Shrimp and Pineapple Kabobs: Sweet grilled shrimp and pineapple are put in a marinade and tossed on the grill to create these amazing pineapple shrimp skewers! This SIX Ingredient dinner is healthy, easy, perfect for summer, and is inspired by Hawaii. Plus it's gluten-free friendly, low carb, and low fat.
Love healthy shrimp recipes? Also try my 25+ Healthy Shrimp Recipes including Honey Lime Shrimp Skewers, Blackened Shrimp, and Buffalo Shrimp Skewers.
Shrimp and Pineapple Kabobs
When I started Running in a Skirt, I never could have imagined how big a role food and recipes would end up becoming on my site like this Shrimp and Pineapple Kabobs recipe, which happens to be one of the most popular recipes every summer. I’ve always loved to eat, but my cooking skills came a little later in life. In fact, once in my twenties, I burned water. Yes, it can be done and this girl did it.
Sometimes I can’t believe how far I’ve come. But with food like these Pineapple Shrimp Skewers in front of me, the picture becomes clear. I’ve really loved creating recipes like this and especially love taking pretty pictures of the food. There is something so organic in thinking about a recipe, creating it from scratch, and serving it to my family. There is a joy and satisfaction in it that's hard to explain.
I feel lucky to be able to share these tasty recipes with you. These Shrimp and Pineapple Kabobs are ones I make again and again, year after year.
Why you'll love this Pineapple and Shrimp Skewers Recipe...
- This Pineapple Shrimp Skewers recipe is summer cooking at its finest.
- The entire dish is made with only SIX ingredients which include an easy-to-make marinade.
- This dish comes together fast, in less than 20 minutes.
- It's impressive enough for company, but easy enough to make for a weeknight family dinner.
- The flavors of the sweet, salty shrimp combine perfectly with the tropical pineapple. If you are needing a virtual trip to the islands of Hawaii through food... this is it.
Ingredients in these Shimp and Pineapple Kabobs
These Shrimp and Pineapple Kabobs could not be easier. They are made with simple ingredients that are easy to find. This includes the marinade for shrimp kabob recipes.
- Shrimp: Large shrimp or extra large shrimp works best for shrimp skewers. Large shrimp are 31/35 shrimp per pound, which equals about 8-9 shrimp per serving. Extra large shrimp are 26/30 a pound, which equals 6-7 shrimp a serving.
- Pineapple: Use fresh pineapple and not canned pineapple! To save time you could buy the pre-cut kind in the produce section.
- Soy Sauce: I always pick a low-sodium kind. If you are trying to make this gluten-free make sure to pick a gluten-free soy sauce. Since the soy sauce is so salty, you most likely will not need additional added salt to taste in this recipe, but you can add it to taste.
- Honey: Honey adds a lovely touch of sweetness. You can also substitute agave nectar.
- Balsamic Vinegar: Balsamic Vinegar adds richness and balances out the sweetness of the honey.
- Garlic: Because all shrimp needs garlic. 🙂
Unless you live to close the ocean and have great access to fresh seafood, I recommend buying frozen seafood and thawing it when you are ready to cook it. I always have a bag of quality frozen shrimp in my freezer for dinners like this one.
How to make shrimp kabobs with pineapple?
You can't find a simpler shisha kabobs recipe to try. Fire up the BBQ and let's get ready to make these shrimp!
- Thaw your shrimp and pat them dry.
- Use a cutting board to lay out your shrimp and pineapple in the order you are going to put them on the kabobs.
- Skewer the shrimp and pineapple chunks.
- Carefully put the skewers in a zip lock bag with all the ingredients for the marinade. Allow to marinate in the fridge for 10-15 minutes. Don't over marinade the skewers or they will turn mushy.
- Put the shrimp on the grill and brush on the extra marinade. Grill on medium and cook for 5-8 minutes, flipping once. They are done when the shrimp turn opaque and just start to curl.
What's the Grill Temperature for Shrimp Kabobs?
