Grilled Surf and Turf Skewers with Chimichurri (Complete Gourmet Step-by-Step Recipe)

Introduction

Grilled Surf and Turf Skewers with Chimichurri are the perfect combination of land and sea, bringing together juicy, tender steak and succulent seafood on a single skewer. This dish is elegant enough for special occasions yet simple enough to prepare at home. The smoky char from the grill, paired with the bold, herbaceous chimichurri sauce, creates a flavor experience that feels restaurant-quality.

This recipe is written as a complete cooking guide, following the same detailed structure you requested before. It includes clear directions, professional tips, do’s and don’ts, variations, grilling techniques, serving ideas, and storage tips. Ideal for food blogs, monetized websites, or serious home cooks.

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What Is Surf and Turf?

Surf and Turf traditionally refers to a dish that combines seafood (surf) and red meat (turf), most commonly steak and shrimp or lobster. In this skewer version, both proteins are cut into bite-sized pieces and grilled together, making it easier to cook evenly and serve beautifully.

Chimichurri, a classic Argentine sauce made with fresh herbs, garlic, vinegar, and olive oil, cuts through the richness of the meat and seafood with freshness and acidity.

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Ingredients (Serves 4–6)

For the Skewers

• 500 g (1 lb) beef steak (sirloin, ribeye, or tenderloin)
• 400 g (14 oz) large shrimp or prawns, peeled and deveined
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
• 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into chunks
• 1 red onion, cut into wedges
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• Wooden or metal skewers

Optional Add-Ons

• Cherry tomatoes
• Zucchini slices
• Mushrooms

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Ingredients for Chimichurri Sauce

• 1 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh coriander (optional)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar or lemon juice
• ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

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Preparation Before Grilling

Step 1: Soak the Skewers

• If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.

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Step 2: Prepare the Proteins

1. Cut steak into evenly sized 1½-inch cubes.
2. Pat shrimp dry with paper towels.
3. Place steak and shrimp in separate bowls.

Keeping them separate ensures even seasoning and cooking control.

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Step 3: Season the Steak and Shrimp

1. Divide olive oil between both bowls.
2. Season steak with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
3. Lightly season shrimp with salt and pepper only.

Tip: Shrimp cook faster than steak, so lighter seasoning works best.

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How to Make Chimichurri Sauce

1. In a bowl, combine parsley, coriander, garlic, and chili flakes.
2. Add vinegar or lemon juice.
3. Slowly drizzle in olive oil while stirring.
4. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Let sit for at least 15 minutes before serving.

Flavor Tip: Chimichurri tastes even better after resting.

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Assembling the Skewers

1. Thread steak, shrimp, and vegetables alternately onto skewers.
2. Leave a small space between pieces for even heat circulation.
3. Finish with a piece of vegetable at the end to secure.

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Grilling Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Grill

• Preheat grill to medium-high heat (200–220°C / 400–425°F).
• Clean and oil the grill grates.

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Step 2: Grill the Skewers

1. Place skewers directly on the grill.
2. Grill for 8–10 minutes total.
3. Turn every 2–3 minutes for even cooking.

Doneness Guide

• Steak medium-rare: internal temp 57°C (135°F)
• Shrimp: opaque and slightly firm

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Step 3: Rest and Finish

1. Remove skewers from grill.
2. Let rest for 3–5 minutes.
3. Spoon chimichurri generously over skewers.

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Tips and Tricks for Perfect Surf and Turf Skewers

• Use steak cuts that stay tender on high heat
• Keep shrimp and steak pieces similar in size
• Don’t overcrowd skewers
• Always preheat the grill
• Chimichurri should be fresh, not cooked

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Do’s and Don’ts

Do’s

• Do soak wooden skewers
• Do season steak more than shrimp
• Do turn skewers gently
• Do let meat rest

Don’ts

• Don’t overcook shrimp
• Don’t press skewers on grill
• Don’t skip oiling the grates
• Don’t drown chimichurri in oil

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Variations

Spicy Version

Add fresh chopped green chilies or extra chili flakes to chimichurri.

Garlic Butter Finish

Brush skewers with garlic butter after grilling.

Halal-Friendly Version

Use halal-certified beef and seafood with no alcohol-based vinegar.

Oven or Grill Pan Method

• Roast at 220°C (425°F) for 12–15 minutes, turning once.

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Serving Suggestions

Serve Grilled Surf and Turf Skewers with:

• Garlic rice or buttered rice
• Grilled corn on the cob
• Fresh green salad
• Roasted potatoes
• Warm flatbread or naan

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Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerate leftovers up to 2 days
• Reheat gently on grill pan or air fryer
• Avoid microwaving shrimp

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using tough steak cuts
• Over-marinating shrimp
• Cooking on low heat
• Skipping resting time

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Final Thoughts

Grilled Surf and Turf Skewers with Chimichurri bring together bold flavors, beautiful presentation, and satisfying textures in one dish. Whether you’re hosting a BBQ, preparing a special dinner, or creating content for a food blog, this recipe delivers elegance with simplicity.

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