Name: Grilled Shrimp and Pineapple Skewers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 53 min
Cuisine: American with Asian‑inspired flavors
Ingredients: ¼ cup soy sauce; 1 large lime, juiced (about ¼ cup lime juice); 1 Tbsp hot sauce (e.g., sriracha); ¼ cup brown sugar; 1 tsp garlic powder; ¼ tsp salt; ¼ tsp black pepper; 12 oz frozen X‑large shrimp (26–30 per pound), thawed, tail‑on; 2 cups pineapple chunks (about 340 g); 1 green bell pepper, cut into 1‑inch pieces; Wooden skewers (soaked in water for at least 30 minutes)

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Juicy grilled shrimp and sweet pineapple come together in this vibrant, savory-sweet dish with just a touch of heat. Perfectly marinated and grilled to caramelized perfection, these skewers make an easy, flavor-packed summer dinner or backyard BBQ favorite. Grilled Shrimp and Pineapple Skewers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this recipe balances tangy lime, sweet brown sugar, and spicy hot sauce to give every bite a bold punch of flavor. The shrimp stays tender and juicy, the pineapple gets those irresistible grill marks, and the bell pepper adds just the right crunch. Plus, it’s quick to throw together—ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute entertaining.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

¼ cup soy sauce
1 large lime, juiced (about ¼ cup lime juice)
1 Tbsp hot sauce (e.g., sriracha)
¼ cup brown sugar
1 tsp garlic powder
¼ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
12 oz frozen X‑large shrimp (26–30 per pound), thawed, tail-on
2 cups pineapple chunks (about 340 g)
1 green bell pepper, cut into 1‑inch pieces
Wooden skewers (soaked in water for at least 30 minutes)

directions

I preheat the grill to 375°F (190°C) and soak the wooden skewers for at least 30 minutes.
In a medium bowl, I whisk together soy sauce, lime juice, hot sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
I place the shrimp, pineapple, and bell pepper in a large Ziploc bag. I set aside ¼ cup of the marinade, then pour the rest into the bag. After sealing, I gently massage the ingredients to coat them evenly and marinate for 30 minutes.
I thread the shrimp, pineapple, and bell pepper onto the soaked skewers, alternating ingredients. I usually use 3 or 4 shrimp per skewer.
Once the grill is hot, I place the skewers on the grate and baste both sides with the reserved marinade.
I grill the skewers for about 3–4 minutes per side, just until the shrimp are opaque and firm and the pineapple is lightly caramelized. I take care not to overcook.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 3 servings, with about 2 skewers per person.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Total Time: 53 minutes (including marinating)

Variations

I sometimes swap out the sriracha for another hot sauce depending on what I have on hand, or skip it altogether when I want a milder version. For sweetness, I’ve also tried honey or maple syrup instead of brown sugar—both work beautifully. If I want to change things up, I toss in red bell peppers or red onions for a colorful twist.

storage/reheating

I store any leftover skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2–3 days. When reheating, I use a skillet over low heat or toss them back on the grill just until warmed through. I avoid microwaving since it can make the shrimp rubbery.

FAQs

What kind of shrimp should I use for skewers?

I prefer extra-large shrimp (26–30 per pound) because they’re easier to thread and hold up well on the grill without overcooking.

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Absolutely. I always go for fresh pineapple when I can—it’s sweeter and grills up beautifully. Just make sure the chunks are cut evenly.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, I often chop the pineapple and bell pepper ahead of time. I wait to marinate the shrimp until about 30 minutes before grilling to avoid over-marinating.

What can I use if I don’t have a grill?

I’ve had great results using a grill pan on the stovetop or even broiling the skewers in the oven for a few minutes on each side.

How spicy is this dish?

It has a mild to moderate heat depending on the hot sauce used. I adjust the amount to suit my taste or skip it if I want a completely mild version.

Conclusion

These grilled shrimp and pineapple skewers are one of my go-to recipes for warm weather and casual meals. They’re easy to make, packed with flavor, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether I’m cooking for family or hosting a BBQ, they never disappoint.

Grilled Shrimp and Pineapple Skewers