There’s something magical about grilling nectarines. That caramelized, juicy sweetness combined with smoky shrimp creates a mouthwatering combo I can’t get enough of.
These grilled shrimp & nectarine skewers have become a go-to for summer BBQs, casual dinners, and even date nights at home.
They’re easy to make, quick to cook, and so stunning on a plate you’ll want to show them off every time.
Recipe Highlights
These skewers are summer on a stick—sweet nectarines, succulent shrimp, a touch of garlic, and a smoky grill char.
The prep is minimal, and the payoff is huge in both flavor and presentation. Whether you’re firing up a charcoal grill or using a stovetop grill pan, these skewers deliver a delicious balance of savory and fruity goodness.
- Fresh, juicy nectarines pair perfectly with smoky shrimp
. - Fast cook time—on and off the grill in 6 minutes
. - Simple marinade with pantry staples
. - Perfect for entertaining or a weeknight treat
. - Naturally gluten-free and dairy-free
Ingredient Notes
- Shrimp (large, peeled & deveined): Look for 16/20 count shrimp for the ideal size that holds up well on the grill without overcooking.
. - Nectarines: Choose ripe but firm nectarines that hold their shape when grilled. The natural sugars caramelize beautifully.
. - Olive Oil: Helps the marinade coat the shrimp and nectarines while adding a subtle richness.
. - Garlic: Minced fresh garlic brings a savory bite that balances the sweet fruit.
. - Honey: Adds a touch of sticky-sweet glaze to enhance the caramelization on the grill.
. - Smoked Paprika: Brings a warm, smoky depth to the skewers.
. - Salt & Black Pepper: Essential for flavoring both the shrimp and nectarines.
. - Fresh Parsley (optional): For garnish and a pop of green at serving time.
How to Make My Grilled Shrimp & Nectarine Skewers
- Prep the Marinade
In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, honey, garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
. - Marinate the Shrimp
Add the shrimp to the bowl, toss to coat, and let it marinate in the fridge for 20 minutes.
. - Prep the Nectarines
Slice nectarines into thick wedges. Pat them dry to help them grill better.
. - Assemble the Skewers
Alternate shrimp and nectarine slices on metal or soaked wooden skewers. Thread the shrimp in a “C” shape so they stay on securely.
. - Grill Time
Heat the grill or grill pan to medium-high. Lightly oil the grates. Grill skewers for 2–3 minutes per side, or until shrimp are opaque and slightly charred.
. - Serve & Garnish
Plate the skewers, drizzle with any remaining marinade, and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Preparation and Marinade
To begin, preparing the marinade is essential for infusing the shrimp with flavor. Combine olive oil, honey, smoked paprika, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper in a bowl.
This mixture creates a rich, savory base that enhances the natural sweetness of the shrimp and nectarines.
Once the marinade is ready, add the large shrimp and toss them to ensure they are well-coated.
Allowing the shrimp to marinate for about 15 minutes will intensify the flavors, making each bite a delicious experience.
Assembling the Skewers
After marinating, it’s time to assemble the skewers. Using wooden skewers that have been soaked in water, alternate threading the marinated shrimp and the thick wedges of nectarines.
This not only creates a beautiful presentation but also allows the flavors to meld together during grilling.
Be sure to leave a little space between each piece on the skewer to ensure even cooking and a nice char on the grill.
Grilling to Perfection
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, which is ideal for achieving that perfect char on the skewers.
Once heated, place the assembled skewers on the grill and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side. The shrimp will turn opaque and firm when fully cooked.
Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking, as shrimp can become tough if left on the grill for too long.
The goal is to achieve a beautiful char while maintaining the juiciness of the shrimp and nectarines.
Serving Suggestions
Once grilled to perfection, remove the skewers from the grill and garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Serving these skewers immediately will ensure that they are enjoyed at their best.
Consider pairing them with a light dipping sauce or a refreshing salad to complement the flavors.
The combination of savory shrimp and sweet nectarines makes for a delightful dish that embodies the warmth of a summer evening.
These skewers shine on their own, but they pair beautifully with:
- Coconut rice or jasmine rice
. - Grilled corn or elote-style corn salad
. - Mixed greens with a citrus vinaigrette
. - Crusty bread and herbed olive oil dip
. - A chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water with lime
Nutrition and Enjoyment
These grilled shrimp and nectarine skewers are not only delicious but also nutritious. Each serving contains approximately 210 calories, with a good balance of protein and healthy fats.
This makes them a great option for those looking to enjoy a flavorful meal without compromising on health.
Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or simply enjoying a quiet evening at home, these skewers are sure to be a hit.
Their vibrant appearance and delightful taste will leave everyone wanting more.
Tips for the Best Grilled Shrimp & Nectarine Skewers
Make sure your grill is hot before placing the skewers—this ensures a fast sear without overcooking the shrimp.
Always oil the grill grates to prevent sticking. Don’t over-marinate the shrimp; 15–30 minutes is plenty, or the acid may start to break down the texture.
Use firm nectarines that hold their shape; overly ripe ones can turn mushy on the grill.
For the best flavor, use fresh garlic and a drizzle of honey at the end for an extra caramelized finish.
Grilled Shrimp and Nectarine Skewers Recipe
Course: MainCuisine: American / Summer GrillingDifficulty: Easy2
skewers20
minutes6
minutes210
kcalThese skewers feature large shrimp and nectarines, perfectly grilled and garnished with fresh chopped parsley. The recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish and serves 4 people.
Ingredients
1 pound large shrimp (16/20 count), peeled and deveined
2 nectarines, pitted and cut into thick wedges
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon honey
2 teaspoons smoked paprika
2 cloves garlic, minced
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
Directions
- Make the Marinade:
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, honey, smoked paprika, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate the Shrimp:
- Toss the shrimp in the marinade and refrigerate for 20 minutes. While the shrimp is marinating, slice nectarines into wedges.
- Assemble the Skewers:
- Thread alternating pieces of marinated shrimp and fresh nectarine wedges onto skewers.
- Heat the Grill:
- Preheat grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Brush grates with oil to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Skewers:
- Place skewers on the grill. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side, turning once, until shrimp are opaque and nectarines show char marks.
- Serve & Garnish:
- Remove from the grill, drizzle with leftover marinade or olive oil, and garnish with parsley.
Notes
- This recipe works well with peaches, too!
- You can add red onion or bell pepper chunks for more variety.
- To make it spicier, add a pinch of cayenne to the marinade.
- For a bigger crowd, double the recipe and keep skewers warm in a 200°F oven until ready to serve.
Storage and Warming Leftovers
Store any leftover shrimp and nectarines separately in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes, just until warmed through. Do not microwave or overheat, as shrimp can become rubbery.
These also taste great cold in salads the next day!
