The Best Healthy Baked Cinnamon Shrimp Skewers Recipe
Introduction
These healthy baked cinnamon shrimp skewers offer a unique twist on traditional shrimp recipes, combining warm cinnamon spice with tender seafood. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful appetizer, they’re simple to prepare and sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs peeled & deveined shrimp (about 55-60 count)
- 1 & 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Step 1: Place the shrimp in a medium bowl. Add the cinnamon, salt, and garlic powder, then stir with a wooden spoon to coat all the shrimp evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or up to 24 hours to let the flavors meld.
- Step 2: Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C). Thread about 5 shrimp onto each skewer and arrange the skewers on a nonstick baking sheet.
- Step 3: Drizzle olive oil over the shrimp skewers. Use a brush to ensure each side is coated with oil. Bake in the preheated oven for 5-8 minutes until the shrimp are cooked through. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips & Variations
- Soaking wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before threading helps prevent burning during baking.
- For extra flavor, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving.
- Try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle spicy kick alongside the cinnamon.
Storage
Store any leftover shrimp skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm them gently in the oven at a low temperature or briefly in a skillet to avoid overcooking and drying out the shrimp.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp as long as they are fully thawed and patted dry before seasoning. This helps the spices stick better and ensures even cooking.
Can I grill these cinnamon shrimp skewers instead of baking?
Absolutely! Grilling the skewers over medium-high heat for about 2-3 minutes per side works great and adds a nice smoky flavor. Just be sure to oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
PrintThe Best Healthy Baked Cinnamon Shrimp Skewers Recipe
These Healthy Baked Cinnamon Shrimp Skewers offer a unique and flavorful twist on classic shrimp, blending warm cinnamon and garlic with a touch of olive oil. Perfectly baked to tender, juicy perfection, they make a quick, nutritious, and delightful meal or appetizer that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress your guests.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus marinating time of 2-24 hours)
- Cook Time: 5-8 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 18 minutes to 24 hours 18 minutes (including marinating)
- Yield: Approximately 11–12 skewers (5 shrimp per skewer) 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Shrimp and Spices
- 1.5 lbs peeled & deveined shrimp (approximately 55–60 count)
- 1 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
For Brushing
- 1–2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Season the Shrimp: Place the peeled and deveined shrimp in a medium bowl. Add cinnamon, salt, and garlic powder. Stir thoroughly with a wooden spoon to ensure each shrimp is evenly coated with the spices. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or up to 24 hours to let the flavors marinate deeply.
- Preheat and Prepare Skewers: When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Thread about 5 shrimp onto each skewer carefully to keep them intact. Arrange the shrimp skewers evenly on a nonstick baking sheet to prevent sticking during cooking.
- Oil and Bake: Lightly drizzle olive oil over the shrimp skewers. Use a brush to ensure each side of the shrimp is coated evenly with olive oil, which helps in browning and flavor. Bake in the preheated oven for 5-8 minutes or until the shrimp turn opaque and are cooked through. Serve immediately and enjoy your healthy cinnamon shrimp skewers!
Notes
- Marinating the shrimp for longer (up to 24 hours) intensifies the cinnamon flavor.
- Use metal or soaked wooden skewers to prevent burning in the oven.
- Do not overcook shrimp as they can become tough; watch closely during the last few minutes of baking.
- These skewers pair well with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
- Adjust cinnamon amount to taste if you prefer a milder or stronger spice presence.
Keywords: baked shrimp skewers, healthy shrimp recipe, cinnamon shrimp, easy seafood dish, quick shrimp skewers, oven baked shrimp, cinnamon spiced shrimp
