Grilled Peach-Dijon Shrimp
As summer begins to wind down, there's still an opportunity to savor the season's bounty, and what better way to do so than with this exquisite Grilled Peach-Dijon Shrimp recipe? Fresh, juicy peaches are currently at their peak, making this the ideal dish to celebrate the lingering warmth of late summer evenings. The smoky grill aroma, combined with the sweet and tangy Peach-Dijon marinade, is a perfect match. Let's make the most of these remaining summer days by preparing this unforgettable dish that's bursting with flavor!
Imagine succulent shrimp, kissed by the flames, and bathed in a marinade that harmoniously blends the natural sweetness of ripe peaches with the zesty allure of Dijon mustard. This Grilled Peach-Dijon Shrimp recipe is versatile, suitable for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion when you wish to dazzle your guests with an explosion of flavors. Let's dive into creating this delectable fusion of flavors and textures.
Ingredients:
For the Peach-Dijon Marinade:
- 1 medium, ripe peach, peeled and diced (1 cup)
- 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (1 lemon)
- 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest (1 lemon)
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Shrimp:
- 1 pound extra jumbo or colossal shrimp, peeled and deveined (we prefer to leave the tails intact)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
- Lemon wedges
Creating the marinade
- Start by preparing the peaches. Peel and dice, removing the pits.
- In a blender or food processor, combine the diced peaches, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, honey or maple syrup, olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, and thyme leaves.
- Blend the ingredients until you have a smooth and well-mixed marinade. If the mixture is too thick, you can add a little more olive oil or a splash of water to reach your desired consistency.
- Taste the marinade and season with salt and pepper according to your preference. The Dijon mustard will already provide some saltiness, so be sure to taste before adding any salt.
- Place your peeled and deveined shrimp in a bowl or a resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over them. Make sure the shrimp are well coated.
- Seal the bag or cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the shrimp to marinate. You can also marinate them for up to 2 hours if you have the time.
Prepare the Shrimp for Grilling
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Clean and oil the grates as necessary.
- Thread the marinated shrimp onto skewers for easier grilling, ensuring they are evenly spaced. If using wooden skewers, be sure to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
Grill the Shrimp
- Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and develop grill marks. The cooking time may vary based on the size of the shrimp, so be attentive. Baste with any extra marinade while grilling for extra flavor.
- Once the shrimp are cooked through, remove them from the grill.
Garnish and Serve
- Remove the grilled shrimp from the skewers and place them in a serving dish.
- Sprinkle fresh parsley or cilantro over the Grilled Peach-Dijon Shrimp for a burst of color and freshness.
- Serve the dish hot with lemon wedges on the side for an extra zesty touch.
Suggested Side Dishes
Grilled Vegetables: Grilled asparagus, bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms brushed with olive oil, garlic, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper make for a fantastic and healthy side. The smokiness from the grill will complement the shrimp perfectly.
Rice Pilaf: Serve a fragrant rice pilaf with toasted slivered almonds, sautéed onions, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. The nutty flavors of the pilaf complement the sweetness of the shrimp.
Green Salad: A light and crisp green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a balsamic vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the shrimp.
Final Thoughts
From the delicate balance of ingredients to the sizzle of shrimp meeting the grill's embrace, these Grilled Peach-Dijon Shrimp offer a flavorful explosion that will enhance your grilling skills. Whether you're an experienced grill-master or just discovering the joys of outdoor cooking, this recipe is certain to elevate your summer gatherings to unforgettable heights.
The succulent shrimp, kissed by the grill and paired with the sweet and tangy peach-Dijon sauce, is a culinary triumph that will have your guests asking for seconds. Whether you're hosting a barbecue or savoring a special meal, this dish is sure to impress. Enjoy the smoky goodness and unforgettable flavors.
We encourage you to try this Grilled Peach-Dijon Shrimp recipe and kindly request that you share your thoughts with us. Your feedback is invaluable for us to develop future recipes. If you have a favorite grilled shrimp recipe, we'd love to hear about it. Feel free to contact The Small Town Chef. Bon appétit!
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