If you are wondering what's the grill temperature for shrimp kabobs... I suggest medium to medium-high heat. That's about 400 degrees.
How To Cook Shrimp Kabobs in the Oven
If an outdoor grill is not an option for you or you don't want to mess with it, these can also be cooked in the oven. Here's how to do it.
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.
- Line a baking sheet with foil and spray with cooking spray.
- Bake for 3-4 minutes on each side just until the shrimp turn pink and start to curl.
Pro Tips for Making Shrimp & Pineapple Kabobs
- If you are using wooden skewers or kabobs soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to keep them from burning on the grill.
- Cook your shrimp for just a few minutes on each side. When they are done with they start to turn pink and curl. Don't overcook the shrimp.
- Cold Shrimp Skewers with Pineapple? YES... these can be served hot or cold!
Variations
I love this Shrimp and Pineapple Skewers as written, but here are some fun variations.
- Mix Up the Protein: You can also make these with salmon or chicken.
- Add Vegetables: You can add red onion or red bell peppers to the pineapple skewers.
- Add Citrus: You can add some fresh lemon or lime juice at the end.
- Make it Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce.
- Add Ginger: Add some fresh ginger for another fun flavor.
FAQ
Storage & Leftovers
Store any leftovers of Shrimp and Pineapple skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can prep the skewers and the sauce ahead of time, but don't leave the shrimp sitting in the marinade to prep for more than 10 minutes or so because the acid will break down the shrimp and make them rubbery.
Freezing
I don't recommend freezing these.
What to Serve with Shrimp and Pineapple Kabobs?
This Shrimp and Pineapple Kabobs recipe can be a simple appetizer or an entire meal. If you are eating them as a meal try this:
- Simple Salad
- Vegetable Skewers
- Roasted Potatoes
- Coconut Rice
- Greek Yogurt Potato Salad
- Cheesy Grilled Potatoes in Foil
- Grilled Zucchini in Foil
- Cilantro Lime Coleslaw
- Healthy Broccoli Slaw
- Grilled Asparagus in Foil
- Grilled Carrots
Shrimp and Pineapple Kabobs
This delicious Shrimp and Pineapple kabobs recipe has me reflecting on how far I’ve come and how much I love this blog. I may not ever have envisioned this life or planned for it. But it is pretty darn awesome.
Thanks for coming along for the ride.
And oh yeah, please try these Shrimp Pineapple Kabobs. They are amazing. The hubs already requested I make them again 🙂
More Easy Shrimp Recipes
- 25+ Healthy Shrimp Recipes
- Grilled Shrimp with Avocado Dipping Sauce
- Cajun Shrimp Burgers
- Honey Lime Shrimp Kabobs
- No Clean Up Sheet Pan Shrimp Fajitas
- BBQ Shrimp Kabobs
If you make this Shrimp and Pineapple Skewers recipe, I’d love to hear what you think! Leave a comment and a star rating ★ below. Make sure to follow me on Instagram, Pinterest, and Facebook too!
Shrimp and Pineapple Skewers
Ingredients
- 18 large shrimp, peeled & deveined (21-30 count or larger)
- 12 fresh pineapple pieces, cut 1 inch chunks
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
- ¼ cup honey
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- 6 wooden skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Instructions
- Lay out the shrimp and pineapple on a cutting board.
- Thread the pineapple and shrimp on the skewers.
- In a large and strong zipper plastic bag, mix the soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, honey and pepper.
- Add the skewers into the bag, careful not to puncture the bag. Mix the marinade around the pineapple and shrimp.
- Allow the bag to marinate in the fridge 10 minutes. Don't leave it longer because it can break down the shrimp.
- When ready to cook, heat the grill to medium heat.
- Remove the kabobs from the bag and grill for 5-8 minutes or until shrimp start to curl and turn pink. Flip once. Do not overcook!
Notes
You may need to double bag the kabobs to prevent the skewers from poking through the bag.
