If you’re looking to impress your guests or treat yourself to a colorful, flavor-packed meal, then Grilled Surf & Turf Skewers with Chimichurri is the perfect dish for you. This recipe beautifully blends land and sea, combining juicy grilled steak and succulent shrimp on a single skewer, complemented by a vibrant green chimichurri sauce that adds a zesty punch to every bite.
These skewers are not only visually stunning but also incredibly delicious. Whether you’re preparing for a weekend cookout, a summer picnic, or just want to enjoy something extraordinary at home, this dish brings both simplicity and sophistication to the table. Let’s dive deep into what makes this recipe a standout and why it deserves a permanent spot in your grilling rotation.
Why You’ll Love These Grilled Surf & Turf Skewers
The combination of steak and shrimp, grilled alongside colorful vegetables, offers a satisfying contrast of flavors and textures. The beef provides rich, meaty depth while the shrimp delivers a light, slightly sweet flavor that soaks up the marinade and char beautifully on the grill.
But the real magic comes from the chimichurri sauce. Made with fresh parsley, garlic, olive oil, vinegar, and red pepper flakes, this Argentinean condiment is zesty, herby, and just the right amount of spicy. It elevates the skewers to gourmet status with minimal effort.
Here’s everything you need to know to prepare, serve, and enjoy this incredible meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make these skewers unforgettable, quality ingredients are key. Choose fresh vegetables, top-quality shrimp, and tender steak cuts like sirloin, ribeye, or filet mignon.
For the Skewers:
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1 lb beef steak, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
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1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
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1 red bell pepper, cut into 1.5-inch pieces
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1 yellow bell pepper, cut into 1.5-inch pieces
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1 red onion, quartered
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1 zucchini, sliced into thick half-moons
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
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Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes)
For the Chimichurri:
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1 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
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½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
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½ teaspoon dried oregano
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½ cup extra virgin olive oil
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chimichurri
In a bowl, combine parsley, garlic, vinegar, red pepper flakes, and oregano. Slowly whisk in the olive oil until well blended. Season with salt and pepper. Let it sit for at least 20 minutes for the flavors to meld.
Tip: You can make this ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 3 days.
2. Marinate the Steak and Shrimp
In a large bowl, drizzle the olive oil over the steak and shrimp. Season with salt and pepper. If desired, add a tablespoon of chimichurri for added flavor. Let it marinate while you prep the vegetables.
3. Assemble the Skewers
Thread the shrimp, steak, and vegetables onto the skewers, alternating items for a colorful presentation. Don’t overcrowd each skewer so everything cooks evenly.
4. Grill the Skewers
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Grill the skewers for 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the shrimp are opaque and the steak reaches your preferred doneness. Vegetables should be slightly charred and tender.
5. Serve
Place the skewers on a modern white platter or serve them straight from the grill. Generously spoon the chimichurri over the top or serve it on the side for dipping.
Tips for the Best Surf & Turf Skewers
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Don’t overcook the shrimp. They cook quickly and can become rubbery if left too long on the grill.
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Use similar-sized chunks of steak and vegetables to ensure even cooking.
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Rest the steak for a few minutes before serving to lock in the juices.
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Double the chimichurri to use as a marinade or to enjoy with bread or grilled potatoes.
Nutritional Value (Per Serving)
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Calories: 420
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Protein: 35g
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Fat: 25g
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Carbohydrates: 8g
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Fiber: 2g
Values may vary depending on portion size and ingredients used.
When to Serve Grilled Surf & Turf Skewers
This recipe is perfect for:
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Backyard barbecues
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Date nights
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Family dinners
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Summer cookouts
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Holiday gatherings
It’s quick enough for a weeknight but fancy enough to wow your guests. Serve it with grilled corn, garlic rice, or a light salad for a full, satisfying meal.
How to Store and Reheat
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Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
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Reheat on a grill pan or in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. Avoid microwaving shrimp for too long to prevent rubbery texture.
Optional Add-Ons and Variations
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Add pineapple chunks for sweetness.
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Use chicken instead of steak for a lighter option.
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Replace chimichurri with garlic butter or sriracha mayo for a twist.
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Make it low-carb by skipping the starchy sides.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, just thaw them completely and pat dry before marinating or grilling.
2. What’s the best steak cut for skewers?
Sirloin, ribeye, and filet mignon are excellent because they stay tender and juicy when grilled.
3. Can I make this recipe in the oven?
Absolutely. Use the broiler setting and cook the skewers on a foil-lined baking sheet for 10–12 minutes, turning once.
4. Is chimichurri spicy?
Not necessarily. It can be mildly spicy depending on how much red pepper flakes you use.
5. How do I prevent wooden skewers from burning?
Soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before threading the ingredients.
6. Can I prepare the skewers ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble and refrigerate the skewers for up to 8 hours before grilling.
7. What other veggies can I use?
Mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, and eggplant work great on skewers.
8. How do I know when the shrimp are done?
Shrimp turn pink and curl into a “C” shape when fully cooked.
9. Can I freeze grilled skewers?
It’s best to eat them fresh, but you can freeze them for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat gently.
10. Is chimichurri served hot or cold?
It is typically served at room temperature or slightly chilled.
11. How can I make the chimichurri smoother?
Blend it in a food processor if you prefer a more uniform texture.
12. Where can I find more recipes like this?
Follow us on Pinterest for more colorful, mouth-watering recipes like this. Don’t forget to pin and save your favorites!
Conclusion
Grilled Surf & Turf Skewers with Chimichurri bring together the best of land and sea in one simple, beautiful dish. Packed with bold flavors, fresh herbs, and colorful veggies, this recipe is sure to be a hit at your next meal. The vibrant chimichurri sauce ties everything together, making it an unforgettable culinary experience.
If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to follow us on Pinterest for more delicious and easy-to-make ideas. Make sure to save, pin, and share this recipe with your friends and family. Let your grill shine this season with food that looks as good as it tastes!