Surf and Turf Skewers

Name: Surf and Turf Skewers
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 skewers
Ingredients: 1 pound beef sirloin, cut into 1-inch cubes; 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Warm Bowl Creations

I love making Surf and Turf Skewers for gatherings because they combine the best of both worlds—grilled meats and seafood. The contrast of juicy beef and tender shrimp creates a delightful flavor experience that always impresses guests. Plus, these skewers are easy to assemble and cook quickly, making them a perfect choice for a busy evening or a special occasion. The best part? You can customize the marinade to suit your taste, ensuring a unique dish every time we make it!

Created by

Tom

Last updated on 2026-01-05T19:10:28.500Z

When I first experimented with Surf and Turf Skewers, I wanted to find a way to enjoy both beef and seafood in one dish. By marinating the meat and shrimp together, I discovered that they truly complement each other, enhancing the overall flavor profile. I often use a homemade garlic and herb marinade, which not only infuses the proteins but also caramelizes beautifully on the grill.

One detail I find crucial is to soak the skewers in water for about 30 minutes before grilling. This prevents them from burning and ensures that my delicious creations stay intact while cooking. This method has become a staple in my grilling adventures, and my guests can’t get enough of them!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Juicy beef paired with succulent shrimp for the ultimate flavor fusion
Customizable marinade to match your personal taste
Perfect for barbecues, parties, or a cozy dinner at home

      

Mastering the Marinade

The marinade plays a crucial role in infusing the beef and shrimp with flavor, enhancing the overall taste of your skewers. Olive oil helps to tenderize the meat while contributing a richness that balances the seafood's lightness. Make sure to whisk the marinade well until it’s fully combined, ensuring each piece of meat is coated evenly for maximum flavor absorption.

Don't be afraid to experiment with the marinade components! For a kick of spice, add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes. Alternatively, replace the oregano with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to bring a different aromatic note to your dish. Allowing the beef and shrimp to marinate for longer, up to two hours, intensifies the flavors even more but make sure not to exceed four hours as the shrimp can become overly soft.

Skewering Technique

When threading your beef and shrimp onto the skewers, ensure that you leave a small space between each piece. This allows hot air to circulate while grilling, promoting even cooking and a delightful char. For an extra layer of flavor, you can alternate with cherry tomatoes or bell peppers, which not only add color but also a juicy texture.

It's essential to soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before using them on the grill. This prevents them from burning during the grilling process. If you’re using metal skewers, they conduct heat differently, so keep an eye on the cooking time as the skewers may heat up faster.

Serving Suggestions

For an impressive presentation, serve the grilled skewers over a bed of lightly dressed arugula or mixed greens. This adds an elegant touch and provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the beef and shrimp. You can also accompany the skewers with a selection of dipping sauces, such as a tangy garlic aioli or a zesty chimichurri for a vibrant flavor boost.

If you have leftovers, feel free to repurpose the skewers in a delicious salad or a wrap the next day. Just slice the beef and shrimp into smaller pieces and toss them with your choice of salad ingredients. Refrigerate the cooked skewers in an airtight container for up to three days, but for best results, enjoy them fresh off the grill!

Ingredients

Gather the following items to prepare these delicious skewers:

For the skewers:

1 pound beef sirloin, cut into 1-inch cubes
1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the skewers for added flavor and color!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Surf and Turf Skewers:

Prepare the Marinade

In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.

Marinate the Ingredients

Add the beef cubes and shrimp to the marinade. Toss to coat evenly, then cover and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes.

Assemble the Skewers

Thread the marinated beef and shrimp onto soaked skewers, alternating as desired.

Grill the Skewers

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until the beef is cooked to your liking and the shrimp is opaque.

Serve and Enjoy

Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce!

These skewers pair wonderfully with a fresh salad or grilled vegetables.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to your marinade.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common challenge with grilling skewers is ensuring that both the beef and shrimp cook evenly. To solve this, aim for shrimp that are similar in size to the beef cubes, as this helps synchronize cooking times. Additionally, consider grilling over direct heat only to get a nice sear and then move them to indirect heat to finish cooking without burning.

If you find that your beef is becoming tough, it may be due to overcooking. The perfect internal temperature for medium-rare beef is 130-135°F. Use a meat thermometer to check doneness without having to cut into the meat, ensuring that it remains juicy and flavorful.

Make-Ahead Options

To streamline your cooking process, you can prepare the marinade the night before and marinate the beef and shrimp for a few hours in the refrigerator. This allows the proteins to absorb all the flavors, making for a more dynamic dish. Just remember to let the proteins come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before grilling, as this helps with even cooking.

Keep in mind that while shrimp can be marinated, they tend to soak up flavors quickly. Therefore, marinating for about 15 to 30 minutes is often sufficient. If you're looking to prepare the skewers in advance, assemble them and then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. They can be stored in the fridge for up to a day, giving you a head start for your gathering.

Variations to Try

If you're feeling adventurous, try swapping out the shrimp for scallops for a different seafood delight. Scallops grill beautifully and complement the beef's savory flavor, offering a sweet contrast. Just be cautious with the cooking time, as scallops typically require less time than shrimp on the grill.

For a twist on the flavor profile, experiment with different marinades such as a teriyaki or honey garlic sauce. Just be aware that sweet marinades can caramelize on the grill, so watch closely to prevent burning. These variations add an exciting touch to your surf and turf skewers, showcasing the versatility of this dish!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of meat?

Absolutely! Chicken, pork, or even tofu can be used in place of beef.

→ How long can I marinate the skewers?

You can marinate the skewers for up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for more flavor.

→ What dipping sauces pair well with these skewers?

A garlic aioli or a spicy cocktail sauce are both excellent choices.

→ Can I make these skewers in the oven?

Yes, you can bake them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes instead of grilling.