This served two hungry adults with additional sides. It's 183 calories for three skewers and 61 calories a skewer. This recipe also works great as an appetizer and even served cold. To make this gluten-free use a gluten-free soy sauce. Storage & Leftovers Store any leftovers of Shrimp and Pineapple skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can prep the skewers and the sauce ahead of time, but don't leave the shrimp sitting in the marinade to prep for more than 10 minutes or so because the acid will break down the shrimp and make them rubbery. Freezing I don't recommend freezing these.
Nutrition
Pin for later!
Madelyn says
Recipe sounds delicious. Will be trying it soon. Any suggestions for serving these cold?
JulieWunder says
Thank you! I would just let them chill in the fridge after making them. Serve that day or the day after. enjoy!
Cathleen says
This combo was so good!! I can't get enough! Thank you so much for sharing this recipe, I am going to be making it all summer long!
Kathryn says
Shrimp and pineapple make such a great combo! We love these kabobs and can't stop making them. They are so easy too 🙂
Jacqueline Debono says
We love these shrimp and pineapple kabobs! They are so easy to make and super delicious. I've made them 3 times already this summer!
Lisa says
So fresh and delicious! I added a side of white rice and salad. Dinner was served quick!!
DK says
I love grilled pineapple recipes! This one was perfect for our backyard bbq this past weekend and we had a blast making them!
Adriana says
This is such a festive meal. The shrimps and the pineapple go perfectly together too. Summer isn't over until you try these kebabs. I did and my family loved the meal.
veenaazmanov says
This is such a perfect party platter option. I love the combination of Shrimps and Pineapple and all the yummy flavors infused in it. Looks tempting.
Leslie says
This is literally the perfect summer recipe! I love that you only have to grill these for 5-8 minutes! So perfect for a quick dinner idea!
Yu says
Shrimp and pineapple, what a delicious combination! Six skewers were gone in a second! I need to make a bigger batch next time. We love this recipe!
Mikayla says
We made these for our BBQ last weekend and loved them. Something about the grilled sweet pineapple with the perfectly seasoned shrimp was just perfect!
Kathy A. Toomey says
I made your recipe. It was delicious! However, I believe skewing the shrimp with the pineapple cause the shrimp to break down. My marinade was only on 10 mins, so it must have been to acid in the pineapple. Separate skewers next time.
Maureen Hamilton says
Loved it. Can you reuse the marinade?
JulieWunder says
Since it was soaked in the raw seafood, I would not resuse it!
Amy Gorin says
Even though fall is in the air, I could eat grilled pineapple anytime of year!
Erin @ Vitality Vixens says
I love grilled pineapple & grilled shrimp, but have never had them as a kabob! Yum! Thanks for sharing
Deborah Brooks says
My husband really loved this recipe! We will be making it again soon
Stephanie says
Making this tonight, but wanted to point out that soy sauce is generally made with wheat, soybeans, salt and water (and therefore not gluten free). There are some gluten free varieties, but you might want to note this in the ingredients list if claiming the recipe is gluten free. I think most folks suffering from Celiac or gluten sensitivity would know, but just thought I would mention it.
JulieWunder says
Yes! My mistake for the oversight. I made some notes of that in the recipe. Thank you.
Angela Campos says
What a simple, yet delicious combo! I love pineapple and I can't wait to make these delicious 5 star kabobs again!!!
Natalie says
What a lovely recipe. Sounds so delicious and light, so easy to make. I must give this a try. I love flavor combo.
Rachel says
Second shrimp kabob recipe I've seen today! Must be a sign!! YUM!
Deborah Brooks says
Grilled pineapple is so good! We love to make our shrimp this way as well. Looks fantastic
carrie says
it's too cold to grill lol if i were to bake these, how long and what temp do you think would be best??
JulieWunder says
You could do 400 for 4-6 minutes or until the shrimp just start to turn pink and curl. I'd keep the light on and keep an eye on them. Enjoy!
Miriam says
How long do you cook them on the grill and at what temperature?
