Oh, summer barbecues! There’s just something magical about the smell of grilled food wafting through the air, and my absolute favorite on the grill has to be these Grilled Shrimp & Pineapple Skewers. Trust me, the combination of juicy shrimp and sweet pineapple is like a little tropical getaway on a stick! I remember the first time I made these for a gathering; everyone was raving about them! They’re not only super easy to whip up, but they also look so vibrant and inviting on the table. The sweetness of the pineapple perfectly balances the savory shrimp, and the best part? You can enjoy them as a light main dish or a fun appetizer. I promise, they’ll become a staple at your summer get-togethers!

Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need to create these delicious Grilled Shrimp & Pineapple Skewers. Make sure your shrimp are peeled and deveined, and your pineapple is cut into nice, bite-sized chunks. Trust me, the right ingredients make all the difference!

1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 pineapple, cut into chunks
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Skewers, soaked in water if wooden

It’s a simple list, but each ingredient plays a key role in creating that mouthwatering flavor. Make sure to have everything ready before you start grilling, and you’ll be set for a fantastic barbecue experience!

How to Prepare Grilled Shrimp & Pineapple Skewers

Alright, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of making these delicious Grilled Shrimp & Pineapple Skewers! I promise, once you follow these steps, you’ll be grilling like a pro in no time!

Preheat the Grill

First things first, you’ll want to preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This is super important! A hot grill ensures that your shrimp cook evenly while giving them those beautiful grill marks that we all love. So, crank it up and let it warm up while you prepare the rest!

Prepare the Marinade

Now, let’s whip up that marinade! In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, soy sauce, honey, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Give it a good stir! You want all those flavors to get to know each other, creating a scrumptious base for your shrimp and pineapple. I like to mix it really well, so every bite is packed with flavor!

Marinate the Shrimp and Pineapple

Once your marinade is ready, it’s time to add the shrimp and pineapple chunks. Toss them in the bowl and make sure they’re well-coated. This is where the magic happens! If you have a little extra time, let them marinate for about 30 minutes. It really intensifies the flavors and makes everything taste even better!

Assemble the Skewers

Now for the fun part—assembling the skewers! Grab your soaked skewers (if you’re using wooden ones) and start threading them. Alternate between shrimp and pineapple chunks for a colorful presentation. Not only does it look amazing, but the sweet and savory combo is just divine!

Grill the Skewers

Time to grill! Place the skewers on the preheated grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re done when the shrimp turn a lovely pink color and are cooked through. Don’t be afraid to peek at them; just be careful of the heat! It’s all about that perfect char without overcooking.

Serve and Enjoy

Once they’re done, take those skewers off the grill and serve immediately! I love to add a few lime wedges on the side for a zesty kick. It really elevates the flavors and makes everything pop! Enjoy these skewers fresh off the grill; trust me, they’ll disappear in no time!

Tips for Success

Want to nail these Grilled Shrimp & Pineapple Skewers? I’ve got some tried-and-true tips to ensure you get the best results every time! First off, if you’re using wooden skewers, don’t forget to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes. This little step will save you from the heartbreak of burned skewers—trust me, you don’t want that!

Next, marinating is key! If you can, let your shrimp and pineapple soak in that flavorful marinade for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors really infuse and makes every bite pop with deliciousness. But if you’re short on time, don’t stress—just make sure they’re coated well before grilling!

Also, when you’re grilling, keep an eye on the shrimp. They cook quickly, and nobody wants overcooked shrimp! Look for that lovely pink color and firm texture; that’s when you know they’re perfectly done. And finally, remember to serve them hot off the grill for the best taste and experience. You won’t regret it!

Variations

If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to mix up these Grilled Shrimp & Pineapple Skewers! Here are a few ideas to get those creative juices flowing:

Veggie Additions: Try adding bell peppers, red onions, or zucchini to your skewers. They grill beautifully and add a nice crunch and color!
Different Fruits: Swap out the pineapple for mango or peach chunks. They’ll caramelize on the grill and give you that sweet, juicy bite.
Spicy Twist: If you like a little heat, add some diced jalapeños to your skewers or sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the marinade. It’ll give your dish a delightful kick!
Coconut Marinade: For a tropical vibe, substitute coconut milk for the olive oil and add a splash of lime juice. It’s creamy and delicious!
Herb Infusion: Toss in some fresh herbs like cilantro or basil into your marinade for an aromatic twist. Fresh herbs really brighten up the dish!
Teriyaki Style: Swap the soy sauce for teriyaki sauce for a sweeter, more savory flavor profile. You can even add sesame seeds on top for an extra touch!

