Grilled Surf and Turf Skewers: A Modern BBQ Classic

The concept of “surf and turf” – combining flavorful meat with delicate seafood – has captivated diners for decades. Originating in North America, this luxurious pairing has become a staple on menus from high-end steakhouses to casual bistros, and its popularity is only growing worldwide. It represents the best of both worlds, offering a rich, savory experience alongside a fresh, oceanic touch.

When the BBQ season rolls around, I’m always on the hunt for recipes that are both exciting and straightforward. I wanted to create a version of surf and turf that was not only delicious but also incredibly easy to master on the grill. This led to extensive testing: experimenting with various steak cuts, finding the perfect cube size, and timing the grill just right to ensure both the steak and shrimp cook evenly and perfectly. No one wants dry steak or rubbery shrimp!

The result? These incredible grilled surf and turf skewers. They promise quick cooking times, a fresh and sophisticated taste, and a texture combination that’s simply divine. The steak is unbelievably tender, the shrimp are plump and juicy, and the grilled lemon adds a bright, aromatic zing that cuts through the richness beautifully. Plus, the unmistakable smoky flavor from the barbecue elevates every bite into a true summer feast.

Mastering Your Surf and Turf Skewers: Foolproof Tips for Perfection

Creating the perfect surf and turf skewers doesn’t have to be complicated. With a few key tips, you can ensure your steak and shrimp cook to perfection every time. These pointers will help you achieve that ideal balance of tenderness and flavor, making your grilling experience smooth and enjoyable.

• Choosing the Right Shrimp: For these skewers, opt for large shrimp or jumbo prawns. The bigger size ensures they cook at a similar rate to the steak and remain wonderfully juicy. Crucially, always remember to devein your shrimp. If you notice a dark line running along the back, carefully make a shallow incision and use the tip of a knife to pull it out. A quick rinse under cold water after deveining helps keep them clean and fresh.
• Selecting and Preparing Steak: Sirloin steak is an excellent choice for its balance of flavor and tenderness, making it ideal for grilling. If you’re looking to truly impress, a high-quality tenderloin will elevate the dish to a gourmet level. The secret to even cooking lies in the cut: aim for uniform 1½ x 1½ cm (approximately 1 x 1 inch) cubes. This ensures that each piece of steak cooks consistently alongside the shrimp, preventing some pieces from being undercooked while others are overdone.
• The Zest of Lemon: The lemon isn’t just a garnish; it’s a vital flavor component. Using organic lemons is highly recommended because you’ll be grilling the wedges with the skin on. The heat from the grill caramelizes the lemon, releasing a wonderfully fresh, slightly sweet, and tangy aroma that infuses into the steak and shrimp, adding a sophisticated brightness.
• Optimal Grilling Oil: Sunflower oil is a fantastic choice for coating your ingredients. Its high smoke point means it won’t burn quickly on the hot grill, and its neutral flavor ensures it won’t overpower the natural tastes of the steak and shrimp. You can also use other neutral oils like grapeseed or canola. Lightly oiling your ingredients prevents sticking and promotes beautiful char marks.
• Preparing Wooden Skewers: If you’re using wooden skewers, don’t skip this crucial step! Soak them in water for at least one hour before grilling. This prevents the wood from charring or catching fire on the hot BBQ, ensuring your skewers hold together and your food cooks perfectly. Metal skewers are also an option and don’t require soaking.
• Essential Hygiene Tips: Food safety is paramount, especially when handling raw meat and seafood. Always keep raw steak and shrimp in separate containers in the fridge to prevent cross-contamination. Thread your ingredients onto the skewers just before you’re ready to grill. This minimizes the time raw food spends at room temperature and helps prevent bacterial growth.
• Grilling Temperature and Technique: Preheat your BBQ to a medium-high heat. You want it hot enough to sear the steak and cook the shrimp quickly without drying them out. Whether you place the skewers directly on the grill grates or use a grill tray (which can make cleanup easier), ensure consistent heat.
• Perfect Doneness: The key to juicy surf and turf skewers is not to overcook them. Grill for 3-4 minutes per side. The shrimp will turn opaque and pink, and the steak should be nicely seared on the outside while remaining tender and slightly pink in the center. Adjust grilling time slightly based on your preferred steak doneness.

Have you tried this absolutely delicious recipe for Surf and Turf BBQ Skewers? I would love to see your culinary creations! Tag #byandreajanssen via Instagram! I genuinely enjoy seeing what you come up with and frequently share the most beautiful photos from my followers. If you loved preparing and tasting this recipe, please consider leaving a rating on the recipe card below. Your valuable feedback not only helps other home cooks discover and enjoy this dish but also provides immense encouragement to me.

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Serving Suggestions for Your BBQ Skewers

These versatile skewers pair beautifully with a variety of side dishes. For a light and fresh meal, consider a vibrant green salad with a lemon vinaigrette or a simple cucumber and tomato salad. If you’re looking for something more substantial, grilled corn on the cob, a classic potato salad, or fluffy couscous with herbs would make excellent companions. For sauces, a light garlic herb butter to brush over the skewers right off the grill, or a fresh chimichurri, can add another layer of flavor. Don’t forget a refreshing beverage like iced tea or a crisp white wine to complete your summer feast!

Variations & Customizations: Get Creative with Your Surf and Turf

One of the best things about these skewers is how easily they can be adapted to your taste. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Marinade Magic: Instead of just oil, whisk together soy sauce, a touch of honey, minced garlic, and ginger for an Asian-inspired twist. Or, go Mediterranean with olive oil, oregano, thyme, and red wine vinegar. Marinate the steak (and shrimp, separately, for no more than 30 minutes) for added depth of flavor.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to your oil mixture for a subtle kick, or a dash of smoked paprika for an extra layer of smoky flavor.
• Add Veggies: Incorporate colorful vegetables onto your skewers. Cherry tomatoes, bell pepper chunks, zucchini slices, or red onion wedges would all grill beautifully alongside the steak and shrimp, adding extra nutrition and visual appeal.
• Herb Infusion: Before grilling, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley, cilantro, or dill over the skewers. The heat will release their aromatic oils, infusing the dish with fresh herbaceous notes.

Frequently Asked Questions About Surf and Turf Skewers

Here are answers to some common questions that might pop up while you’re preparing these delicious skewers:

• Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes, absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely overnight in the refrigerator or under cold running water. Pat them dry thoroughly before oiling and seasoning to ensure a good sear.
• What if I don’t have a BBQ? You can definitely cook these skewers on a grill pan on your stovetop or even broil them in the oven. Adjust cooking times slightly and keep a close eye on them to prevent overcooking.
• How do I prevent the steak from drying out? The key is using uniform cuts and not overcooking. Medium-high heat for a short duration (3-4 minutes per side) will give you a nice crust while keeping the inside juicy. Ensure your steak cubes are about the same size as your shrimp for synchronized cooking.
• Can I prepare the skewers in advance? While it’s best to assemble and grill them just before serving, you can cut the steak, devein the shrimp, and prepare the lemon wedges a few hours ahead of time. Keep them refrigerated in separate, airtight containers until you’re ready to thread and grill. This helps maintain freshness and food safety.
• What’s the best way to clean my grill after? If you use a grill tray, it’s usually easier to clean. For direct grilling, make sure to brush your grates thoroughly while they are still warm to remove any stuck-on bits.