Grilled Shrimp & Pineapple Skewers are the ultimate tropical treat, combining tender shrimp with the sweet, juicy bite of fresh pineapple, all perfectly grilled. This dish brings together smoky flavors and vibrant, fresh ingredients that are sure to impress. Whether you’re preparing for a cookout, a family dinner, or just looking for something quick and flavorful, these skewers are a simple yet delicious choice. The recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it with your favorite vegetables and spices, making it ideal for all types of gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Grilled Shrimp & Pineapple Skewer recipe is packed with both flavor and convenience. It’s an ideal choice for a light, yet satisfying meal that’s both healthy and delicious. Whether you’re grilling outdoors or indoors, this dish is quick to prepare, and the vibrant colors make it an attractive addition to any meal. The best part? It’s packed with lean protein, making it a great low-carb, high-protein choice. Here are some more reasons why this recipe will become a family favorite:
- Combines the savory richness of shrimp with the sweet, tropical flavor of pineapple
- Quick to make, with less than 30 minutes of prep and cook time
- Versatile—add your favorite veggies or spices for variety
- High in protein, low in carbs
- Great for summer BBQs, as well as simple weeknight dinners
- Ideal for meal prepping—just assemble the skewers ahead of time and grill when ready
- Kid-friendly and perfect for family gatherings
- Can be customized with fresh or frozen shrimp
- Works well with both wooden or metal skewers
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tail on or off as preferred)
- 2 cups fresh pineapple chunks
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces (optional for added color)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Wooden or metal skewers
Directions
- Prepare Skewers: If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to avoid burning on the grill.
- Marinate the Shrimp: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, honey (or brown sugar), chili powder, salt, and black pepper to form the marinade. Add the shrimp to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Let the shrimp sit for at least 15-20 minutes, or up to 1 hour for deeper flavor.
- Assemble Skewers: Thread the marinated shrimp and pineapple chunks onto the skewers, alternating between the two. For an extra colorful twist, add red bell pepper pieces between the shrimp and pineapple.
- Preheat the Grill: Set your grill to medium-high heat (about 375-400°F). If using a grill pan, ensure it’s preheated and lightly oiled.
- Grill the Skewers: Place the skewers on the grill, cooking for 2-3 minutes per side. The shrimp should turn pink and opaque, and the pineapple will develop a light char. Avoid overcooking the shrimp, as they cook quickly.
- Serve: Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill. Serve them hot, and garnish with fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime, if desired. Pair the skewers with a side of rice, salad, or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Variations
- Veggie Additions: Add bell peppers, zucchini, or red onion for extra color and flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate chili flakes or sriracha into the marinade for a spicy version.
- Coconut Twist: Try marinating the shrimp in a coconut milk-based marinade for a creamy, tropical variation.
- Substitute Proteins: Use chicken, tofu, or even fish fillets instead of shrimp for a different flavor profile.
- Asian-Inspired: Swap out the soy sauce with teriyaki sauce for a more traditional Asian flavor profile.
Storage and Reheating
- Leftovers: Store any leftover shrimp and pineapple in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, remove the shrimp and pineapple from the skewers and warm them in a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes. Alternatively, microwave them in 30-second intervals. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become rubbery.
Grilled Shrimp Pineapple Skewers
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined Tail on or off, as preferred
- 2 cups fresh pineapple chunks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons lime juice, fresh
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 pieces wooden or metal skewers Soaked in water for at least 30 minutes if wooden
Instructions
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
- In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lime juice, honey (or brown sugar), chili powder, salt, and black pepper to make the marinade.
- Add shrimp to the marinade and let sit for at least 15-20 minutes, or up to 1 hour for a deeper flavor.
- Thread shrimp and pineapple chunks alternately onto the skewers.
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates.
- Grill the skewers for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turn pink and slightly charred.
- Remove the skewers from the grill and serve immediately with a side of rice, salad, or grilled vegetables.
Nutrition
FAQs
1. How do I know when shrimp is fully cooked on the grill?
Shrimp is cooked when it turns pink and opaque, usually within 2-3 minutes per side. The flesh should no longer be translucent.
2. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp can be used. Make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry with a paper towel before marinating.
3. What kind of pineapple should I use?
Fresh pineapple is the best option for flavor and texture, but you can substitute canned pineapple chunks (drained) in a pinch.
4. Do I need to peel the shrimp before grilling?
Yes, you should peel and devein the shrimp for optimal flavor and texture. It’s much easier to enjoy them once they’re cooked without the shell.
5. Can I make these skewers in the oven?
Yes! If you’re unable to grill outdoors, broil the skewers on a baking sheet in the oven for 4-5 minutes per side. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
6. How long should I marinate the shrimp?
The shrimp can marinate for as little as 15-20 minutes, but for maximum flavor, you can leave them in the marinade for up to 1 hour.
7. What sides go well with these skewers?
These skewers pair wonderfully with rice, quinoa, grilled vegetables, or a fresh green salad.
8. Are these skewers good for meal prep?
While you can assemble the skewers ahead of time, they are best enjoyed freshly grilled for the best texture. However, they can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days.
9. Can I grill the skewers indoors?
Absolutely! Use a stovetop grill pan or an electric indoor grill to prepare these skewers when you can’t grill outside.
10. Should I oil the grill grates before cooking?
Yes, oiling the grill grates helps to prevent the shrimp and pineapple from sticking and ensures even cooking.
Conclusion
Grilled Shrimp & Pineapple Skewers are a wonderfully fresh and flavorful dish that captures the essence of summer with a tropical twist. Perfect for any grilling occasion, this recipe is not only quick and easy to make but also highly customizable. The combination of sweet pineapple and savory shrimp, complemented by a simple marinade, creates a mouthwatering flavor profile that’s perfect for both casual meals and festive cookouts. Once you try these skewers, you’ll be eager to make them again and again. Whether enjoyed on a warm evening outdoors or a cozy indoor grill session, they’re sure to impress every time.
SEO-Optimized Title: Grilled Shrimp & Pineapple Skewers Recipe
