When warm weather arrives and the air fills with the aroma of sizzling food, there’s nothing quite as satisfying as a recipe that’s quick, flavorful, and visually appealing. These Sweet and Spicy Shrimp Skewers fit the bill perfectly. With only seven simple ingredients, you can create a dish that bursts with bold flavor, showcases bright colors, and delivers that irresistible char-grilled taste. Whether you’re planning a casual weeknight dinner, a laid-back weekend cookout, or a summer party with friends, this recipe from Louisiana Cookin is sure to win over seafood lovers.
The beauty of this dish is in its balance—sweet, juicy pineapple and naturally sweet cherry tomatoes pair perfectly with shrimp, while a glaze of Louisiana cane syrup, Creole mustard, and hot sauce adds a sweet-heat kick. The result? Tender, smoky shrimp with a tangy-spicy glaze that keeps you reaching for “just one more skewer.”
Ingredients:
- 1 pound peeled and deveined large fresh shrimp, tails left on for presentation
- 10 metal skewers (or pre-soaked wooden skewers if preferred)
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes
- 1 large fresh pineapple, cored and cut into 1-inch pieces
- ¼ cup cane syrup (Steen’s Cane Syrup is a Louisiana favorite)
- 2 tablespoons Creole mustard (Zatarain’s or similar)
- 2 tablespoons hot sauce (Crystal or Tabasco work well)
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
Directions:
- 1. Spray your grill rack with a nonflammable cooking spray to help prevent sticking. Preheat your grill to 350°F for even cooking. If using charcoal, allow the coals to burn down until covered with a thin layer of gray ash before cooking.
- 2. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the cane syrup, Creole mustard, hot sauce, and olive oil until smooth and fully blended. This will be your sweet-and-spicy glaze. Set aside.
- 3. Thread the shrimp, cherry tomatoes, and pineapple chunks alternately onto skewers, creating a colorful pattern. Be sure to leave a little space between each piece so they cook evenly.
- 4. Place the skewers directly on the grill. Cook for about 2 to 3 minutes per side, turning once, until the shrimp turn pink and slightly opaque, and the tomatoes and pineapple have light grill marks.
- 5. Remove from heat and immediately brush each skewer with the prepared glaze. Serve while warm for the best flavor and texture.
Side Dish Suggestions:
These Sweet and Spicy Shrimp Skewers can stand alone as the main attraction, but pairing them with complementary sides creates a complete meal. Try serving them with:
- Coconut rice for a tropical flair that complements the pineapple.
- Grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus for added freshness.
- A crisp mango and avocado salad tossed with lime juice for a bright, tangy contrast.
- Buttered French bread or a crusty baguette to soak up any extra glaze.
- For a true backyard feast, add a Creole corn salad or classic Louisiana potato salad.
This recipe’s success lies in the simple but strategic combination of flavors working in perfect harmony. The cane syrup brings a deep, molasses-like sweetness that pairs naturally with fresh, tender shellfish. Creole mustard adds tang and texture, while the hot sauce cuts through the richness with just enough spice to wake up your taste buds and keep you reaching for more. The pineapple caramelizes beautifully on the grill, intensifying its natural sweetness, while the cherry tomatoes soften into juicy, flavor-packed bursts. Together, these ingredients create a balanced, satisfying bite every single time. If you’ve been looking for a reason to dust off your grill and embrace the season, this is it. The next time you’re in the mood for shrimp, pineapple, and a glaze that hits every note—sweet, tangy, spicy, and savory—make these skewers the star of your menu.
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