Sizzling Mango Garlic Shrimp Skewers: The Ultimate Summer Appetizer with Spicy Cilantro Dip
Discover the perfect blend of sweet, savory, and spicy with these incredible Mango Garlic Shrimp Skewers. Tangy and juicy, they are designed to be the star appetizer for your next summer gathering. The vibrant mango garlic marinade infuses every shrimp with an explosion of fresh, tropical flavor. When perfectly grilled and served alongside a crisp, chilled Cavit Pinot Grigio, you’ll uncover delightful fruity notes that make every bite an unforgettable experience.
Disclosure: This post is proudly sponsored by Cavit! While compensation was provided for this post, all opinions and the delicious recipe are, as always, entirely my own. Thank you for supporting the fantastic brands that help make Cake ‘n Knife possible!
The Unbeatable Charm of Summer Patio Parties
There’s nothing quite like the warmth of the sun, the laughter of friends, and the aroma of delicious food wafting through the air at a perfect patio party. After a long winter, or even a few unexpected days of unseasonal weather, the arrival of genuine summer heat in places like Denver signals only one thing: it’s time to move the festivities outdoors!
When the weather turns gloriously hot, my natural inclination is to embrace the outdoors as much as humanly possible. And let’s be honest, for me, that primarily involves eating and drinking outside. While I admire those who conquer mountains or navigate rivers, my personal summer adventure involves mastering the art of the perfect al fresco dining experience. Forget camping or kayaking; my kind of outdoor activity involves a comfortable chair, good company, and an abundance of tantalizing treats.
Summer patio parties practically beg for appetizers that are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare – especially those that can be sizzled on the grill. Grilling is a game-changer; it keeps your kitchen cool, prevents you from sweating over a hot stove indoors, and offers yet another fantastic excuse to soak up that magical summer air. Plus, there’s something undeniably special about the smoky char that only a grill can impart, elevating simple ingredients to extraordinary flavors.
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The Secret to Flavorful Grilling: Mastering Marinades
Marinades have become my absolute favorite culinary tool to master. It’s truly incredible how such a basic and incredibly easy step can infuse so much deep, complex flavor into whatever you’re cooking. A good marinade doesn’t just add taste; it can also tenderize, moisten, and even create that coveted crispy exterior on grilled foods. For these shrimp skewers, the marinade is the undeniable hero, transforming fresh shrimp into a tropical explosion of flavor.
Our special mango garlic marinade is what sets these shrimp skewers apart. The ripe mango contributes a delightful fruity tartness that brightens the entire dish, while a touch of agave introduces a subtle, natural sweetness. This combination not only provides an exceptional flavor profile but also plays a crucial role in keeping the shrimp plump, juicy, and incredibly tender as they cook on the grill. The garlic, of course, adds that essential aromatic depth that beautifully balances the fruitiness of the mango. Every ingredient works in harmony to create a truly irresistible bite.
The Perfect Pairing: Cavit Pinot Grigio
While these skewers are fantastic on their own, there’s one thing that can elevate the entire experience to a new level: a crisp, chilled glass of Cavit Pinot Grigio. This light and refreshing white wine is a match made in heaven for the vibrant flavors of the mango garlic shrimp.
Cavit Pinot Grigio boasts subtle hints of citrus and a clean finish that harmonizes exquisitely with the juicy mango notes in the shrimp marinade. Served perfectly chilled, it offers a refreshing counterpoint to the summer heat, making it an ideal companion for this particular appetizer. You’ll be genuinely amazed at how the wine enhances certain nuanced flavors in the shrimp, and vice versa, creating a truly balanced and delightful culinary pairing. For those seeking a non-alcoholic option or an alternative cocktail, a zesty lemon mojito is another excellent choice, providing a refreshing burst of mint and citrus that complements the tropical shrimp beautifully.
The Spicy Cilantro Dipping Sauce: A Burst of Freshness
No skewer is complete without the perfect dipping sauce, and our Spicy Cilantro Dipping Sauce is the ideal accompaniment to these Mango Garlic Shrimp Skewers. This vibrant sauce provides a zesty, slightly spicy kick that cuts through the richness of the shrimp and complements the fruity sweetness of the mango. Fresh lime juice adds a bright tang, while minced garlic and cayenne pepper deliver a delightful warmth. The fresh cilantro brings an herbaceous finish, making each dip a burst of invigorating flavor. It’s the finishing touch that brings all the elements of this appetizer together, creating a truly harmonious and unforgettable taste experience. The char from the grill, the sweet and tart mango, and the tangy spicy dipping sauce are precisely what your summer party menu ordered.
