Grilled Shrimp with Shishito Peppers

These grilled shrimp with shishito peppers are smoky, spicy, and packed with bold flavor from sesame oil, chili paste, and citrus. Quick to cook and perfect for the grill, this dish works as an appetizer, main, or shareable plate for summer entertaining.

Grilled shrimp and shishito peppers are one of those combinations that feel effortless but impressive. With just a few bold ingredients and a hot grill, you get a dish that balances heat, smoke, and brightness in under ten minutes of cook time.

This recipe is ideal for the outdoor cooking season and works equally well as a light main dish or a flavorful starter for a grilled spread.

Why Shrimp and Shishito Peppers Work So Well Together

Shrimp cook quickly and absorb marinades easily, making them perfect for high-heat grilling. Shishito peppers blister beautifully over direct heat and bring mild heat with occasional spicy bites that pair naturally with seafood.

Together, they create contrast in texture, heat, and flavor while staying light and fresh.

Supplies:

• Bamboo Skewers / Metal Skewers
• Mixing Bowl
• Whisk
• Tongs

Ingredients for Grilled Shrimp with Shishito Peppers

This recipe relies on simple, bold ingredients that shine on the grill.

• Peeled and deveined shrimp
• Shishito peppers
• Sesame oil
• Chili paste or chili sauce
• Soy sauce or coconut aminos
• Fresh lemon or lime juice
• Salt and black pepper
• Toasted sesame seeds

How to Prepare the Shrimp Marinade

The marinade combines sesame oil, chili paste, soy sauce, citrus, and seasoning. It adds depth without overpowering the shrimp.

Shrimp can be marinated briefly for quick cooking or up to an hour for deeper flavor. Avoid longer marinating times, as shrimp can become soft if left too long in acidic ingredients.

How to Grill Shrimp on Skewers

Using the double skewer method keeps shrimp stable and makes flipping easier on the grill.

Thread each shrimp through two parallel skewers so they stay flat and cook evenly. This technique works especially well for shrimp and prevents spinning when turning.

How to Grill Shishito Peppers

The nice thing about pairing these peppers with shrimp is that they all cook in the same amount of time. Assemble them onto skewers the same way as your shrimp and let them blister quickly, rotating and turning a handful of times.

Blistering occurs on the shishito when you see the skin on the pepper start to change to a lighter gray and slightly black color. You want to find a balance between blistering them entirely, but still getting that crispy effect, coating the outside skin of the pepper. Once you remove your peppers from the grill

How to Serve Grilled Shrimp with Shishito Peppers

One of the best things about this dish is how versatile it is. Grilled shrimp with shishito peppers can be served straight from the grill as a shareable appetizer, making it perfect for casual gatherings or outdoor entertaining.

It also works beautifully as a main dish when paired with rice, grilled vegetables, or noodles for a more complete meal. For parties or cookouts, add it to a larger grilled spread alongside sauces and dips so guests can mix and match.

Just before serving, finish the shrimp and peppers with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds and a fresh squeeze of citrus to brighten everything up and tie the flavors together.

Storage and Make Ahead Tips

Grilled shrimp are best served fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days.

If making ahead, marinate the shrimp and prep the peppers in advance, then grill just before serving for the best texture and flavor.

More Recipes To Try

• Smoked Salmon Burgers
• How To Make Shishito Peppers On The Grill
• 7 Healthy Grilled and Smoked Seafood Dinner Recipes
• Easy Smoked Shrimp
• Hot Smoked Salmon