Julie says
These look delicious! What side dishes did you make to go with it?
JulieWunder says
Since it has the veggies already in it, you could just do a whole grain roll. Or a nice quinoa or potato. I cooked the Parmesan Potato Wedges the same night and served them with it.----> https://www.runninginaskirt.com/oven-baked-parmesan-garlic-potato-wedges-recipe/
Ash- says
the Honey doesnt say how much you should put in, there is no measurement. did you use Tablespoon? or cup?
JulieWunder says
It's a 1/4 cup. Thanks for letting me know about the issue. I hope you enjoy them- they are so good!
Bob says
Found this on Pinterest and going to try it this week. Hint: Use a pair of kitchen shears to cut the point off of the skewers after skewering the kabobs and you won't have to worry about them poking through the bag.
JulieWunder says
That is a great idea! Big duh moment on my part. 🙂
Dana says
Is there a reason you can't marinate the shrimp/pineapple before skewering them?
JulieWunder says
Nope! I just thought it was easier to skewer them before they were in the sticky marinate! And then they are ready to go on the grill faster. 🙂 You can do it the other way though.
Miz Helen says
A great combination for your awesome Kabob! Hope you are having a great day and thanks so much for sharing with Full Plate Thursday.
Come Back Soon!
Miz Helen
JulieWunder says
Thanks Miz Helen! I always appreciate your comments and support.
Carlee says
Oh yum! These look amazing!
JulieWunder says
Thank you Carlee! Great to see you today!
Sue @ This Mama Runs for Cupcakes says
This looks amazing! Shrimp and pineapple two of my favorite foods and I think the boys would even love them! Too bad I don't have a grill :/
JulieWunder says
Doh! Mr. Cupcake needs to take care of that! Or is it an urban living issue? You could totally George Forman these 🙂
Nicole @ Fitful Focus says
This sounds like such a good combo! I have yet to grill fruit this summer, and I need to get on that!
JulieWunder says
Oh man!!! Yes you need too!! One of my favorite parts of the season.
Jess @hellotofit says
And now I am really craving some shrimp ;). Looks delicious, Julie! So cool that you've been blogging for three years. Looks like you're on a good path!
JulieWunder says
Thanks Jess! Always trying to find my way!
Jamie says
Great recipe. My mom will love this!
JulieWunder says
Thanks Jamie!
Emilie says
YUM. These look so good! I love your recipe posts. Shrimp and pineapple are perfect together. Thank you for sharing!
JulieWunder says
Thank you Emilie! Great to see you back!
Stacie @ SimplySouthernStacie says
Two of my favorite foods! I am totally going to have my dad grill these for dinner one night next week.
JulieWunder says
You should! Let me know how it turns out!
Deborah @ Confessions of a Mother Runner says
I don't eat shrimp but my kids would love these!
JulieWunder says
Even just the marinated pineapple is kind of awesome 🙂
Debbie Ross says
I can't wait to try this yummy recipe, Julie. It sounds absolutely wonderful! Thanks for all the great recipes and uplifting posts you provide.
JulieWunder says
Thank you Debbie! Great to see you today!
Susie @ SuzLyfe says
I'm so glad that you are doing something that you love. And I happen to love both grilled shrimp and grilled pineapple, so love for all!
JulieWunder says
Thanks Susie! It's a yummy combo!
Heather @Fit n Cookies says
I love shrimp. It's one of my favorite seafoods so these are for sure high on my list to make! I'm not a pineapple fan but I can just ignore that part 😉 Hope you have a great day, Julie!
JulieWunder says
haha! The marinade the shrimp alone would be tasty too!
Blane Sherer says
It certainly makes sense that you would be reflective just after your one year anniversary of leaving WLOS. I have enjoyed watching you grow in your skills with your recipes and presentation. You do a great job of expressing how much you are loving what you are doing without it coming across that you are trying to do that. Your blog is so naturally you. You are doing AWESOME !!
JulieWunder says
Thank you so much! I appreciate your kind words!