As the sun sets and the grill begins to sizzle, there’s nothing quite like the delightful scent of Cajun spices dancing in the air. I discovered this Grilled Cajun Butter Garlic Shrimp skewer recipe on a lazy summer afternoon, determined to create something memorable without spending hours in the kitchen. Just 20 minutes of prep and grilling time, and you’ll have a vibrant dish that bursts with flavor, thanks to the rich garlic butter blended with smoky Cajun seasoning.
What makes this recipe a standout? It’s not just an appetizer; it transitions seamlessly into a light meal, especially with the zesty cilantro lime avocado dipping sauce that perfectly complements the shrimp. Whether you’re entertaining friends or simply treating yourself, these skewers deliver an irresistible combination of ease and taste. So fire up the grill and let’s bring some vibrant summer flavors to your table!
Why You’ll Love Cajun Butter Garlic Grilled Shrimp
Speedy Preparation: This dish comes together in just 20 minutes, perfect for busy evenings or spontaneous summer gatherings.
Bold Flavors: The Cajun spice blend infuses the shrimp with smoky, robust flavor that will excite your taste buds.
Creamy Dip: The cilantro lime avocado sauce adds a zesty, creamy complement that enhances every bite of shrimp.
Versatile Dish: Not just a starter, these skewers can easily be served as a light meal alongside a fresh salad or grilled veggies.
Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for impressing guests, this recipe is sure to have everyone coming back for seconds! Get ready to enjoy a taste of summer that everyone will love.
Cajun Butter Garlic Shrimp Ingredients
For the Shrimp
• Shrimp – Fresh or frozen, go for shelled and deveined for quick cooking and easy eating.
• Cajun Seasoning – Adds a spicy, vibrant kick; you can use both homemade or store-bought blends for convenience.
• Lemon Juice – Brightens the dish; lime juice serves as a great substitute if needed.
For the Garlic Butter
• Butter – Rich and indulgent, use unsalted for better control over saltiness; olive oil can lighten the dish.
• Garlic – Fresh cloves bring out wonderful aromas; garlic powder can work in a hurry, but nothing beats fresh!
For the Dipping Sauce
• Avocado – Creamy and smooth, opt for ripe avocados to enhance the richness of the sauce.
• Cilantro – Freshness is key; parsley can replace it for a milder flavor if you’re not a cilantro fan.
• Lime Juice – Adds acidity to the avocado dip; lemon juice can also be used in a pinch.
• Salt – Essential for flavor enhancement; adjust to your personal taste preference.
These Cajun Butter Garlic Shrimp skewers, complemented by the zesty avocado dip, promise to be the summer appetizer you can’t resist!
How to Make Cajun Butter Garlic Grilled Shrimp
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Melt the Garlic Butter: In a medium pan over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons of butter. Add 3 cloves of minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Remove from heat and set aside.
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Season the Shrimp: In a mixing bowl, toss 1 pound of shelled and deveined shrimp with 2 tablespoons of Cajun seasoning, coating all the shrimp evenly for full flavor.
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Skewer and Grill: Thread the seasoned shrimp onto skewers. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque.
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Brush with Garlic Butter: Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and generously brush the shrimp with the garlic butter mixture along with a splash of lemon juice for extra brightness.
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Prepare the Dipping Sauce: In a separate bowl, mash 1 ripe avocado and combine it with 2 tablespoons of chopped cilantro, the juice of 1 lime, and a pinch of salt. Mix until smooth; blend for an ultra-creamy texture if desired.
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Serve and Enjoy: Serve the hot shrimp skewers with the cilantro lime avocado dipping sauce on the side for dipping. Let the flavor party begin!
Optional: Garnish with extra cilantro for a fresh pop of color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Cajun Butter Garlic Grilled Shrimp
Fridge: Store leftover shrimp in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Make sure to let them cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked shrimp without the sauce in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to eat, thaw shrimp overnight in the fridge and reheat gently in a pan over low heat until warmed through, brushing with garlic butter for extra flavor.
Dipping Sauce Storage: Keep the cilantro lime avocado dipping sauce in an airtight container for up to 2 days. To maintain its bright color, add a splash of lime juice before sealing.
Make Ahead Options
These Cajun Butter Garlic Grilled Shrimp skewers are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can season the shrimp and refrigerate them up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the spices to meld beautifully. Additionally, the creamy cilantro lime avocado dipping sauce can be prepared and stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days, but remember to add a bit of lime juice to prevent browning. When it’s time to cook, simply skewer the shrimp and grill them for 2-3 minutes per side until they are pink and opaque. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll have a quick, scrumptious dish ready for any busy weeknight!
Expert Tips for Cajun Butter Garlic Grilled Shrimp
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Don’t Overcook: Shrimp can become rubbery if overcooked. They’re perfectly done when they’re pink and opaque.
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Soak Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning during the cooking process.
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Mix Seasoning Well: Ensure your shrimp are evenly coated with Cajun seasoning. This guarantees every bite is packed with flavor.
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Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use fresh garlic and ripe avocados for the best flavor and creaminess in your dipping sauce.
