Grilled Shrimp & Pineapple Skewers

There’s something undeniably summery about the mix of flame-kissed shrimp and sweet grilled pineapple. These skewers bring the magic of tropical flavors together with the zing of lime and warmth of fresh ginger, creating a dish that’s light, vibrant, and perfect for outdoor dining. Whether served over coconut rice, paired with a crisp salad, or tucked into a build-your-own summer roll board, this recipe offers versatile deliciousness. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner yet bold and beautiful enough for your next backyard gathering. Bring the island vibes to your grill with this simple yet flavor-packed recipe.

Full recipe:

Ingredients:

• 24 wild-caught jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined

• ½ tsp kosher salt

• ¼ tsp white pepper

• 1 tsp grated fresh ginger

• Zest and juice of 1 lime

• 3 tbsp olive oil

• 24 chunks of fresh pineapple (about 1-inch pieces)

• 12 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for 10 minutes

Directions:

1. Soak bamboo skewers in water for at least 10 minutes to prevent burning.

2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime zest and juice, salt, white pepper, and grated ginger.

3. Add shrimp to the marinade, toss gently, and let sit for 15 minutes.

4. Thread 3 shrimp and 3 pineapple chunks alternately onto each skewer.

5. Preheat grill to medium-high and lightly oil the grates.

6. Grill skewers for 2–3 minutes per side, or until shrimp are pink and opaque and pineapple is slightly charred.

7. Finish with extra lime zest and a spritz of lime juice. Serve warm with rice bowls, salads, or summer rolls.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 5 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: Approx. 185 kcal per serving | Servings: 4 servings

A Taste of Summer: Grilled Shrimp & Pineapple Skewers

When the grill is hot and the air is thick with the scent of charcoal and citrus, you know summer is in full swing. Few dishes capture that warm-weather vibe quite like Grilled Shrimp & Pineapple Skewers. This vibrant, tropical-inspired dish balances smoky, juicy shrimp with sweet, caramelized pineapple for a flavor-packed bite that’s fresh, satisfying, and incredibly easy to make.

If you’re looking for a healthy, crowd-pleasing recipe that looks as good as it tastes, this one is for you. Not only is it bursting with flavor, but it’s also naturally gluten-free, high in protein, low in fat, and comes together in just 25 minutes from start to finish.

The Origin of a Tropical Favorite

This dish draws inspiration from Pacific Island and Southeast Asian flavors—places where grilling fresh seafood and fruit is part of the culinary identity. Grilled pineapple is particularly beloved in Hawaiian cuisine, while shrimp skewers marinated with citrus, ginger, and pepper are common in Vietnamese and Thai street food.

By combining these elements, Grilled Shrimp & Pineapple Skewers offer a cross-cultural flavor experience. You get the umami richness of shrimp, the sweetness of pineapple, and the brightness of lime and ginger in one perfectly balanced bite.

Why Grilled Shrimp & Pineapple Skewers Are So Popular

There’s a reason this recipe is a go-to during the warmer months. It’s quick, simple, and visually stunning. But beyond that, it hits all the flavor notes your palate craves—salty, sweet, spicy, and citrusy.

Let’s break down the appeal:

• Simplicity: The marinade uses pantry staples—olive oil, lime juice, salt, white pepper, and ginger—but creates a deep, flavorful base that enhances the shrimp’s natural sweetness.
• Texture: You’ll enjoy the contrast between firm, succulent shrimp and the soft, juicy pineapple that caramelizes beautifully on the grill.
• Versatility: Serve these skewers as a main dish with rice, stuff them into tacos, or add them to a salad. They’re also amazing as part of a summer roll platter or beachside picnic.

The Nutritional Benefits of Shrimp and Pineapple

If you’re looking to eat cleaner or build meals with balanced macronutrients, this dish delivers.

Shrimp is one of the healthiest sources of lean protein. A 3-ounce serving contains about 20 grams of protein and only 84 calories, with almost no fat. Shrimp is also rich in selenium, iodine, and vitamin B12.

Pineapple, on the other hand, is an excellent source of vitamin C, manganese, and antioxidants. It aids digestion thanks to its natural enzymes (like bromelain) and adds a satisfying sweetness without needing added sugar.

