BBQ Shrimp Skewers with Pineapple

Servings: 4 | Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 8 minutes | Total Time: 23 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on optional)
• 2 cups fresh pineapple chunks (about 1-inch pieces)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons lime juice (about 1 lime)
• 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for heat)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lime juice, honey (or brown sugar), smoked paprika, chili flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the shrimp: Add shrimp to the marinade, toss to coat, and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes (up to 1 hour for more flavor).
3. Assemble skewers: Thread shrimp and pineapple chunks alternately onto skewers, starting and ending with shrimp.
4. Grill: Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Place skewers on the grill and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, until shrimp are pink and opaque and pineapple is caramelized.
5. Serve: Transfer to a platter, garnish with chopped cilantro or parsley, and serve immediately.

Pineapple Mojito (with or without alcohol)

Servings: 2 | Prep Time: 5 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
• 8–10 fresh mint leaves
• 2 tablespoons lime juice (about 1 lime)
• 2 teaspoons sugar or honey (optional)
• 4 oz white rum (optional for cocktail version)
• Ice cubes
• Club soda or sparkling water, to top
• Pineapple wedges or mint sprigs, for garnish

Instructions

1. Muddle: In a shaker or sturdy glass, muddle pineapple chunks, mint leaves, lime juice, and sugar until pineapple releases its juice and mint is fragrant.
2. Mix: Add rum (if using) and ice, then shake or stir well.
3. Serve: Divide into two glasses filled with ice. Top each with club soda or sparkling water.
4. Garnish: Add a pineapple wedge or mint sprig. Serve immediately.