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I remember my first trip to Antalya. The vibrant colors of the markets, the scent of spices hanging in the air, and the mesmerizing turquoise of the Mediterranean Sea… it was an assault on the senses, in the best possible way. One particular evening, I stumbled upon a small restaurant tucked away in a narrow alley. The aroma of grilled seafood drew me in like a moth to a flame. That's where I first tasted these incredible seafood kebabs, bursting with freshness and flavor. I knew I had to recreate them back home, and after much experimentation, I think I've come pretty darn close! This recipe is a tribute to those unforgettable moments and the simple joy of savoring fresh seafood by the sea.
What makes these kebabs special? It's all about the marinade. A blend of fresh herbs like dill, parsley, and mint combined with garlic, lemon juice, and a hint of red pepper flakes creates a symphony of flavors that perfectly complements the seafood. I love using a mix of shrimp, calamari, and chunks of firm white fish like sea bass or grouper, but feel free to adapt it to your liking. The key is to use the freshest seafood you can find. Also don't forget a little pinch of salt it helps to bring the flavors together.
Grilling is, in my humble opinion, the best way to cook these kebabs. The smoky char adds another layer of complexity, enhancing the overall taste. But if you don't have a grill, no worries! You can also pan-fry them or bake them in the oven. Just make sure not to overcook the seafood, as it can become tough and rubbery. Serve these kebabs with a side of rice, couscous, or a simple salad for a complete and satisfying meal. You can add a little yogurt as well, this helps to make a flavorful bite!
Required Equipments
Mixing Bowl
Whisk
Skewers (wooden or metal)
Grill (or skillet/oven)
Tongs
Parchment Paper (optional)
Antalya Style Seafood Kebabs with Herbs: Frequently Asked Questions
Antalya Style Seafood Kebabs with Herbs
Transport yourself to the Turkish coast with Antalya Style Seafood Kebabs! Fresh seafood marinated in aromatic herbs and spices, then grilled to perfection – a quick, flavorful, and delightful culinary journey.
⏳ Yield & Time
Yield:2 servings
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time:
🍽 Ingredients
📖 Instructions
Prepare the Seafood: Rinse 1 pound of mixed seafood (shrimp, calamari, white fish) under cold water. Pat dry with paper towels. Cut the fish into 1-inch cubes and ensure the calamari is cleaned and sliced into rings. Place the seafood in a large bowl.
Make the Marinade: In a separate bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of finely chopped fresh dill, 2 tablespoons of finely chopped fresh parsley, 1 tablespoon of finely chopped fresh mint, 2 cloves of minced garlic, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice, 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (adjust to taste), 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Whisk all ingredients together until well combined. You can add more pepper if you like!
Marinate the Seafood: Pour the marinade over the seafood in the bowl. Gently toss to coat all the seafood pieces evenly with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful it will be!
Prepare the Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill. Thread the marinated seafood onto the skewers, alternating between shrimp, calamari, and fish cubes. Try to avoid overcrowding the skewers to ensure even cooking. Make sure the skewers are properly assembled.
Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375-400°F or 190-200°C). If you don't have a grill, you can preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or heat a large skillet on the stovetop over medium-high heat. Make sure the grill is properly cleaned and oiled.
Grill the Kebabs: Place the seafood skewers on the preheated grill. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until the seafood is cooked through and slightly charred. Be careful not to overcook the seafood, as it can become tough. You can use a spatula to lift and flip the skewers.
Pan-Fry the Kebabs (Alternative): If pan-frying, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seafood skewers and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until the seafood is cooked through and slightly browned. Add a bit of lemon juice to the seafood when cooked.
Bake the Kebabs (Alternative): If baking, place the seafood skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the seafood is cooked through. You can brush the seafood with melted butter for a richer flavor.
Serve: Remove the cooked seafood kebabs from the grill (or skillet/oven) and let them rest for a minute or two. Serve immediately with a side of rice, couscous, or a fresh salad. Garnish with extra fresh herbs and a lemon wedge. Be careful when handling hot skewers!
📝 Notes
For a richer flavor, marinate the seafood overnight.
Serve with a side of garlic aioli or tzatziki sauce.