Grilled Surf and Turf Skewers

Published: June 6, 2025

by Victoria

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to Prepare: With just an hour of marinating time, you can have this delicious meal ready in no time.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of marinated steak and shrimp results in an unforgettable taste that will impress your guests.
Versatile Dish: Perfect for summer grilling, family dinners, or even as a fancy appetizer for parties.
Healthy Option: Packed with protein and low in carbs, these skewers fit well into a balanced diet.
Easy Clean-Up: Using skewers means less mess on the grill, making clean-up a breeze.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Grilled Surf and Turf Skewers, you will need some essential tools to make the process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Metal or wooden skewers
Grill
Mixing bowls
Knife
Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

Metal or wooden skewers: These are crucial for holding your steak and shrimp together while grilling. Metal skewers are reusable and won’t catch fire like wooden ones.
Grill: A good quality grill is key to achieving that perfect char on your skewers. It brings out the flavor in both the steak and shrimp.
Mixing bowls: You’ll need these to marinate the ingredients properly before grilling.
Knife & cutting board: Essential for preparing your ingredients by cubing the steak and mincing garlic.

Ingredients

Use your grill to make this simple and delicious surf and turf meal.

For the Steak

1 lb sirloin steak
1/4 cup olive oil
1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce
2 cloves of garlic, minced
Salt and Pepper to taste

For the Shrimp

24 med-large raw peeled shrimp with tails on
1/4 cup olive oil
1/4 cup lemon juice
2 cloves of garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Grilled Surf and Turf Skewers

Step 1: Soak Your Skewers

If using wooden skewers, place them in water and soak for at least 1 hour prior to grilling so they don’t catch fire. I prefer to use reusable metal skewers for the grill.

Step 2: Prep Your Ingredients

Defrost shrimp if frozen.
Mince garlic.
Cube sirloin into bite-size cubes.

Step 3: Marinate Your Protein

Add shrimp to one bowl and cubed steak to another.
Toss the shrimp in olive oil, lemon juice, and minced garlic.
Toss the steak cubes in olive oil, soy sauce, and minced garlic.
Cover both bowls with plastic wrap or lids and let marinate in the fridge for about an hour.

Step 4: Assemble Skewers

Skewer the shrimp onto one set of skewers and the steak onto another set separately.

Step 5: Preheat the Grill

Heat your grill over medium-high heat until it’s nice and hot.

Step 6: Grill Your Skewers

When the grill is warm, add the skewers to it.
Cook the shrimp for about 3 minutes on each side until they turn pink; then remove from grill.
Cook the steak for about 12 minutes total, rotating every 3 minutes. Keep the grill closed between rotations.

Step 7: Rest Before Serving

Allow the steak to rest for 10 minutes prior to eating! This step helps retain its juices better when sliced.

Now you’re all set to enjoy these delicious Grilled Surf and Turf Skewers!

How to Serve Grilled Surf and Turf Skewers

Grilled Surf and Turf Skewers make for an impressive meal that can be served in various ways. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a festive gathering, these skewers are sure to delight your guests.

On a Bed of Greens

Fresh mixed greens – Serve the skewers over a bed of arugula or spinach for a refreshing touch.
Caesar salad – Pair with a classic Caesar salad for a rich and flavorful combination.

With Dipping Sauces

Garlic aioli – A creamy garlic dip enhances the flavors of both steak and shrimp.
Chimichurri sauce – This vibrant herb sauce adds a zesty kick to your skewers.

Accompanied by Grains

Quinoa – A nutritious option that complements the protein-rich skewers well.
Rice pilaf – Fluffy rice mixed with herbs and nuts pairs beautifully with the grilled meats.

How to Perfect Grilled Surf and Turf Skewers

Creating the perfect Grilled Surf and Turf Skewers requires a few simple techniques. Follow these tips to ensure delicious results every time.

Choose quality meat – Opt for fresh sirloin steak and large shrimp for the best flavor.
Marinate properly – Allow the steak and shrimp to marinate for at least one hour to enhance their taste.
Preheat the grill – Ensure your grill is hot before adding the skewers; this helps achieve great sear marks.
Rotate frequently – Turn the steak every few minutes while grilling to cook it evenly.
Let it rest – Allow the steak to rest after grilling; this keeps it juicy and flavorful.
Use proper skewer sizes – If using wooden skewers, soak them beforehand to prevent burning.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Surf and Turf Skewers

To complement your Grilled Surf and Turf Skewers, consider serving them with delicious side dishes. These pairings enhance the overall dining experience.

Garlic bread – Crispy on the outside, soft inside, it’s perfect for soaking up any juices.
Corn on the cob – Sweet corn adds a delightful crunch that balances the meal’s richness.
Roasted vegetables – Seasonal veggies tossed in olive oil create a colorful and healthy side.
Potato salad – Creamy potato salad brings comfort and texture to your plate.
Grilled asparagus – Tender grilled asparagus adds elegance and fresh flavor.
Pasta salad – A cold pasta salad provides a refreshing contrast that pairs well with grilled meats.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Grilled Surf and Turf Skewers, a few common pitfalls can affect your results. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

Skipping the Soaking Process: If you use wooden skewers, soaking them is crucial. This prevents them from catching fire on the grill. Always soak them for at least 1 hour before grilling.
Neglecting to Marinate: Failing to marinate both the shrimp and steak can lead to bland flavors. Take the time to let them soak in their marinades for at least an hour for maximum taste.
Overcrowding the Grill: Placing too many skewers on the grill can lower its temperature and lead to uneven cooking. Grill in batches if necessary, allowing space between each skewer.
Not Letting Steak Rest: Cutting into the steak immediately after grilling releases juices, making it dry. Always allow the steak to rest for about 10 minutes before serving.
Ignoring Doneness: Shrimp cooks quickly, while steak requires more time. Keep an eye on both types of skewers to ensure they are cooked perfectly without drying out.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store properly: Place leftover Grilled Surf and Turf Skewers in an airtight container.
Duration: They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Cool down: Ensure skewers are cooled completely before sealing them in containers.

Freezing Grilled Surf and Turf Skewers

Freeze securely: Wrap the skewers tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
Storage time: They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Label bags: Don’t forget to label with the date for easy tracking!

Reheating Grilled Surf and Turf Skewers

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place skewers on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Place skewers on a microwave-safe plate. Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds, checking frequently until hot.
Stovetop: Reheat skewers in a skillet over medium heat. Turn occasionally until heated through, which should take about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Grilled Surf and Turf Skewers spicy?

You can add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to your marinade for extra heat. Adjust according to your spice preference.

Can I use different meats for Grilled Surf and Turf Skewers?

Yes! Feel free to swap sirloin steak with chicken or beef, and use different seafood like scallops or fish instead of shrimp.

What’s the best way to ensure my shrimp stays juicy?

Marinating your shrimp adequately is key. Avoid overcooking by keeping an eye on them; they cook quickly!

How do I know when my steak is done?

Use a meat thermometer; aim for an internal temperature of around 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare. Adjust cooking time based on your preferred doneness level.

Can I prepare Grilled Surf and Turf Skewers ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the marinades and cut meats a day in advance; just store everything separately in the fridge until you’re ready to grill.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Surf and Turf Skewers offer a delightful combination of flavors that are sure to impress any dinner guest or family member. The versatility of this dish allows you to customize it with different proteins or marinades, ensuring that each meal is unique. Don’t hesitate—give this recipe a try today!

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