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Customize Your Dip: Feel free to add extra ingredients like diced tomatoes or finely sliced jalapeños to the cilantro lime avocado sauce for a personal twist.
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Use High Heat: Grilling at medium-high heat helps achieve that delightful char while keeping the shrimp juicy, enhancing the overall taste of the Cajun butter garlic grilled shrimp.
What to Serve with Cajun Butter Garlic Grilled Shrimp?
Elevate your meal with delightful accompaniments that complement the smoky, spicy flavors of the shrimp, transforming your serving into a memorable feast.
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Crispy Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky goodness of crispy bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover cilantro lime avocado sauce. It’s a comforting staple that feels like a warm hug.
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Grilled Corn on the Cob: The sweetness of fresh corn pairs beautifully with Cajun spices, adding a pop of color and a satisfying crunch to your plate.
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Zesty Coleslaw: A tangy, crunchy coleslaw adds freshness and texture, balancing the richness of the shrimp. It’s a summer staple that sings with vibrant flavors.
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Quinoa Salad: Light and nutritious, a quinoa salad tossed with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a squeeze of lemon offers a refreshing counterpoint to the rich shrimp.
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Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized seasonal veggies bring a delightful earthy, sweet flavor. The charred bits complement the skewers, creating a harmonious experience.
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Chilled White Wine: A light, crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a refreshing Chardonnay enhances the flavors of the shrimp while keeping your palate refreshed.
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Margaritas: A zesty margarita provides a citrusy punch that uplifts the meal. It’s a fun and festive beverage that captures the essence of summer gatherings.
Whichever combination you choose, these pairings will enhance the vibrant flavors of your Cajun Butter Garlic Grilled Shrimp, creating a dining experience everyone will cherish.
Variations & Substitutions for Cajun Butter Garlic Shrimp
Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own with these tasty twists and swaps!
- Chili-Lime: Add a tablespoon of chili powder to the shrimp seasoning for a zesty kick. The heat brings an exciting depth to every bite.
- Garlic-Free: Use shallots instead of garlic in the butter for a milder flavor. This lets the Cajun spices shine while offering a unique twist.
- Seafood Swap: Replace shrimp with scallops or firm fish like salmon for a different seafood experience. Adjust grilling time accordingly for best results.
- Veggie Delight: Try using vegetable skewers with zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian version. Just brush them with the same garlic butter!
- Sweet Heat: Incorporate a bit of honey into the garlic butter for a sweet and spicy combination that enhances the Cajun flavors beautifully.
- Low-FODMAP: Use garlic-infused oil instead of fresh garlic for a lower-FODMAP option without losing that aromatic essence.
- Extra Creamy: Blend the avocado sauce with a small amount of Greek yogurt for added creaminess and protein. This enhances the texture while keeping it fresh.
- Herb Boost: Experiment with fresh basil or dill in the avocado dip for a refreshing take that complements the Cajun shrimp perfectly.
Each variation opens the door to new flavor adventures, so don’t hesitate to explore!
Cajun Butter Garlic Grilled Shrimp with Cilantro Lime Avocado Sauce Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select fresh shrimp?
Absolutely! When choosing shrimp, look for ones that are translucent with a slight sheen and a mild ocean scent. Fresh shrimp should not have any dark spots or strong odors. If you’re buying frozen, opt for those that are individually quick frozen (IQF) for better quality.
How long can I store leftover Cajun butter garlic grilled shrimp?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Be sure to cool the shrimp completely before sealing the container to avoid any condensation, which can lead to sogginess.
Can I freeze the leftover shrimp?
Certainly! To freeze your Cajun butter garlic grilled shrimp, place the cooked shrimp on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze them until solid. Then, transfer them to a zip-top freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.
How do I avoid overcooking shrimp on the grill?
Very good question! Keep an eye on your shrimp while grilling; they cook quickly, typically in about 2-3 minutes per side. They are done when they turn pink and opaque. If you’re using wooden skewers, remember to soak them in water for 30 minutes prior to grilling to prevent burning.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Definitely! If you’re preparing this dish for someone with allergies, take care with the ingredients. This shrimp recipe is naturally gluten-free and low-carb, but always check the labels of your Cajun seasoning mix. For those who are allergic to shellfish, consider substituting shrimp with chicken or firm tofu, seasoned the same way.
How can I store the cilantro lime avocado dipping sauce?
To keep your dipping sauce fresh, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Before sealing, add a splash of lime juice to maintain its vibrant color and prevent browning. Enjoy it with your shrimp for a burst of flavor!
Cajun Butter Garlic Grilled Shrimp with Zesty Avocado Dip
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium pan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Remove from heat and set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, toss shrimp with Cajun seasoning, coating evenly.
- Thread shrimp onto skewers. Preheat grill to medium-high heat and grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque.
- Remove skewers from grill and brush with garlic butter mixture and lemon juice.
- In a bowl, mash avocado and combine with chopped cilantro, lime juice, and salt. Mix until smooth.
- Serve shrimp skewers with avocado dipping sauce on the side.
