Skewers — Nutrients, Health Benefits, and Shopping Tips
Written by Listonic Team
Last update on September 3, 2024
Skewers facts & tips
Health benefits
- Versatile and nutritious, allowing for a combination of proteins, vegetables, and healthy fats, creating a balanced meal.
- Supports portion control, as ingredients are often served in manageable, bite-sized pieces.
- Encourages the consumption of vegetables, as they are often included on skewers alongside proteins.
- Rich in protein when made with meat, seafood, or tofu, which is essential for muscle growth, repair, and overall body function.
- Can be low in fat, particularly when grilled, making it a healthy option for heart health and weight management.
Health risks
- High fat content particularly if the skewers include fatty meats or are cooked with added oils, which can raise cholesterol levels and increase the risk of heart disease when consumed frequently.
- High sodium content particularly in pre-marinated or seasoned skewers, which can contribute to hypertension and increased cardiovascular risks.
- Risk of contamination with harmful bacteria such as Salmonella or E. coli, particularly if the meat or vegetables on the skewers are not properly cooked to a safe internal temperature.
- Potential for carcinogen formation if the skewers are grilled or charred at high temperatures, which can produce harmful compounds linked to an increased risk of cancer.
How to choose skewers
When purchasing skewers for grilling, choose those that are evenly cut and have no splinters, ensuring they can safely hold food. The wood should be untreated and smooth, ideal for cooking over an open flame.
Avoid skewers that are rough or have an oily coating, as these can catch fire easily or impart an unwanted flavor to the food. Skewers that are too thin or brittle should also be avoided, as they may break during cooking.
How to store skewers
Raw skewers should be kept in the refrigerator, securely wrapped in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container. Chilling them helps maintain their freshness for up to one to two days. If you need to store them for a longer period, freezing is an option, allowing them to last for up to two to three months.
Exposing skewers to air can lead to rapid spoilage. It's important to refrain from leaving them out at room temperature for long durations. Always utilize clean utensils and surfaces when handling skewers to avoid cross-contamination and ensure food safety.
✅ Extra Tip
How long do they last?
Skewers can last for 1-2 days in the refrigerator once prepared. For longer storage, they can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
What to do with leftovers?
Leftover skewers, whether they're made with meat, vegetables, or a combination of both, can be repurposed into a variety of delicious dishes. In the kitchen, leftover skewers can be chopped up and added to salads, wraps, or stir-fries to create a quick and flavorful meal. The grilled flavors of the skewers add depth and texture to any dish.
Another way to use leftover skewers is to remove the ingredients from the skewers and use them as a filling for sandwiches, quesadillas, or even pizzas. The cooked ingredients can also be mixed into pasta or rice dishes for an easy, hearty meal. If the skewers included seafood or chicken, these can be transformed into a flavorful broth or soup by simmering the bones or shells with vegetables and herbs. The versatility of skewers means that they can easily be repurposed into a variety of tasty meals, helping to reduce food waste and create new culinary experiences.
👨⚕️️ Medical disclaimer
Discover products from other categories
Listonic Team
Fact-checked
Our editorial team checked this article to make sure it was accurate at the time of publishing it.
Get the top-rated shopping list app