Don’t hesitate to mix and match! The beauty of these skewers is how versatile they can be. Each variation will bring a new flavor experience to your table, making every barbecue unique and exciting!

Nutritional Information

Alright, let’s talk about the nutritional side of these Grilled Shrimp & Pineapple Skewers! I know many of you like to keep an eye on what you’re eating, so here’s a typical breakdown for each skewer:

Serving Size: 1 skewer
Calories: 150
Fat: 4g
Saturated Fat: 0.5g
Unsaturated Fat: 3.5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Sugar: 5g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 15g
Sodium: 200mg
Cholesterol: 150mg

These skewers are not just delicious but also a great source of protein with a nice balance of carbs and healthy fats. Plus, they’re low in calories, making them a fantastic choice for a light summer meal or snack. Enjoy them guilt-free at your next barbecue!

FAQ Section

How do I store leftovers?

If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare because they’re so good!), just let the skewers cool down to room temperature. Then, pop them into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, you can either eat them cold or reheat them gently on the grill for a few minutes to warm them up. Just be careful not to overcook them, or they might get tough!

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Absolutely, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them completely before marinating. I usually place them in the fridge overnight or run them under cold water for a quick thaw. Once they’re thawed, pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture, then follow the recipe as usual. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as frozen shrimp might take a minute or so longer to cook through compared to fresh shrimp.

What dipping sauces pair well with these skewers?

Ooh, dipping sauces can really elevate your Grilled Shrimp & Pineapple Skewers! I love serving them with a zesty lime aioli or a sweet chili sauce—it adds an amazing kick! You could also try a classic garlic butter sauce for a rich flavor or a tangy mango salsa to complement the pineapple. And if you’re feeling adventurous, a spicy Sriracha mayo can give it a nice heat. The combination of flavors will make each bite even more delicious!

What to Serve with Grilled Shrimp & Pineapple Skewers

Now that you’ve got those delicious Grilled Shrimp & Pineapple Skewers ready to go, let’s talk about what to serve alongside them to create a fabulous, well-rounded meal! Trust me, pairing these skewers with the right sides and drinks can take your summer barbecue to the next level!

Fresh Green Salad: A light, refreshing salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette is the perfect complement. It adds a nice crunch and balances the sweetness of the skewers.
Coconut Rice: For a tropical vibe, serve your skewers over fluffy coconut rice. The creamy coconut flavor pairs beautifully with the grilled shrimp and pineapple!
Grilled Vegetables: Throw some zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus on the grill while you’re cooking the skewers. The smoky flavor adds depth to your meal and makes it even more colorful!
Coleslaw: A crisp, crunchy coleslaw with a zesty dressing can provide a nice contrast to the sweetness of the pineapple. Plus, it’s a classic barbecue side that everyone loves!
Chips and Salsa: For a fun appetizer, set out some tortilla chips with fresh salsa or guacamole. It’s a great way to kick things off while everyone waits for the skewers to finish grilling!
Cold Beverages: Don’t forget about drinks! A chilled white sangria or a refreshing cucumber mint lemonade would be perfect for washing down those skewers. If you’re feeling fancy, a light beer or a crisp rosé also pairs wonderfully!

Mix and match these suggestions to create a delightful spread that will impress your guests and make your barbecue unforgettable. Enjoy every bite!

Grilled Shrimp & Pineapple Skewers: 5 Flavorful Secrets

Author: Lisa
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Total Time: 23 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Grilling
Cuisine: American
Diet: Low Calorie

Print Recipe

Description

Delicious grilled shrimp and pineapple skewers for a summer barbecue.

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 pineapple, cut into chunks
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Skewers, soaked in water if wooden

Instructions

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
In a bowl, mix olive oil, soy sauce, honey, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Add shrimp and pineapple to the bowl and toss to coat.
Thread shrimp and pineapple onto skewers, alternating between them.
Place skewers on the grill and cook for 3-4 minutes per side or until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
Remove from grill and serve immediately.

Notes

Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
Marinate shrimp for 30 minutes for extra flavor.
Serve with lime wedges for added zest.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 skewer
Calories: 150
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 200mg
Fat: 4g
Saturated Fat: 0.5g
Unsaturated Fat: 3.5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 15g
Cholesterol: 150mg

Keywords: Grilled Shrimp & Pineapple Skewers

Spread the love