Grilled Jerk Shrimp and Pineapple Skewers

By: CALVIN ROURKE

Published: October 01, 2025

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why make this recipe

Grilled Jerk Shrimp and Pineapple Skewers are a delightful treat for anyone who enjoys bold flavors and tropical vibes. This dish is perfect for summer barbecues or a fun weeknight dinner. The combination of spicy jerk seasoning with sweet, juicy pineapple creates a fantastic contrast that will impress your family and friends. Plus, it’s quick to make and full of healthy ingredients.

how to make Grilled Jerk Shrimp and Pineapple Skewers

Ingredients :

  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
  • 1 Scotch bonnet pepper, finely chopped (adjust based on heat preference)
  • 2 green onions, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon thyme, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon allspice
  • ¾ teaspoon nutmeg
  • ¾ teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon oil (preferably olive oil)
  • 2 tablespoons white vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon dark rum
  • Juice and zest of ½ orange
  • Juice and zest of 1 lime
  • Salt to taste
  • Pineapple chunks (for skewering)

Directions :

  1. In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil, white vinegar, soy sauce, dark rum, orange juice and zest, lime juice and zest, minced garlic, grated ginger, chopped Scotch bonnet, green onions, thyme, allspice, nutmeg, cinnamon, black pepper, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
  2. Add the shrimp to the marinade and toss to ensure each shrimp is evenly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
  3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
  4. Thread the marinated shrimp and pineapple chunks alternately onto skewers. If you use wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
  5. Place the skewers on the hot grill and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque, and the pineapple is slightly charred.
  6. Remove the skewers from the grill and serve immediately, perhaps with a side of rice or a fresh salad.

how to serve Grilled Jerk Shrimp and Pineapple Skewers

These skewers are best served fresh off the grill. You can enjoy them on their own or with sides like rice, a fresh salad, or grilled veggies. They also make a great appetizer or party snack!

how to store Grilled Jerk Shrimp and Pineapple Skewers

If you have leftovers, store the skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for up to 2 days. Reheat them on the grill or in the oven until warmed through.

tips to make Grilled Jerk Shrimp and Pineapple Skewers

  • For more flavor, marinate the shrimp for up to 2 hours.
  • Adjust the amount of Scotch bonnet pepper based on your heat preference.
  • If you cannot find Scotch bonnet pepper, you can use jalapeño or another mild chili.
  • Make sure to soak wooden skewers to prevent them from burning on the grill.

variation

You can also use chicken or beef instead of shrimp for the skewers. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as these meats will take longer to cook through. Additionally, feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers or zucchini to the skewers.

FAQs

1. Can I grill these skewers on a stovetop grill pan?

Yes! You can use a stovetop grill pan if you don’t have an outdoor grill. Just heat the pan over medium-high heat and follow the rest of the cooking instructions.

2. What can I serve with these skewers?

These skewers pair well with rice, salads, grilled vegetables, or even tortilla wraps.

3. How can I make these skewers spicier?

To add more heat, increase the amount of Scotch bonnet pepper, or add a dash of hot sauce to the marinade. You can also serve them with a spicy dipping sauce.

Print

Grilled Jerk Shrimp and Pineapple Skewers

A delightful treat of bold flavors featuring shrimp marinated in spicy jerk seasoning and paired with sweet pineapple. Perfect for summer barbecues!

Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 6 minutes
Total Time 36 minutes
  • By: Calvin Rourke
  • Category: DINNER
  • Difficulty: Not specified
  • Cuisine: Not specified
  • Yield: 4 Servings
  • Dietary: None

Ingredients

  • 01 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 02 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 03 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
  • 04 1 Scotch bonnet pepper, finely chopped
  • 05 2 green onions, finely chopped
  • 06 1 tablespoon thyme, chopped
  • 07 1 tablespoon allspice
  • 08 ¾ teaspoon nutmeg
  • 09 ¾ teaspoon cinnamon
  • 10 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 11 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 12 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 13 2 tablespoons white vinegar
  • 14 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 15 1 tablespoon dark rum
  • 16 Juice and zest of ½ orange
  • 17 Juice and zest of 1 lime
  • 18 Salt to taste
  • 19 Pineapple chunks (for skewering)

Instructions

Step 01

1. In a large bowl, mix together olive oil, white vinegar, soy sauce, dark rum, orange juice and zest, lime juice and zest, garlic, ginger, Scotch bonnet, green onions, thyme, allspice, nutmeg, cinnamon, black pepper, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt. Stir well.

Step 02

2. Add the shrimp to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours.

Step 03

3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.

Step 04

4. Thread marinated shrimp and pineapple onto skewers.

Step 05

5. Grill skewers for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until shrimp are pink and opaque, and pineapple is slightly charred.

Step 06

6. Serve immediately with sides like rice or salad.