Together, they make a high-protein, low-fat meal that supports immune health, muscle growth, and digestive wellness—without compromising on flavor.

Grilling Tips for Perfect Skewers

To really make the most of this recipe, proper grilling technique is essential. Here are a few expert tips to help you elevate your shrimp & pineapple skewers:

• Soak your bamboo skewers in water for at least 10 minutes before grilling. This prevents them from burning.
• Use wild-caught shrimp if possible. They tend to have better texture and flavor than farmed varieties.
• Don’t over-marinate the shrimp. Unlike chicken or beef, shrimp only need about 15 minutes to absorb the marinade. Any longer and the acid from the lime juice can start to break down the proteins, making them mushy.
• Preheat your grill and brush it lightly with oil before cooking to prevent sticking and ensure even searing.
• Grill over medium-high heat for no more than 2–3 minutes per side. Shrimp cook quickly—when they curl and turn opaque, they’re done.

Creative Serving Ideas

This dish is versatile and can be adapted into various meal formats depending on the occasion. Here are some creative ways to serve your skewers:

• Tropical rice bowls: Serve the grilled shrimp and pineapple over coconut jasmine rice with avocado slices and chopped herbs like cilantro or mint.
• Summer tacos: Remove the shrimp and pineapple from the skewers and load them into grilled corn tortillas with slaw, crema, and a splash of hot sauce.
• Salad topping: Add the grilled skewers on top of a bed of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a light lime vinaigrette.
• As an appetizer: Serve smaller skewers as a finger-food option at your next BBQ or backyard gathering.
• Build-your-own summer rolls: Include these skewers as part of a DIY summer roll platter, complete with rice paper, fresh vegetables, and dipping sauces.

Why This Dish is a Crowd-Pleaser

Whether you’re feeding picky eaters, seafood lovers, or health-conscious guests, this dish offers something for everyone:

• It’s gluten-free, dairy-free, and can easily be made paleo or Whole30-friendly.
• It’s fast to prepare, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or last-minute entertaining.
• It looks gorgeous, with vibrant yellow pineapple and pink shrimp that char beautifully on the grill.
• It can be made ahead—you can marinate the shrimp and prep the skewers up to 12 hours in advance, then grill when ready.

This combination of convenience, visual appeal, and flavor is why these skewers are on repeat all summer long in many households.

Ingredient Substitutions and Add-Ons

Want to switch it up or make this recipe your own? Here are a few ideas:

• Swap the protein: If shrimp isn’t your thing, try scallops, chicken, or even tofu for a plant-based option.
• Add veggies: Thread in bell peppers, red onions, or cherry tomatoes for extra color and texture.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of chili flakes or a drizzle of sriracha into the marinade for heat.
• Try different fruit: Mango, peach, or even watermelon chunks make fun variations to pineapple.

Meal Prep and Storage Tips

If you’re planning ahead or want to enjoy leftovers, here’s what you need to know:

• Storage: Cooked skewers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store them in an airtight container.
• Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet or microwave, though keep in mind shrimp can become rubbery if overcooked during reheating.
• Freezing: It’s best to freeze raw shrimp and pineapple separately if prepping in advance. Do not freeze cooked skewers, as the texture will suffer.

Pairing Suggestions

To round out your meal, consider pairing these skewers with:

• Side dishes: Cilantro-lime rice, grilled corn salad, or Thai cucumber salad.
• Drinks: A chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light tropical cocktail like a mojito or pineapple margarita.
• Sauces: Serve with a honey-lime glaze, spicy peanut sauce, or even a mango salsa for an extra flavor boost.

Conclusion

Grilled Shrimp & Pineapple Skewers are more than just a delicious summer recipe—they’re a celebration of fresh ingredients, vibrant flavors, and effortless cooking. With a short ingredient list, quick prep time, and endless versatility, they’re perfect for weeknight meals, backyard BBQs, or even elegant dinner parties.

Whether you’re serving them over rice, inside tacos, or straight from the stick, these skewers bring bold, tropical flavor to your plate in under 30 minutes. Once you try them, they’ll become a go-to in your summer recipe rotation.

So fire up the grill, grab some juicy pineapple and succulent shrimp, and bring the taste of the tropics to your next meal.