Grilled Shrimp & Pineapple Skewers

This sweet-and-savory grilled shrimp and pineapple skewer recipe transforms simple ingredients into a tropical-inspired meal in minutes. The natural sugars in the pineapple caramelize beautifully on the grill while complementing the succulent shrimp.

I first made these skewers during a summer backyard gathering when I needed something quick yet impressive. The combination was such a hit that it's now my go-to recipe whenever fresh shrimp is on sale at the market.

Ingredients

• Large shrimp: peeled and deveined. Look for firm shrimp with a mild ocean scent. Wild-caught options typically offer better flavor than farmed varieties.
• Fresh pineapple chunks: Choose a ripe pineapple with a sweet fragrance at the base and golden color extending up the sides for optimal sweetness.
• Olive oil: Use a good quality oil that will help prevent sticking and enhance the natural flavors.
• Fresh lime juice: Always use freshly squeezed for the brightest flavor profile.
• Salt and pepper: Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper make a noticeable difference in the final taste.
• Wooden or metal skewers: If using wooden skewers soak them in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Marinate the Protein and Fruit:

Combine shrimp and pineapple in a medium bowl. Add olive oil and fresh lime juice then season generously with salt and pepper. Gently toss everything together ensuring each piece is well coated. Allow this mixture to marinate for 15 to 20 minutes at room temperature. This short marination time infuses flavor without starting to "cook" the shrimp in the acid.

Assemble the Skewers:

Take your prepared skewers and thread the marinated ingredients in an alternating pattern. Leave a small space between each piece to ensure even cooking. For best results place a piece of pineapple at each end of the skewer which helps protect the more delicate shrimp from direct heat.

Grill to Perfection:

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat approximately 375-400°F. Place the skewers directly on the grates and grill for 2 to 3 minutes per side. Watch carefully as shrimp cook quickly. You'll know they're done when they turn opaque pink with slight char marks and the pineapple develops caramelized edges with distinct grill marks.

Serve Immediately:

Remove the skewers from the grill and transfer to a serving platter. Squeeze additional fresh lime juice over the top if desired. The contrast of the hot grilled items with the fresh citrus creates a beautiful flavor dimension.

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The marinade is deceptively simple but incredibly effective. I discovered that the natural enzymes in pineapple actually help tenderize the shrimp creating an amazingly juicy result. My family particularly loves when I serve these with coconut rice to soak up all the delicious juices.

Perfect Pairings

These tropical skewers pair beautifully with coconut rice or cilantro lime rice. The starchy base helps balance the bright flavors while soaking up the delicious juices from the grilled items. For a complete meal add a simple green salad with avocado to complement the tropical theme.

Make Ahead Options

While best enjoyed fresh off the grill you can prepare these skewers up to 24 hours in advance. Thread the marinated ingredients onto skewers cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. Allow them to come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before grilling for the most even cooking results.

Flavor Variations

The basic recipe is wonderfully versatile. Try adding minced garlic and ginger to the marinade for an Asian-inspired variation. For a spicy kick incorporate a dash of sriracha or red pepper flakes. You can also brush the skewers with a glaze of honey and soy sauce during the last minute of grilling for a delicious caramelized finish.

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I prevent wooden skewers from burning on the grill?

Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before threading on the shrimp and pineapple. This prevents them from burning during grilling. Alternatively, you can use metal skewers which don't require soaking and can be reused.

→ Can I prepare these skewers ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the shrimp and pineapple up to 2 hours in advance in the refrigerator. You can also thread the ingredients onto skewers up to 4 hours before cooking and keep them covered in the refrigerator. Just bring them to room temperature about 15 minutes before grilling.

→ How can I tell when the shrimp are perfectly cooked?

Perfectly cooked shrimp will turn from translucent gray to opaque pink throughout, with a slight curve forming a 'C' shape. If they curl too tightly into an 'O' shape, they're overcooked. Shrimp cook very quickly, typically 2-3 minutes per side depending on their size.

→ What side dishes pair well with these skewers?

These skewers pair beautifully with coconut rice, a simple green salad, grilled vegetables, or black bean and corn salsa. For a complete tropical-themed meal, serve with a side of guacamole and warm tortillas.

→ Can I make these skewers without a grill?

Absolutely! You can cook these skewers on a stovetop grill pan, under a broiler, or even in a hot cast-iron skillet. For broiling, position the skewers about 4 inches from the heat source and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until the shrimp are opaque and cooked through.

→ What can I substitute for pineapple?

If pineapple isn't available, mango chunks make an excellent substitute with a similar sweet-tart profile. Peaches or nectarines also work well during summer months. For a less sweet option, try zucchini or cherry tomatoes for a different but complementary flavor profile.