (for that citrusy freshness)
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced (because garlic makes everything better)
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika (for that smoky kick)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

• For the Marinade:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust based on spice preference)
  • 1 teaspoon honey (for a touch of sweetness)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped (adds an herby zing)

• For the Grilling:

  • Wooden skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning)
  • Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions:

1. Prep the Seafood: Begin by preparing your seafood. Make sure the shrimp are peeled and deveined, the fish is cut into bite-sized chunks, and the squid is cleaned and sliced into rings. Place all the seafood in a large bowl.

2. Whisk the Marinade: In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, soy sauce, lime juice, red pepper flakes, honey, and fresh cilantro. Pour this marinade over the seafood, tossing gently to coat everything evenly. Let it sit for at least 15-20 minutes, so the flavors can get to work.

3. Assemble the Skewers: After marinating, it's time to thread your seafood onto the skewers. Alternate between shrimp, fish chunks, and squid rings, packing them close enough to hold together but not too tight. If you’re using wooden skewers, be sure they’ve soaked in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill.

4. Preheat the Grill: Fire up your grill to medium-high heat. If you're using a charcoal grill, let the coals burn down to a nice ashy white. If you're using a gas grill, just make sure it's nice and hot.

5. Grill the Skewers: Brush the grill grates with a little olive oil to keep the seafood from sticking. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turn pink, the fish is cooked through, and the squid has a slight char. You want those beautiful grill marks and just a touch of crispiness on the outside.

6. Serve & Garnish: Once the seafood is cooked, remove the skewers from the grill. Arrange them on a serving platter, and don’t forget to squeeze a little extra lemon juice over the top for that fresh citrus punch. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and a burst of flavor.

7. Dig In! Serve your Espeto Seafood Skewers with a side of rice, grilled vegetables, or a refreshing salad. You can also pair it with a cool, crisp white wine or a tangy cocktail to really get the party started.

Tips and Variations:

• If you're craving a bit of sweetness, drizzle some extra honey over the skewers before grilling for a caramelized finish.
• Want a bit more heat? Toss in some sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the marinade.
• For a twist on the classic, try grilling the skewers over a wood fire for an authentic smoky flavor.

Espeto Seafood Skewers are a true crowd-pleaser, bringing the flavors of the sea and a touch of Brazilian flair straight to your table. Simple to make but loaded with vibrant, mouthwatering flavors, these skewers are perfect for your next summer cookout or a festive dinner with friends.