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finished shrimp and pineapple skewers on a platter with char

Shrimp and Pineapple Skewers

These Shrimp and Pineapple Skewers are a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner made right on a cast iron grill pan. Juicy shrimp, sweet caramelized pineapple, and bold Jamaican jerk seasoning come together in under 25 minutes for a vibrant, family-friendly meal.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Jamaican
Calories: 238
Ingredients Equipment Method Video Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Marinade
For the Skewers:
  • 3 cups fresh pineapple chunks 1 inch pieces
  • 1 tbsp avocado oil for brushing the grill pan

Equipment

  • Cast iron grill pan: For achieving char marks and even heat indoors.
  • Mixing Bowl Used to mix and taste the marinade.
  • Metal skewers or wood skewers soaked in water: For threading shrimp and pineapple.
  • Tongs: For flipping skewers safely.
  • Microplane: For grating fresh garlic and zesting the lime.
  • Basting brush (optional): For lightly oiling the grill pan.

Method
 

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the avocado oil, lime juice, lime zest, grated garlic, Jamaican seasoning, honey, and salt. Taste the marinade and adjust seasoning to your preference if needed.
  2. Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss until coated. Let marinate for 15 to 20 minutes. Do not marinate longer or the lime will begin to break down the shrimp.
  3. Thread shrimp and pineapple onto skewers, repeating the pattern so each skewer has 3 to 4 shrimp and 3 to 4 pineapple chunks. Thread shrimp in a “C” shape so they stay secure and do not spin.
  4. Heat a cast iron grill pan over medium-high heat for 4 to 5 minutes. Lightly brush with avocado oil.
  5. Place the skewers onto the hot grill pan, leaving space between them. Cook for 2.5 to 3 minutes per side until the shrimp are pink and opaque and the pineapple has caramelized grill marks. Reduce heat to medium if they brown too quickly.
  6. Remove from the pan and serve immediately with lime wedges, chopped cilantro, and optional extra pineapple.

Video

Notes

  • If you don’t have The Spice Girl Kitchen Jamaican Seasoning: Use equal parts allspice, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and cayenne for a similar effect. Start with 1 teaspoon total, then adjust to taste.
  • Do not over-marinate the shrimp. The lime juice will begin to cook them if left too long.
  • Add red onion or bell pepper between the shrimp for extra color.
  • If shrimp stick to the pan, allow another 30 seconds before flipping. They naturally release once a light char forms.
  • Pineapple works best when cut into even 1 inch chunks so it caramelizes without burning.
  • Skewer Tips: If you're using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 20 to 30 minutes before threading. This prevents scorching and keeps them from snapping during cooking. Even on a cast iron grill pan (no open flame), dry skewers can still char where they touch the hot ridges, so a quick soak is still helpful. Metal skewers work too if you prefer.
  • Make this a sheet pan meal by roasting shrimp and pineapple together at 425°F for 8 to 10 minutes.
  • Nutrition (per serving, 4 servings): 238 calories, 7g fat, 14g carbs, 29g protein, 1g fiber. Nutrition information is an estimate. Actual values may vary based on specific ingredients and brands used.