Grilled Shrimp Pineapple Skewers are the perfect summer meal—juicy shrimp paired with sweet pineapple chunks, all grilled to smoky perfection. With a simple marinade and quick cook time, this tropical-inspired dish is a crowd-pleaser for cookouts, BBQs, or a light dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Combines savory and sweet flavors with a tropical twist
- Quick and easy to prepare in under 30 minutes
- Perfect for grilling season or indoor grilling
- Great for appetizers or main dishes
- Customizable with your favorite veggies or spices
- High-protein and low-carb meal option
- Makes for a colorful, vibrant presentation
- Family-friendly and fun to eat
- Easy to scale for a crowd
- Works well with fresh or frozen shrimp
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Fresh pineapple chunks
- Olive oil
- Garlic, minced
- Soy sauce
- Honey or brown sugar
- Lime juice
- Salt and pepper
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
directions
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
- In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), lime juice, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
- Add the shrimp to the marinade and let sit for at least 15-20 minutes (or up to 1 hour for more 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 from grill and serve warm with a side of rice, salad, or grilled vegetables.
Servings and timing
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6-8 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Variations
- Add bell peppers, red onion, or zucchini for extra color and flavor
- Use a spicy marinade with sriracha or chili flakes for heat
- Try a coconut milk-based marinade for a creamier, tropical twist
- Substitute shrimp with chicken or tofu for dietary preferences
- Use teriyaki sauce instead of soy sauce for an Asian-inspired flavor
storage/reheating
Store any leftover skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
To reheat, remove the shrimp and pineapple from the skewers and warm in a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through. Avoid overcooking, as shrimp can become rubbery.
FAQs
How do I know when shrimp is fully cooked on the grill?
Shrimp is done when it turns pink and opaque, usually in 2-3 minutes per side.
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, just make sure to thaw and pat them dry before marinating.
What kind of pineapple should I use?
Fresh pineapple works best, but canned chunks (drained) can be used in a pinch.
Do I need to peel the shrimp before grilling?
Yes, peel and devein the shrimp for the best texture and flavor.
Can I make these skewers in the oven?
Yes, broil the skewers on a baking sheet for 4-5 minutes per side, watching closely.
How long should I marinate the shrimp?
15–20 minutes is enough, but you can go up to 1 hour for more flavor.
What sides go well with these skewers?
Rice, quinoa, grilled veggies, or a fresh green salad are great pairings.
Are these skewers good for meal prep?
They can be made ahead, but best enjoyed freshly grilled for optimal texture.
Can I grill the skewers indoors?
Yes, use a stovetop grill pan or an electric indoor grill.
Should I oil the grill grates before cooking?
Yes, to prevent the shrimp and pineapple from sticking.
Conclusion
Grilled Shrimp Pineapple Skewers are a vibrant, delicious way to enjoy the flavors of summer any time of year. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or looking for a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers a perfect balance of sweet and savory in every bite. Try it once, and it’s sure to become a favorite on your grilling menu.
Print
Grilled Shrimp Pineapple Skewers
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American, Tropical
Description
These grilled shrimp pineapple skewers are sweet, smoky, and super simple to make. Juicy shrimp and fresh pineapple chunks are marinated in a flavorful garlic-lime sauce, then grilled to perfection. Great for summer BBQs, weeknight dinners, or a light tropical meal anytime.
Ingredients
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1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off)
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2 cups fresh pineapple chunks
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1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces (optional)
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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2 tablespoons lime juice (fresh)
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2 garlic cloves, minced
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1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
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1 teaspoon chili powder
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1/4 teaspoon black pepper
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Wooden or metal skewers
Instructions
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Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 20 minutes if using to prevent burning.
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Marinate the shrimp: In a bowl, mix olive oil, lime juice, garlic, honey, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Add the shrimp and toss to coat. Let it marinate for 15–20 minutes.
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Assemble the skewers: Thread shrimp, pineapple chunks, and optional bell pepper pieces onto skewers, alternating as you go.
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Preheat grill to medium-high heat (around 375–400°F).
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Grill the skewers: Place them on the grill and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through. Pineapple should have light grill marks.
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Serve hot: Garnish with fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime, if desired.
Notes
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Don’t overcook the shrimp—they cook fast!
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Canned pineapple can be used in a pinch, but fresh gives the best flavor and texture.
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Add red onion or zucchini to the skewers for extra color and veggies.