Sizzling Skewers: Surf & Turf Meets Chimichurri

If you’re a fan of bold, robust flavors and a dish that’s not only satisfying but also visually stunning, these Surf & Turf Skewers with Chimichurri are exactly what you need. Combining juicy steak cubes and succulent shrimp, grilled alongside colorful bell peppers and red onion, this dish takes you straight to a summer BBQ—whether it’s summer or not. Topped off with a zesty, herbaceous chimichurri sauce, these skewers are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a weekend gathering, or a special occasion. Get ready for a flavor-packed meal that’s both healthy and hearty!

Ingredients:

For the Skewers:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 lb steak (such as sirloin), cut into cubes
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
• 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into chunks
• 1 red onion, cut into chunks
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Chimichurri Sauce:

• 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Preparation:

Step 1: Preheat the Grill

Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. A well-heated grill ensures that both the shrimp and steak cook evenly, achieving that beautiful sear.

Step 2: Prepare the Skewers

Begin by threading your shrimp, steak cubes, red and yellow bell peppers, and red onion onto skewers. Alternate between the shrimp, steak, and vegetables to ensure each skewer has a balanced mix of flavors. This combination guarantees that every bite will be delicious and well-rounded.

Step 3: Season and Oil

Once your skewers are ready, brush them with olive oil to prevent sticking and enhance flavor. Season generously with salt and pepper on all sides. The olive oil will also help the vegetables and proteins achieve a beautiful char while grilling.

Step 4: Grill the Skewers

Place your skewers on the preheated grill. Grill for 3 to 4 minutes per side, turning them halfway through cooking. The shrimp should turn pink and opaque, while the steak should reach your desired level of doneness. If you prefer medium-rare steak, aim for an internal temperature of around 135°F (57°C).

Step 5: Make the Chimichurri Sauce

While the skewers are grilling, prepare the chimichurri sauce. In a medium bowl, combine chopped parsley, cilantro, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes. Slowly whisk in the olive oil until the sauce is well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Chimichurri adds a fresh, vibrant contrast to the rich flavors of the grilled meats and shrimp.

Step 6: Serve

Once the skewers are done grilling, remove them from the heat and place them on a serving platter. Drizzle the chimichurri sauce generously over the top of the skewers or serve it on the side for dipping. The bright, tangy sauce complements the smoky, charred flavor of the grilled meat and vegetables beautifully.

Cooking Note:

For even more flavor, consider marinating the steak cubes in half of the chimichurri sauce for about an hour before grilling. This extra step infuses the steak with the zesty herbs and garlic, giving it an even deeper flavor profile. If you’re short on time, however, the dish will still be fantastic without marinating.

Serving Suggestions:

These Surf & Turf Skewers are versatile and can be served in various ways:

• Over Rice: Serve the skewers atop a bed of fluffy white or brown rice to soak up the extra chimichurri sauce.
• With a Salad: Pair the skewers with a fresh, crisp salad for a lighter meal. A Mediterranean or Caesar salad would be a great accompaniment.
• With Grilled Bread: Add some toasted or grilled bread on the side to scoop up the delicious chimichurri and grilled veggies.
• Tacos: Turn this dish into fun Surf & Turf tacos by removing the shrimp and steak from the skewers and placing them in soft tortillas. Drizzle with chimichurri for a fun twist.

Tips:

• Soak Wooden Skewers: If you’re using wooden skewers, be sure to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before threading the ingredients. This helps prevent them from burning on the grill.
• Control Doneness: Since shrimp cooks faster than steak, you might want to grill separate skewers for shrimp and steak to control the doneness better.
• Spice It Up: For those who like a little kick, add more red pepper flakes to the chimichurri or sprinkle some cayenne pepper on the shrimp before grilling.
• Choose the Right Steak: Sirloin is a good option for these skewers because it’s flavorful and tender. However, you can also use filet mignon or ribeye for an even more indulgent meal.

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

• Calories: 400 kcal
• Protein: 35g
• Sodium: 600mg

FAQs:

Can I Use a Different Protein?

Absolutely! While this recipe calls for shrimp and steak, feel free to substitute with other proteins like chicken, lamb, or even tofu for a vegetarian version. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly depending on your protein of choice.

What If I Don’t Have a Grill?

If you don’t have a grill, you can cook the skewers on a stovetop grill pan or even in the oven. For stovetop cooking, use medium-high heat, and for the oven, preheat to 400°F (200°C) and bake the skewers for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Can I Make the Chimichurri Sauce Ahead of Time?

Yes, the chimichurri sauce can be made up to 2 days ahead and stored in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld together even more, making it extra delicious when served.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Leftover skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a skillet or in the oven before serving. The chimichurri sauce can be stored in a separate container for up to 5 days.

Conclusion:

These Surf & Turf Skewers with Chimichurri are the perfect marriage of flavors, textures, and colors. Whether you’re grilling for a family dinner or hosting a summer BBQ, these skewers are sure to be a hit. The combination of juicy shrimp, tender steak, and vibrant vegetables all brought together with a tangy chimichurri sauce makes this dish irresistible. Don’t forget to add your personal touch, whether it’s a little extra spice or a creative serving suggestion. Enjoy this delightful recipe that will surely become a favorite!

Print