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Delicious cranberry-glazed shrimp skewers arranged on a platter.

Classic Cranberry-Glazed Shrimp Skewers

These Classic Cranberry-Glazed Shrimp Skewers are a perfect balance of sweet and savory. Featuring succulent shrimp coated in a vibrant cranberry glaze, they are quick to prepare and ideal for a light meal or appetizer.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings 4 people
Calories 180 kcal

Equipment

  • Skewers (metal or soaked bamboo)
  • Medium bowl
  • Whisk
  • Grill or grill pan
  • Basting brush (optional)

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb Large shrimp, peeled & deveined (21-25 count)
  • ½ cup Fresh or canned whole-berry cranberry sauce (low-sugar works)
  • 2 Tbsp Light brown sugar or honey
  • 1 Tbsp Low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 1 Tbsp Fresh lime juice (or lemon)
  • 1 tsp Minced garlic (or ½ tsp garlic powder)
  • ½ tsp Grated fresh ginger (or ¼ tsp ground ginger)
  • 1 tsp Olive oil (or neutral oil)
  • Sea salt & cracked black pepper to taste
  • 1 Tbsp Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Equipment & Garnish

  • 8–10 Skewers (metal or soaked bamboo)
  • 4–6 Optional garnish: thin orange or lemon slices

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • If using bamboo skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels.

Make the Glaze

  • In a medium bowl, whisk together the cranberry sauce, brown sugar (or honey), soy sauce, lime juice, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.

Skewer the Shrimp

  • Toss the shrimp with 1 tablespoon of the cranberry glaze to coat. Thread the glazed shrimp onto the prepared skewers.

Cook the Shrimp

  • Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Lightly brush the grill grates or pan with olive oil to prevent sticking. Place skewers on the hot grill or pan and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Baste with remaining cranberry glaze during the last minute of cooking, if desired.

Serve

  • Remove skewers from the grill and let them rest for a minute. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley and optional orange or lemon slices. Serve immediately.

Notes

For extra flavor, marinate the shrimp in a small amount of the glaze for 15-20 minutes before skewering. If using an outdoor grill, ensure the grates are clean to prevent sticking. Adjust sweetness and spice levels to your preference by adding more brown sugar/honey or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze.