Spicy Grilled Shrimp with Pineapple Sauce Recipe

Get ready to meet your new favorite summer dish: Spicy Grilled Shrimp with Pineapple Sauce! It’s vibrant, a little bit fiery, and totally irresistible – the kind of recipe that shines at backyard cookouts or quick weeknight dinners. Imagine juicy, grill-charred shrimp topped with a punchy sweet-and-tangy pineapple salsa… if your mouth isn’t watering yet, just wait.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Spicy Grilled Shrimp with Pineapple Sauce is just how simple the ingredients are—each one plays a starring role in bringing bright flavor, color, and texture to the table. Let’s break down why you’ll want each one on your shopping list!

• 1 lb large shrimp (cooked and deveined): Shrimp cooks quickly and soaks up the spicy marinade, plus it looks stunning on skewers!
• 6 grilling skewers: Skewers are perfect for the grill and make serving a breeze—you can use metal or soaked wooden ones.
• 2 Tbsp coconut oil or butter: This adds richness and helps the spices cling to the shrimp while grilling for a luscious finish.
• 1/4 tsp cayenne powder: Just enough heat to wake up your taste buds, but adjust to your spice comfort level.
• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper: A burst of chili flake fire for that signature kick—sprinkle just before serving for best results.
• 1 lime: Lime juice ties everything together with a bright, zesty note right at the end.
• 2 Tbsp fresh cilantro (optional): A final pop of aromatic freshness over the shrimp and salsa (skip if you’re not a fan!).
• 6 grape tomatoes, minced: Tomatoes add juiciness and brilliant color to your easy pineapple salsa.
• 3/4 cup pineapple, minced: The pineapple brings a sweet but tangy flavor—don’t skip it, it’s the soul of the sauce!

Variations

One of the secrets behind the enduring appeal of Spicy Grilled Shrimp with Pineapple Sauce is how easy it is to personalize. Whether you want to mix up the spice level or swap in your favorite veggies, these variations will help make this dish truly your own.

• Mango Swap: Try substituting mango for pineapple in the salsa if you’re craving something extra tropical and juicy!
• Vegetarian Twist: Use cubes of halloumi or extra-firm tofu instead of shrimp for a plant-based grilling option packed with flavor.
• No Grill? No Problem: Roast your skewers in a hot oven or use a grill pan on the stove—still delicious and slightly charred.
• Extra Heat: Up the cayenne or add a dash of hot sauce to the oil before basting if you’re living for more spice.

How to Make Spicy Grilled Shrimp with Pineapple Sauce

Step 1: Prep the Grill and Shrimp

Start by preheating your grill to about 350°F, or medium-high heat. If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 15 minutes to prevent charring. Meanwhile, fully thaw your shrimp and pat them dry with paper towels—this helps them sear beautifully instead of steaming.

Step 2: Skewer and Season

Thread about 4-5 shrimp onto each skewer. In a small bowl, mix the coconut oil (or butter) with the cayenne powder. Brush this spicy mixture generously over both sides of the shrimp so every bite will be kissed by flavor and get a perfect sizzle on the grill.

Step 3: Grill to Perfection

Lay the shrimp skewers on the hot grill and cook for 3-5 minutes per side. You’ll know they’re done when they turn opaque and get those stunning grill marks. Try not to overcook—the shrimp should be plump and juicy inside. Remove them to a platter once they’re ready.

Step 4: Make the Pineapple Salsa

Combine your minced pineapple and minced grape tomatoes in a bowl. Give the mix a stir—this salsa comes together in seconds and brings so much brightness to your Spicy Grilled Shrimp with Pineapple Sauce.

Step 5: Assemble and Finish

Arrange your hot shrimp skewers on a serving plate. Top each skewer with the crushed red pepper, a generous squeeze of fresh lime juice, and (if using) a sprinkling of chopped cilantro. Spoon the pineapple salsa over the top and serve right away—you’ll want to dive in immediately!

How to Serve Spicy Grilled Shrimp with Pineapple Sauce

Garnishes

Finish your Spicy Grilled Shrimp with Pineapple Sauce with a flourish of chopped fresh cilantro and an extra squeeze of lime. If you want even more color, add a few thinly sliced red chilies or a sprinkle of thinly sliced green onions right on top for that pop of freshness and a little drama on the plate.

Side Dishes

For a meal that feels like a tropical getaway, serve these spicy shrimp skewers over coconut rice, with grilled corn on the cob, or alongside a crunchy cucumber salad. They’re also absolutely delicious tucked into warm tortillas for spicy shrimp tacos!

Creative Ways to Present

Try stacking the shrimp skewers upright in tall glasses for a bold appetizer, or arrange them over a platter lined with pineapple slices for a stunning (and edible!) centerpiece. Another fun idea: build shrimp and salsa mini skewers for party bites that disappear fast.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If your guests somehow leave you with leftovers, you can store the shrimp and pineapple salsa separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the salsa on top or on the side to avoid sogginess.

Freezing

While cooked shrimp can be frozen, their texture can soften once thawed—so if you do freeze, lay the shrimp flat in a single layer in a freezer bag for up to a month. Fresh pineapple salsa doesn’t freeze well, so make it fresh each time for the brightest flavors.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the shrimp gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or briefly in the microwave (in 20-second bursts) to avoid overcooking. Serve with a fresh batch of salsa for that just-made flavor!

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready for something fresh, exciting, and truly crowd-pleasing, Spicy Grilled Shrimp with Pineapple Sauce awaits! I hope you give it a try—one bite and you’ll see why this zesty, juicy, sweet-and-spicy recipe wins hearts (and disappears from the platter) every single time. Happy grilling!

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