If you’re looking for a delicious and easy way to enjoy shrimp this summer, then Bang Bang Shrimp Skewers are the perfect dish. These flavorful skewers incorporate a delightful blend of spices and the signature creamy, spicy sauce that Bang Bang shrimp are known for, making them an excellent choice for outdoor cooking or as a party snack. The combination of the succulent shrimp and the zesty sauce creates a mouthwatering experience that is both satisfying and memorable. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply enjoying a family dinner, these skewers are sure to impress your guests with their vibrant flavors and appealing presentation.

Ingredients

• Shrimp Marinade:
  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (choose shrimp that are firm and have a mild scent for the best quality; wild-caught shrimp often have superior taste)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin olive oil will add a rich flavor and depth to the marinade)
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low-sodium soy sauce can be used for a healthier option while still providing essential umami)
  • 1 tablespoon honey (local honey can enhance the flavor profile and add a touch of sweetness)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder (fresh minced garlic can be used if preferred for a more intense garlic flavor)
  • 1 teaspoon ginger powder (freshly grated ginger adds a brighter flavor and aroma to the dish)
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust based on spice preference; you can also use fresh chili or a chili paste for a different heat level)
• Bang Bang Sauce:
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise (use homemade mayonnaise for a fresher taste; it can also be made with avocado oil for a healthier alternative)
  • 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce (choose a brand with a balanced sweetness that suits your taste)
  • 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust for heat; try incorporating chili garlic sauce for a unique twist)
  • 1 teaspoon lime juice (freshly squeezed lime juice is ideal for brightness and zest)
• For Assembly:
  • Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning during grilling)
  • Fresh cilantro or green onions for garnish (optional, but they add a fresh touch and vibrant color to the final dish)

Steps / Instructions

1. Prepare the Shrimp: In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, soy sauce, honey, garlic powder, ginger powder, and red pepper flakes. Whisk together until well combined to create a marinating mixture that enhances the shrimp’s flavor. This marinade acts as both a seasoning and a tenderizer, ensuring your shrimp will be juicy and flavorful.
2. Marinate the Shrimp: Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the marinade, ensuring each shrimp is well-coated. Cover and let marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor. The longer you marinate, the more the shrimp absorb the flavor; just be cautious not to exceed two hours, as the acid in the marinade can start to cook the shrimp.
3. Make the Bang Bang Sauce: In another bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and lime juice. Adjust the heat by adding more sriracha if desired for a spicier kick. Set aside to let the flavors meld while you prepare the shrimp, ensuring all ingredients are well blended for a creamy consistency.
4. Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F to 450°F). If using an outdoor grill, ensure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect grill marks on your skewers; a properly heated grill will sear the shrimp quickly, sealing in juices and flavor.
5. Assemble the Skewers: Thread the marinated shrimp onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each shrimp for even cooking. This ensures that each piece cooks thoroughly and gets that delicious grilled flavor. Consider alternating shrimp with slices of bell pepper or onion for added color and taste.
6. Grill the Shrimp: Place the skewers on the preheated grill. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, and have nice grill marks. Be careful not to overcook; shrimp cook quickly! If they curl up too much or become rubbery, they’re likely overdone. Aim for a firm texture; they should be tender yet slightly springy when done properly.
7. Serve: Remove the skewers from the grill and drizzle with the Bang Bang sauce. Garnish with fresh cilantro or chopped green onions if desired for an extra flavor boost and bright presentation. This final touch elevates the dish visually and adds a fresh herbaceous note that balances the richness of the sauce.

Tips & Tricks

• Storage: Leftover shrimp skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the grill to avoid drying them out, ensuring they retain their moisture and flavor.
• Make-Ahead: You can marinate the shrimp a day in advance, which will enhance the flavor even more. Just keep them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to grill, allowing the spices to penetrate the shrimp deeply for maximum flavor enhancement.
• Avoid Common Mistakes: Ensure your shrimp are completely thawed and patted dry before marinating. This helps the marinade adhere better and prevents excess moisture from steaming the shrimp on the grill, which can lead to a less-than-desirable texture and flavor.
• Expert Techniques: Use a grill basket for smaller shrimp pieces if you prefer. This will prevent any shrimp from falling through the grates, ensuring you enjoy every bit of your delicious Bang Bang Shrimp Skewers. Additionally, try using a meat thermometer to check for doneness; shrimp should reach an internal temperature of 120°F.

Variations

To customize your Bang Bang Shrimp Skewers, consider the following ideas: You can learn more about this topic.

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute shrimp with firm tofu or a variety of vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms for a plant-based version that still packs a flavor punch. Grilled eggplant or pineapple can also add a unique sweetness.
• Gluten-Free: Ensure your soy sauce is gluten-free or use tamari as an alternative, making this dish accessible to those with gluten sensitivities while maintaining the same great flavor profile.
• Flavor Variations: Experiment with other seasonings such as paprika, cayenne, or smoked salt to create different flavor profiles that suit your palate. Adding a splash of coconut milk or swapping out the lime juice for pineapple juice can also infuse a tropical twist.

Serving Suggestions

These skewers are perfect as a quick dinner idea or as easy shrimp appetizers for parties. Pair them with a refreshing salad, like Blackberry Basil Grilled Chicken Salad, or serve them alongside grilled vegetables or fluffy rice. A chilled white wine or a light beer complements the spices beautifully, enhancing the overall dining experience. Check out our related guide for more tips and inspiration on serving these flavorful skewers, ensuring your guests enjoy a remarkable meal.

Bang Bang Shrimp Skewers

Recipe by Chef

★★★★★ 5 from 1 vote

These flavorful skewers incorporate a delightful blend of spices and the signature creamy, spicy sauce that Bang Bang shrimp are known for, making them an excellent choice for outdoor cooking or as a party snack.

Course

Dinner

Cuisine

American

Difficulty

Easy

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🍽️

Servings

4

⏱️

Prep Time

30 min

🍳

Cook Time

6 min

🔥

Calories

—

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Ingredients

US Metric

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon ginger powder
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
• 1 tablespoon sriracha
• 1 teaspoon lime juice
• Wooden or metal skewers
• Fresh cilantro or green onions for garnish

Directions

1.

In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, soy sauce, honey, garlic powder, ginger powder, and red pepper flakes. Whisk together until well combined.

2.

Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the marinade, ensuring each shrimp is well-coated. Cover and let marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours.

3.

In another bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and lime juice. Adjust the heat as desired.

4.

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F to 450°F).

5.

Thread the marinated shrimp onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each shrimp.

6.

Place the skewers on the preheated grill. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.

7.

Remove the skewers from the grill and drizzle with the Bang Bang sauce. Garnish with fresh cilantro or chopped green onions.