On a sun-drenched afternoon, with the salty breeze kissing my cheeks, I found myself wandering through a bustling coastal market. The vibrant colors of fresh seafood glistened under the sunlight, each catch whispering stories of the ocean. It was there, amidst the clamor of fishermen and the laughter of families, that I decided to create a dish that not only captured the essence of the sea but also celebrated the zesty brightness of citrus and the aromatic allure of fresh herbs. Thus, the Citrus & Herb Infused Seafood Medley was born, a dish that transports you to a breezy seaside picnic with every bite.
Ingredients
200g shrimp, peeled and deveined
200g scallops
200g squid, cleaned and sliced into rings
1 lemon, zested and juiced
1 lime, zested and juiced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon sea salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
1 red chili, finely chopped (optional, for heat)
Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
Begin by marinating your seafood. In a large bowl, combine the shrimp, scallops, and squid. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle in the minced garlic, smoked paprika, sea salt, and black pepper. Add the zests and juices of the lemon and lime, stirring gently to ensure every piece is coated in this vibrant mixture. Set aside to marinate for at least 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
As the seafood bathes in its citrusy embrace, prepare your grilling station. Preheat a grill or a grill pan over medium-high heat until hot and ready to create those enticing char marks.
Once the seafood has marinated, thread the shrimp, scallops, and squid onto skewers. If you’re using wooden skewers, remember to soak them in water for about 30 minutes to prevent burning. Each skewer should be an artful display of the ocean’s treasures, interspersed with the occasional slice of red chili for a touch of heat, should you desire.
Place the skewers onto the hot grill, cooking for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turn pink, the scallops are opaque, and the squid is tender. The aroma wafting from the grill will transport you straight to the coast, where the waves dance in rhythm with your culinary creation.
Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and sprinkle the fresh parsley and cilantro over the top, adding a final flourish of color and flavor. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of brightness that complements the delicate seafood beautifully.
This dish is best enjoyed with your toes in the sand and friends gathered around, sharing stories and laughter, just as I experienced that sunny day at the market. Dive into the flavors of the ocean with every bite, and let this Citrus & Herb Infused Seafood Medley remind you that sometimes, the simplest ingredients create the most unforgettable memories.