Shrimp, Watermelon and Halloumi Kabobs "Ultimate BBQ"

 

                    With a high melting point, halloumi cheese is a great choice for the grill. It is popular in Greek and Turkish cuisines and is made from a mixture of goat and sheep milk.

6 servings

• 36 unpeeled jumbo raw shrimp, peeled, leaving tails on and deveined
• 12 (12-inch) wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
• Cilantro-Lime Marinade, recipe belows
• 12 oz. halloumi cheese, cut into 1½-inch cubes
• 24 (2-inch) watermelon cubes
• 3 tablespoons fresh cilantro leaves, torn
• 3 tablespoons fresh mint leaves, torn

1. Combine shrimp and ½ cup Cilantro-Lime Marinade in a large zip-top plastic freezer bag.
2. Combine cheese and ½ cup Cilantro-Lime Marinade in a large zip-top plastic freezer bag.
3. Seal bags, chill 30 minutes, turning occasionally.
4. Preheat grill to 350F to 400F medium-high heat.
5. Remove shrimp and cheese from marinades, discarding marinades.
6. Thread shrimp, watermelon, and cheese alternately onto skewers, leaving a one/eight inch space between pieces.
7. Grill kabobs, covered with grill lid, 4 to 5 minutes on each side or just until shrimp turn pink.
8. Sprinkle with cilantro and mint.
9. Serve with the remaining Cilantro-Lime Marinade.

Cilantro-Lime Marinade

                    This marinade also doubles as a vinaigrette and dipping sauce, and the sweetness can be adjusted by adding more sugar if you'd like.

Gives 2 cups

• 1 cup red wine vinegar
• ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 2 tablespoons seeded and minced jalapeno pepper
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 2 tablespoons lime zest
• ¼ cup fresh lime juice
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 2 garlic cloves, pressed
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup canola oil

1. Whisk together vinegar, and next 8 ingredients until blended.
2. Add canola oil in a slow, steady stream, whisking constantly until smooth.
3. Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to a week.

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