Tropical Grilled Shrimp Skewers

Grilled Shrimp Pineapple Skewers are the ultimate summer delight—an irresistible combination of tender shrimp paired with the refreshing sweetness of pineapple. Grilled to perfection with a smoky char, these skewers offer a tropical twist perfect for any cookout or family dinner. With minimal ingredients and a quick cook time, this dish provides a satisfying, healthy meal that’s ready in less than 30 minutes.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Grilled Shrimp Pineapple Skewers are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. The savory shrimp, complemented by the sweetness of fresh pineapple, is perfect for those who crave a refreshing, tropical-inspired dish. The quick prep time, combined with the ease of grilling, makes this recipe a go-to for busy weeknights, BBQs, or casual gatherings. The sweet and smoky flavors blend beautifully, while the light marinade enhances the shrimp’s natural flavor. The dish is:

• Perfect for a tropical-inspired meal.
• Quick and simple, ready in under 30 minutes.
• Ideal for grilling indoors or outdoors.
• Great for serving as appetizers or a main course.
• A customizable dish that you can modify to suit your personal taste or dietary preferences.
• Low in carbs and high in protein.
• Colorful and vibrant, adding a fresh aesthetic to your meal presentation.
• Family-friendly, fun, and easy to eat.
• Easily scalable for large gatherings or smaller servings.
• Works well with either fresh or frozen shrimp.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 cups fresh pineapple chunks
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey (or brown sugar for sweetness)
• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak them for 30 minutes to avoid burning)

Directions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), lime juice, salt, and black pepper to create a flavorful marinade.
2. Marinate the Shrimp: Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the marinade, tossing them gently to coat. Let the shrimp marinate for at least 15-20 minutes to absorb the flavors. If you have more time, you can let them sit for up to an hour for a richer taste.
3. Assemble the Skewers: After the shrimp has marinated, alternate threading the shrimp and fresh pineapple chunks onto the skewers. You can also add bell peppers, zucchini, or red onion for extra flavor and color, but these additions are optional.
4. Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (approximately 375-400°F or 190-200°C). Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent the shrimp and pineapple from sticking.
5. Grill the Skewers: Place the skewers on the grill and cook them for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turns pink and opaque, with slight char marks. The pineapple should also have a few light grill marks. Be sure not to overcook the shrimp to avoid a rubbery texture.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Remove the skewers from the grill and serve immediately with a side of rice, grilled vegetables, or a crisp salad. Garnish with fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime juice for added brightness and flavor.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 6-8 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

Feel free to experiment with these variations to customize your Grilled Shrimp Pineapple Skewers:

• Add Extra Veggies: Bell peppers, zucchini, or red onion can be added to the skewers for added color and flavor.
• Spicy Kick: For a spicy twist, use chili flakes or sriracha sauce in the marinade to give the skewers a little heat.
• Coconut Twist: Swap the honey with coconut milk for a creamier, more tropical marinade that complements the shrimp and pineapple.
• Different Proteins: If you’re not a fan of shrimp, you can easily substitute with chicken or tofu. Marinate and grill the same way!
• Asian-Inspired Flavor: For a more savory flavor, replace the soy sauce with teriyaki sauce in the marinade.

Storage & Reheating

• Storage: If you have leftovers, store the skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, remove the shrimp and pineapple from the skewers and place them in a skillet over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, microwave them in 30-second intervals. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp when reheating, as they can become tough and rubbery.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How do I know when the shrimp is fully cooked on the grill?
Shrimp are fully cooked when they turn a bright pink color and become opaque. Typically, this takes 2-3 minutes per side, depending on the size of the shrimp.

2. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp can be used, but be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry with paper towels before marinating to avoid excess moisture.

3. What kind of pineapple should I use?
For the best flavor, fresh pineapple is recommended. If you need a substitute, you can use canned pineapple chunks, but make sure they are well-drained before using.

4. Do I need to peel the shrimp before grilling?
Yes, peeling and deveining the shrimp beforehand will ensure that the shrimp have the best flavor and texture. The shell can become tough when grilled.

5. Can I make these skewers in the oven?
Yes! You can broil the skewers in your oven on a baking sheet for about 4-5 minutes per side. Make sure to keep a close eye on them to avoid overcooking.

6. How long should I marinate the shrimp?
The shrimp need at least 15-20 minutes to marinate, but for more intense flavor, you can let them marinate for up to 1 hour.

7. What sides pair well with these skewers?
These skewers go wonderfully with sides like quinoa, jasmine rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette.

8. Are these skewers suitable for meal prep?
While they are best enjoyed fresh off the grill, you can certainly prepare the shrimp and pineapple ahead of time. Simply refrigerate the marinated ingredients and assemble the skewers right before grilling.

9. Can I grill these skewers indoors?
Yes, if you don’t have access to an outdoor grill, you can use a stovetop grill pan or an electric indoor grill to cook these skewers.

10. Should I oil the grill grates before cooking?
Yes, it’s always a good idea to lightly oil the grill grates before cooking to prevent the shrimp and pineapple from sticking to the surface.

Conclusion

Grilled Shrimp Pineapple Skewers are the perfect way to bring the flavors of the tropics to your table, whether you’re grilling outdoors or cooking indoors. The combination of juicy shrimp, caramelized pineapple, and zesty lime makes for a mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a BBQ or just looking for a quick weeknight meal, these skewers are sure to impress and become a staple in your recipe collection. The vibrant flavors and easy preparation make them a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Give these skewers a try today, and enjoy the delicious burst of tropical flavor in every bite!