Ready to Host the Ultimate Summer Bash?
So, who’s ready to fire up the grill and host an epic summer party? These Mango Garlic Shrimp Skewers are not just an appetizer; they are an invitation to celebrate the season with incredible flavors and effortless elegance. They’re quick enough to whip up for an impromptu gathering and impressive enough for a planned celebration. And if you’re looking to round out your menu with a sweet ending, a refreshing cup of homemade mango mousse is the perfect light and fruity dessert to complete your tropical feast. Get ready to impress your guests and savor every moment of summer!
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Essential Tools for Perfect Grilled Shrimp Skewers
To achieve perfectly grilled Mango Garlic Shrimp Skewers, having the right tools makes all the difference. Here are a few must-haves that will ensure your skewers are a success, whether you prefer easy cleanup or durable, reusable options:
- For effortless cleanup and a rustic touch, I often reach for Fox Run Bamboo Skewers. Remember to soak them in water beforehand to prevent burning on the grill! However, if you’re looking for a more sustainable and durable option that you can use again and again, these BearMoo 17″ Stainless Steel Kabob Skewers are an excellent investment. They conduct heat evenly and are great for larger batches.
- To get that desirable char and cook your shrimp to perfection, you’ll need a reliable heat source. A Weber Original Kettle Premium Charcoal Grill provides that classic smoky flavor and intense heat that’s hard to beat for outdoor grilling. If you’re grilling indoors or simply prefer the convenience, a Lodge Cast Iron Square Grill Pan is a fantastic alternative, allowing you to achieve beautiful grill marks and even cooking right on your stovetop.
Mango Garlic Shrimp Skewers with Spicy Cilantro Dipping Sauce
ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp peeled and deveined, tails left on for presentation and easy handling
- 1 tbsp canola oil or other high-smoke point oil for grilling
- 1/4 cup soy sauce for savory depth
- 1 Tbsp agave or honey, for subtle sweetness and juiciness
- 3 garlic cloves finely diced, for aromatic flavor
- 1/2 tsp black pepper freshly ground is best
- 1 green onion bottom removed and thinly sliced, for mild oniony flavor
- 1 mango ripe, peeled and cut into thick slices, contributing fruity tartness
- 1/4 cup soy sauce the base of our savory dip
- 2 Tbsp agave to balance the spice and tang
- 1 Tbsp fresh lime juice for bright acidity
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper adjust to your preferred level of heat
- 2 garlic cloves minced, for pungent flavor
- 1/2 tsp salt to enhance all the flavors
- 3 Tbsp chopped fresh cilantro for an herbaceous, fresh finish
instructions
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In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, agave (or honey), diced garlic, sliced green onion, and black pepper until well combined. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp along with the thick slices of mango to the bowl. Ensure all shrimp and mango pieces are coated thoroughly in the marinade. Place the bowl in the refrigerator and let it marinate for 15 to 30 minutes. Do not marinate for longer than 30 minutes, as the acidity can start to break down the shrimp’s delicate texture.
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If using bamboo skewers, place them in a shallow baking dish filled with cold water. Allow them to soak for at least 15 minutes. This crucial step prevents the skewers from burning on the grill. Once soaked, pat them dry with a paper towel.
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Carefully remove the marinated shrimp and mango from the bowl, discarding any remaining marinade. Thread the shrimp onto the soaked skewers, alternating with the mango slices. Aim for approximately 4 to 5 shrimp per skewer, ensuring they are evenly spaced for optimal cooking.
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Preheat your outdoor grill or indoor grill pan over high heat. Once hot, lightly brush the grill grates or pan with canola oil to prevent sticking. Carefully place the shrimp skewers on the hot grill. Grill for approximately 2 to 3 minutes on each side. The shrimp are cooked when they turn pink and opaque throughout. Avoid overcooking, as shrimp can become rubbery quickly. Once done, remove them immediately from the grill and transfer to a serving platter. For an extra touch of freshness, sprinkle with additional chopped cilantro.
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While the shrimp are grilling or just before serving, prepare the dipping sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, agave, fresh lime juice, cayenne pepper, minced garlic, and salt until all ingredients are thoroughly combined. Stir in the chopped fresh cilantro. Serve this spicy and tangy dipping sauce alongside your hot Mango Garlic Shrimp Skewers, accompanied by fresh lime wedges for an added burst of citrus.