Skewers: Surf & Turf Meets Chimichurri

Skewers: Surf & Turf Meets Chimichurri is the perfect dish for any gathering or special occasion. With juicy sirloin steak and succulent shrimp, all drizzled with a zesty chimichurri sauce, this recipe combines bold flavors and simple preparation. Ideal for summer BBQs, family dinners, or even date nights, these skewers are sure to impress your guests and elevate your culinary repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor Explosion: The combination of savory steak and shrimp paired with fresh chimichurri creates a mouthwatering experience.
• Quick Preparation: With a prep time of just 20 minutes, you can have these delicious skewers ready in no time.
• Versatile: Perfect for grilling outdoors or cooking indoors, these skewers suit any occasion or season.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and fresh herbs, this dish provides a nutritious option without sacrificing flavor.
• Easy Cleanup: Grilling on skewers means less mess and fewer dishes to wash afterward.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your tools to streamline the process. Having everything ready makes cooking more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Skewers (wooden or metal)
• Mixing bowl
• Basting brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Essential for achieving that smoky flavor and perfect char on your skewers.
• Skewers: Help hold the meat and shrimp together while cooking; choose wood for soaking or metal for durability.
• Mixing bowl: Vital for combining the chimichurri ingredients seamlessly.
• Basting brush: Helps apply oil evenly to your skewers for enhanced taste and moisture.

Ingredients

For Chimichurri Sauce:

• 1 cup olive oil
• ½ cup red apple vinegar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ⅔ cup minced shallot
• ⅔ cup minced fresh parsley
• 2 tsp chopped fresh basil
• 2 tsp chopped fresh thyme
• 2 tsp chopped fresh oregano
• 2 tsp chopped cilantro
• 1 jalapeno, finely chopped
• 1 tsp sea salt
• ⅛ tsp cayenne pepper (or more to taste)

For Surf and Turf:

• 3 lbs sirloin steak, cut into 1 cubes
• 1 package (16 ounces) jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined, tail-on
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Skewers: Surf & Turf Meets Chimichurri

Step 1: Prepare the Chimichurri Sauce

1. Stir all ingredients together in a bowl until well combined.
2. Leave at room temperature for two hours to allow flavors to meld.

Step 2: Prepare the Surf and Turf

1. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 1 hour to prevent burning.
2. Preheat grill to medium-high heat (about 425°F).
3. Cut beef into 1 cubes and thread steak and shrimp onto skewers alternately.
4. Brush olive oil onto skewers and then lightly season with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Grill the Skewers

1. Place the prepared skewers on the preheated grill.
2. Grill for about 8-10 minutes, turning every four minutes until shrimp is opaque and steak reaches desired doneness.

Step 4: Serve

1. Remove from heat and drizzle generously with chimichurri sauce.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Skewers: Surf & Turf Meets Chimichurri!

How to Serve Skewers: Surf & Turf Meets Chimichurri

Serving skewers is all about presentation and flavor. These delightful skewers can be served in various ways to enhance their appeal and taste. Here are some serving suggestions that will make your dish stand out.

On a Platter

• Arrange the skewers on a large platter for a rustic look. This allows guests to easily pick their favorite pieces.

With Extra Chimichurri

• Serve additional chimichurri sauce on the side for dipping. This adds an extra layer of flavor that guests will love.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro over the skewers for a pop of color and freshness.

Accompanied by Lemon Wedges

• Include lemon wedges on the side. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens up the flavors beautifully.

With Skewered Vegetables

• Add grilled vegetables, such as bell peppers and zucchini, on separate skewers. This creates a colorful and healthy addition to your meal.

As Part of a Buffet

• Include these skewers in a buffet lineup at parties or gatherings. They are easy to serve and perfect for sharing.

How to Perfect Skewers: Surf & Turf Meets Chimichurri

Perfecting your skewers takes practice but following these tips will elevate your dish. Here’s how to make them even better.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Choose fresh vegetables and high-quality meat for the best flavor.
• Marinate Ahead: Marinating the steak before grilling adds depth to the flavors and tenderizes the meat.
• Preheat Your Grill: A hot grill ensures that the shrimp cooks quickly while giving a nice char to the steak.
• Avoid Overcrowding: Leave space between each piece on the skewer for even cooking.
• Check Doneness Frequently: Use a meat thermometer to ensure both steak and shrimp are perfectly cooked without drying out.
• Let Rest Before Serving: Allowing the skewers to rest for a few minutes after grilling helps retain juices.

