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Flavorful Tropical Shrimp & Pineapple Skewers

tropical shrimp pineapple skewers - featured image

These skewers combine juicy pineapple chunks and citrus-marinated shrimp grilled to perfection, delivering a sweet, tangy, and smoky flavor perfect for sunny days and casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (wild-caught if possible)
  • 1 fresh pineapple, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks (or about 2 cups pre-cut pineapple)
  • Metal or bamboo skewers (soaked if bamboo)
  • 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
  • 2 tablespoons honey or agave syrup
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped (optional garnish)
  • Extra lime wedges (optional garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the marinade by whisking together lime juice, honey, minced garlic, smoked paprika, ground cumin, red pepper flakes (if using), olive oil, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl.
  2. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the marinade, toss gently to coat, cover, and refrigerate for 15-20 minutes.
  3. Cut fresh pineapple into 1-inch chunks. If using bamboo skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
  4. Thread shrimp and pineapple alternately onto skewers, leaving space between pieces for even cooking.
  5. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (about 400°F/200°C).
  6. Grill skewers for 2-3 minutes per side until shrimp are pink and opaque and pineapple is caramelized and softened.
  7. Remove skewers from heat, sprinkle with chopped cilantro and squeeze extra lime over if desired, then serve immediately.

Notes

Avoid over-marinating shrimp to prevent rubbery texture; marinate 15-20 minutes only. Soak bamboo skewers for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning. Flip skewers gently and only once or twice. Shrimp are done when pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Pineapple should be caramelized but still juicy. Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 2 days and can be reheated gently.

Nutrition

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