Shrimp and Pineapple Skewers Recipe: Perfectly Grilled, Sweet & Savory
Shrimp and Pineapple Skewers are the perfect blend of juicy, savory shrimp and sweet, caramelized pineapple, all coated in a mouthwatering glaze. This recipe guides you step-by-step to achieve perfectly cooked skewers every time, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for cookouts, family dinners, or even a quick weeknight meal. Get ready to fire up the grill (or broiler!) for a dish that screams sunshine and good times.
Why You’ll Love This Shrimp Pineapple Skewer
- Incredible Flavor: The combination of sweet pineapple, savory shrimp, and a tangy glaze is irresistible.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this accessible for all skill levels.
- Perfect for Grilling: Gets that beautiful char and smoky flavor. Broiler option included!
- Quick Cooking: Shrimp cooks fast, making this a speedy main course.
- Visually Appealing: Colorful skewers that look as good as they taste!
Shrimp Pineapple Skewers Recipe: Ingredients You’ll Need
- Yields: Approx. 4 servings
- Prep time: 25 minutes
- Marinating time: 15-30 minutes
- Cook time: 6-10 minutes
Gather these simple ingredients for skewers bursting with flavor.
For the Skewers
- 1 lb Large Shrimp: (About 16-20 count per pound), peeled and deveined. Tail-on or off is your choice.
- 1 Fresh Pineapple: Peeled, cored, and cut into 1-inch chunks (about 2 cups worth).
- (Optional) 1 Red Bell Pepper: Cut into 1-inch pieces.
- (Optional) 1 Red Onion: Cut into 1-inch wedges.
For the Sweet & Savory Marinade/Glaze
- 1/3 cup Low-Sodium Soy Sauce: (Or tamari for gluten-free).
- 1/4 cup Pineapple Juice: Unsweetened works best.
- 2 tbsp Brown Sugar: Packed (light or dark).
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil: Or another neutral cooking oil.
- 1 tbsp Rice Vinegar: Or fresh lime juice for tang.
- 2 cloves Garlic: Finely minced.
- 1 tsp Fresh Ginger: Grated (or 1/2 tsp ground ginger).
- 1/4 tsp Red Pepper Flakes: (Optional) Adjust for desired heat.
- Salt and Black Pepper: To taste.
Shrimp Pineapple Skewers Recipe: Essential Equipment
- Skewers: Metal skewers are reusable and sturdy. If using wooden/bamboo skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes first.
- Mixing Bowls: For the marinade and tossing shrimp.
- Whisk: For combining the marinade ingredients smoothly.
- Grill or Broiler: Your heat source for cooking.
- Basting Brush: For applying the glaze during cooking.
How to Make Shrimp and Pineapple Skewers (Step-by-Step)
Follow these simple steps for delicious results.
1. Prepare the Marinade & Reserve Glaze
In a medium bowl, whisk together all marinade/glaze ingredients: soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, olive oil, rice vinegar (or lime juice), garlic, ginger, and optional red pepper flakes. Taste and season lightly with salt and pepper if needed. Crucial Step: Pour about 1/3 cup of this mixture into a separate small bowl and set aside – this will be your glaze for later.
2. Marinate the Shrimp Briefly
Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the larger bowl with the remaining marinade. Toss gently to coat. Cover and refrigerate for just 15-30 minutes. Do not over-marinate, as the acid can affect shrimp texture.
3. Soak Skewers & Prep Ingredients
If using wooden skewers, ensure they are soaking while the shrimp marinates. Prepare your pineapple and any optional vegetables by cutting them into uniform, 1-inch pieces.
4. Assemble Your Shrimp Skewers
Discard the marinade the raw shrimp was in. Thread the marinated shrimp, pineapple chunks, and optional vegetables onto your skewers. Alternate the ingredients for a balanced look and taste. Try piercing shrimp through both ends to keep them secure.
5. Grilling the Skewers (Recommended)
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F / 200°C). Clean and lightly oil the grill grates. Place skewers on the hot grill. Cook for approximately 3-5 minutes per side.
6. Broiling Instructions (Alternative Method)
Set an oven rack 4-6 inches from the broiler element and preheat the broiler on high. Line a baking sheet with foil and lightly grease it, or use a wire rack set inside the sheet. Arrange skewers on the sheet and broil for 3-5 minutes per side. Keep a close eye, as broilers cook quickly!
7. Glaze and Finish Cooking
During the last 2-3 minutes of cooking (grilling or broiling), brush the skewers generously on all sides with the reserved glaze (the portion you set aside earlier).
8. Rest and Serve
Cook until the shrimp is pink, opaque, and curled, and the pineapple/veggies are tender with slight caramelization (total cook time usually 6-10 minutes). Remove skewers from heat and let them rest for a minute or two before serving.
Tips for Perfect Shrimp and Pineapple Skewers
- Don’t Overcook: Shrimp cooks very fast! Remove from heat as soon as it’s opaque to keep it tender.
- Uniform Pieces: Cut pineapple and veggies to roughly the same size as the shrimp for even cooking.
- Soak Wooden Skewers: Prevents them from burning to a crisp.
- Oil Your Grates: Prevents sticking, especially important for the glaze.
- Use Large/Jumbo Shrimp: They hold up better on skewers and are less likely to overcook.
- Reserved Glaze Safety: Always use the reserved portion of the marinade for glazing during cooking, never the marinade that touched raw shrimp.
Serving Suggestions
These versatile skewers pair wonderfully with:
- Fluffy Coconut Rice or Quinoa
- A simple Green Salad
- Grilled Corn on the Cob
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes! Thaw frozen shrimp completely before marinating. Pat them very dry with paper towels before adding to the marinade for best results.
Can I make these skewers ahead of time?
You can assemble the skewers (without marinade) a few hours ahead and keep them covered in the fridge. Marinate the shrimp just before you plan to cook. Cooking is best done right before serving.
What other vegetables work well?
Zucchini, yellow squash, cherry tomatoes, and mushrooms are also great additions to these skewers.
Now you have everything you need to create this fantastic Shrimp and Pineapple Skewers recipe. Enjoy the process and the delicious, grilled results!
Latest Posts:
