Shrimp and Lemon Skewers with Feta Dill Sauce: A Refreshing Mediterranean Delight
This delightful recipe for Shrimp and Lemon Skewers with Feta Dill Sauce embodies the vibrant flavors of Greek cuisine while offering a refreshing and summery taste that is sure to impress at any gathering. Originally featured in Food and Wine in June 2004, this dish is perfect for outdoor grilling during warm weather and has quickly become a favorite among those who have tasted it. With succulent shrimp perfectly paired with zesty lemon and a creamy feta dill sauce, each bite is a delicious experience. This recipe is not only quick to prepare, taking less than 30 minutes from start to finish, but it also boasts a low-calorie count, making it a guilt-free indulgence for any occasion.
Ingredients
To create this flavorful dish, gather the following ingredients:
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 1/2 cup | Low-fat plain yogurt |
| 1 | Scallion, finely chopped |
| 4 cloves | Garlic, minced |
| 2 1/2 tablespoons | Fresh dill, chopped |
| 1/2 cup | Feta cheese, crumbled |
| 1/4 cup | Extra virgin olive oil |
| 2 pounds | Large shrimp, peeled and deveined |
| 2 | Lemons, cut into wedges |
| Salt and pepper to taste |
Nutritional Information
This recipe yields approximately six servings, and each serving contains the following nutritional values:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 305.1 |
| Total Fat | 14.6 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3.8 g |
| Cholesterol | 242.3 mg |
| Sodium | 377.8 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 10.5 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.8 g |
| Sugars | 4.5 g |
| Protein | 34.1 g |
Instructions
Now, let us embark on the simple yet rewarding process of preparing these Shrimp and Lemon Skewers with Feta Dill Sauce. Follow these detailed steps to achieve a dish that will leave your guests raving about your culinary skills:
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Prepare the Grill: Start by lighting your grill, ensuring it reaches a medium-hot temperature, which is ideal for grilling shrimp. If using a charcoal grill, allow the coals to burn until they are covered with white ash; if using a gas grill, preheat for about 10 minutes.
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Make the Feta Dill Sauce: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the low-fat plain yogurt with the finely chopped scallion, 1/4 of the minced garlic, and 1/2 tablespoon of the chopped fresh dill. Mix well until all ingredients are fully integrated, creating a creamy and flavorful sauce. Then, gently fold in the crumbled feta cheese, mashing it slightly to create a cohesive mixture. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning based on your preference. Once prepared, set this sauce aside, allowing the flavors to meld while you prepare the skewers.
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Marinate the Shrimp: In a large bowl, combine the remaining minced garlic, 2 tablespoons of fresh dill, and the extra virgin olive oil. Add the large shrimp and lemon wedges to this mixture, ensuring they are well coated. Season the mixture generously with salt and pepper, tossing everything together to ensure an even distribution of flavors. Allow the shrimp to marinate for about 10 minutes; this step is crucial as it enhances the overall taste of the skewers.
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Assemble the Skewers: Take wooden or metal skewers and thread 3 to 4 marinated shrimp onto each skewer, alternating with 2 lemon wedges per skewer for a pop of color and flavor. Make sure to leave a little space between each shrimp for even cooking.
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Grill the Skewers: Once the grill is hot and ready, place the skewers on the grates. Grill the shrimp over medium-hot heat, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking. The skewers should take approximately 5 minutes to cook through; look for the shrimp to become opaque and charred slightly, which indicates they are done.
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Serve: Once the skewers are grilled to perfection, transfer them to a serving platter. Present them alongside the creamy Feta Dill Sauce, allowing your guests to dip and enjoy the delightful flavors. This dish is best served immediately, while the shrimp are still warm and the sauce remains cool and refreshing.
Conclusion
These Shrimp and Lemon Skewers with Feta Dill Sauce are not only a feast for the eyes but also a delicious and healthy option for any outdoor gathering or family dinner. With their quick preparation time and delightful flavors, they embody the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. As you savor each bite, you may find yourself transported to a sun-drenched terrace overlooking the azure sea, making this dish a perfect centerpiece for your summer entertaining. Enjoy this recipe and share it with friends and family, who will undoubtedly ask for seconds!
