Garlic Shrimp and Butternut Party Bites
Roasted Butternut Squash and Garlic Shrimp Skewers are flavorful appetizers combining sweet, tender butternut squash cubes with juicy, garlicky shrimp seasoned with smoked paprika and lemon. These vibrant, easy-to-make skewers balance savory and sweet, perfect for parties or casual dinners.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 servings
- Category: Appetizer, Light Meal
- Method: Roasting, Sautéing, Assembly
- Cuisine: American, Contemporary
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
For the Butternut Squash:
2 lbs butternut squash, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
1 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp butter
1 tbsp honey
½ tsp salt
For the Garlic Shrimp:
1 lb large shrimp, peeled, heads removed, tails on
¼ cup olive oil
4 tbsp butter
¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes
6 garlic cloves, grated or minced
1 tsp Spanish smoked paprika
2–3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
¼ tsp salt
To Assemble:
Bamboo skewers
Lemon wedges for garnish
Instructions
Roast the Butternut Squash:
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Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
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Toss squash cubes with olive oil, butter, honey, and salt.
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Spread evenly on parchment-lined baking sheet.
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Roast 25-30 minutes, turning halfway, until tender and caramelized. Set aside.
Prepare the Garlic Shrimp:
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Heat olive oil and butter in skillet over medium heat.
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Sauté garlic and red pepper flakes 1 minute until fragrant.
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Add shrimp, paprika, salt; cook 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
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Stir in lemon juice; remove from heat.
Assemble the Skewers:
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Alternate threading roasted squash cubes and shrimp onto bamboo picks.
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Arrange on serving platter and garnish with lemon wedges.
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Serve immediately.
Notes
Add fresh thyme or rosemary to squash before roasting.
Substitute sweet potato for butternut squash.
Use Cajun seasoning for spicier shrimp.
Drizzle with honey or balsamic glaze for extra sweetness.
Serve with garlic aioli or spicy mayo for dipping.
Store leftover squash and shrimp separately in airtight containers up to 2 days; reheat gently before assembling.
