Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before marinating. Excess moisture will dilute your marinade and prevent those beautiful grill marks from forming. Thawing in the refrigerator overnight works best, but you can also place them in a colander under cool running water if you're in a hurry.

What if I don't have a grill?

No grill? No problem! These skewers turn out wonderfully under a broiler. Place them on a foil-lined baking sheet, about 4 inches from the heat source, and broil for 2-3 minutes per side. You can also use a grill pan on the stovetop – just heat it until it's screaming hot before adding your skewers.

Is jerk seasoning too spicy for kids?

Traditional jerk seasoning can pack quite a punch! For a family-friendly version, look for mild jerk marinade or make your own with reduced scotch bonnet/habanero peppers. You can also reserve some shrimp without marinade and just brush them with a mixture of honey, lime, and a tiny pinch of the spices for those with sensitive palates.

Can I make these skewers with canned pineapple?

Fresh pineapple definitely gives the best results since it holds its shape better on the grill. However, if you're in a pinch, you can use canned pineapple chunks in juice (not syrup). Just drain them very well and pat them dry before skewering. They'll be a bit softer but still delicious!

Grilled Jerk Shrimp and Pineapple Skewers Recipe

Description

This recipe brings a tropical twist to your regular shrimp skewers! Featuring juicy shrimp marinated in a flavorful jerk marinade and caramelized pineapple, these skewers are perfect for BBQs or summer dinners. Simple to prepare, yet bursting with bold and tangy flavors, this will become a favorite in no time.

Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Skewers

1 pound (20-25 or 16-20) shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 slices pineapple, cut into 1/2 inch pieces

For the Marinade

1/2 cup jerk marinade

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Instructions

Marinate the Shrimp
Place the shrimp in a bowl and pour half of the jerk marinade over them. Toss the shrimp to ensure they are evenly coated, then cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid. Let the shrimp marinate in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes, or up to overnight for a stronger flavor.
Assemble the Skewers
Once the shrimp have marinated, thread them onto skewers, alternating with pieces of pineapple. Aim to leave a little bit of space between each piece to ensure even cooking.
Grill the Skewers
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are opaque and fully cooked through. Rotate the skewers for even cooking and to give the pineapple a nice caramelized char.
Serve and Enjoy
Remove the skewers from the grill and serve them immediately. Pair with a fresh salad, rice, or your favorite side dish for a complete meal.

Notes

If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill.
You can use fresh or canned pineapple for this recipe. Fresh pineapple typically has a better texture when grilled.
Jerk sauces vary in spiciness—taste your marinade first and adjust as needed.
If grilling outdoors isn’t an option, you can use a grill pan on your stovetop to achieve similar results.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 150
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 400mg
Fat: 2g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Unsaturated Fat: 1g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 9g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 20g
Cholesterol: 165mg