Best Side Dishes for Skewers: Surf & Turf Meets Chimichurri

Complementing your skewers with delicious sides enhances your dining experience. Here are some tasty options:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy slices drizzled with garlic butter are perfect for soaking up extra chimichurri.
2. Grilled Corn Salad: A refreshing salad made with sweet corn, tomatoes, and lime dressing pairs well with grilled flavors.
3. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs add a comforting touch to your meal.
4. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with creamy dressing provides a crunchy contrast.
5. Quinoa Pilaf: This light and nutty dish offers a nutritious base while complementing the rich flavors of the skewers.
6. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and balances the richness of surf and turf.
7. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf infused with herbs is an excellent canvas to absorb chimichurri sauce.
8. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with grains or cheese make an eye-catching side dish option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Skewers: Surf & Turf Meets Chimichurri, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the Soaking Step: If using wooden skewers, not soaking them in water can lead to burning on the grill. Remember to soak them for at least one hour before use.
• Overcooking the Shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly and can become rubbery if overcooked. Keep an eye on them and aim for 8-10 minutes total grilling time.
• Not Letting Chimichurri Rest: Failing to let your chimichurri sauce sit for two hours diminishes its flavor. Allowing it to rest helps the ingredients meld beautifully.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Under-seasoning can lead to bland skewers. Always taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper before grilling.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Starting with cold steak or shrimp can lead to uneven cooking. Ensure they are at room temperature before threading onto skewers.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover skewers in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Skewers: Surf & Turf Meets Chimichurri

• Wrap individual skewers tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.

Reheating Skewers: Surf & Turf Meets Chimichurri

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place skewers on a baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place skewers on a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a little oil, and reheat skewers for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally for even heating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I customize the chimichurri sauce?

Yes! You can adjust the herbs based on your preference or add extra spices for more heat.

How do I know when my steak is done?

Use a meat thermometer; aim for 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare and adjust according to your preferred doneness.

What type of shrimp works best for these skewers?

Jumbo shrimp are ideal as they hold up well during grilling. Make sure they are peeled and deveined.

Can I prepare the skewers in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the skewers ahead of time but grill them just before serving for best results.

How does chimichurri enhance my skewers?

Chimichurri adds a fresh, herby flavor that complements both steak and shrimp beautifully, enhancing overall taste.

Final Thoughts

Skewers: Surf & Turf Meets Chimichurri offer a delightful combination of flavors that everyone loves. This dish is versatile; feel free to swap out proteins or customize the chimichurri sauce with your favorite herbs. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the delicious results!

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Skewers: Surf & Turf Meets Chimichurri

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Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Skewers: Surf & Turf Meets Chimichurri, a dish that perfectly marries juicy sirloin steak with succulent shrimp, all drizzled in an aromatic chimichurri sauce. This easy-to-make recipe is ideal for any gathering—be it summer barbecues, family dinners, or romantic date nights. With a prep time of just 20 minutes and a delightful flavor explosion in every bite, you’ll surely impress your guests and elevate your cooking skills. Perfect for grilling outdoors or cooking inside, these skewers are versatile and fun to serve!

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3 lbs sirloin steak (cut into 1" cubes)
• 1 package (16 oz) jumbo shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 1 cup olive oil
• ½ cup red apple vinegar
• Fresh herbs (parsley, basil, thyme, oregano, cilantro)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Jalapeno (finely chopped)

Instructions

1. Prepare the chimichurri sauce by mixing all sauce ingredients in a bowl and letting it rest for two hours at room temperature.
2. Soak wooden skewers for one hour if using; preheat the grill to medium-high heat (425°F).
3. Thread steak and shrimp onto skewers alternately; brush with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill skewers for about 8-10 minutes, turning every four minutes until shrimp is opaque and steak reaches desired doneness.
5. Drizzle with chimichurri sauce and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Argentinian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 skewer (85g)
• Calories: 280
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 500mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 3g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 26g
• Cholesterol: 120mg

Keywords: Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor. Consider marinating the steak beforehand for added depth. Serve with extra chimichurri on the side for dipping.