Grilled Shrimp and Pineapple Skewers over Coconut Rice

These Grilled Shrimp and Pineapple Skewers over Coconut Rice are perfect for any night of the week! This delicious dish combines the sweetness of pineapple with the savory flavor of shrimp, all served on a bed of creamy coconut rice. Ideal for family dinners or outdoor gatherings, these skewers are not only easy to prepare but also packed with tropical flavors that will transport you to a beach paradise.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With a total time of just 55 minutes, this meal is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of Sweet Baby Ray’s Honey Teriyaki Marinade, shrimp, and pineapple creates a delightful taste sensation.
• Versatile Serving Options: These skewers can be served as an entrée or as fun appetizers at parties.
• Crowd-Pleaser: The balance of sweet and savory makes this dish enjoyable for both kids and adults alike.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein from shrimp and vitamins from fresh pineapple, this meal is nutritious too!

Tools and Preparation

To make these Grilled Shrimp and Pineapple Skewers over Coconut Rice, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Skewers (metal or soaked wooden)
• Pot for rice
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Provides that perfect charred flavor to the shrimp and pineapple.
• Skewers: Help to easily grill the ingredients together, ensuring even cooking.
• Pot for rice: A good pot helps in evenly cooking coconut rice to achieve that desired creamy texture.

Ingredients

These Grilled Shrimp and Pineapple Skewers over Coconut Rice are an easy meal for any night of the week!

For the Skewers

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• Sweet Baby Ray’s Honey Teriyaki Marinade
• 1 lb fresh pineapple, cut into 1-inch chunks

For the Coconut Rice

• 1 cup long grain rice, uncooked
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 1 cup water
• (optional) chopped cilantro for garnish

How to Make Grilled Shrimp and Pineapple Skewers over Coconut Rice

Step 1: Marinate the Shrimp

Place shrimp in a large bowl and cover with Sweet Baby Ray’s Honey Teriyaki Marinade. Toss to coat well. Marinate for 30 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Coconut Rice

While the shrimp is marinating, prepare the Coconut Rice:
1. In a pot, bring together rice, coconut milk, and water.
2. Once it reaches a boil, reduce heat to simmer.
3. Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes or until rice is tender. Keep warm until serving.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This will ensure that your skewers cook evenly.

Step 4: Assemble the Skewers

Thread shrimp and pineapple onto skewers, alternating between them. Make sure they are securely placed.

Step 5: Grill the Skewers

1. Oil the grill grate to prevent sticking.
2. Grill skewers for about 3-4 minutes per side or until shrimp turns pink and opaque.
3. Brush with additional Teriyaki sauce while grilling for extra flavor.

Step 6: Serve

Serve your skewers over a helping of coconut rice. Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired. Enjoy your delightful meal!

How to Serve Grilled Shrimp and Pineapple Skewers over Coconut Rice

These Grilled Shrimp and Pineapple Skewers over Coconut Rice make a delightful meal, perfect for any occasion. Pairing the savory shrimp with sweet pineapple adds a tropical flair to your plate.

Fresh Salsa

• A vibrant mix of diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice complements the skewers beautifully.

Avocado Salad

• Creamy avocado slices add richness and balance the dish’s flavors while providing healthy fats.

Lime Wedges

• Squeezing fresh lime over the skewers brightens the flavors and enhances the tropical taste of the coconut rice.

Coconut Flan

• For dessert, serve a silky coconut flan that echoes the coconut theme of this meal, creating a cohesive dining experience.

How to Perfect Grilled Shrimp and Pineapple Skewers over Coconut Rice

To achieve the best grilled shrimp and pineapple skewers, follow these tips for delicious results.

• Choose fresh shrimp: Fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp ensures juicy and tender bites that complement the sweet pineapple perfectly.
• Marinate properly: Allowing the shrimp to marinate for at least 30 minutes helps infuse flavor and keeps them moist during grilling.
• Preheat your grill: A hot grill creates those beautiful grill marks while cooking the shrimp quickly without drying them out.
• Alternate ingredients on skewers: Alternating shrimp and pineapple not only adds visual appeal but also allows the flavors to meld together as they cook.
• Watch cooking time closely: Shrimp cook quickly; aim for about 3-4 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque.
• Garnish thoughtfully: A sprinkle of chopped cilantro adds freshness and color, enhancing both presentation and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Shrimp and Pineapple Skewers over Coconut Rice

Complementing your grilled shrimp and pineapple skewers with tasty side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed green beans with garlic add a crunchy texture alongside your main dish.
2. Mango Salad: A refreshing mango salad with lime dressing provides sweetness that pairs well with the skewers.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can add crunch and a refreshing contrast to the juicy skewers.
4. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter offers a delicious smoky flavor when grilled beside your skewers.
5. Quinoa Pilaf: This nutty side is packed with protein, offering a hearty accompaniment to your meal.
6. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad can cleanse the palate between bites of savory shrimp, keeping things fresh.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Grilled Shrimp and Pineapple Skewers over Coconut Rice, avoid these common pitfalls to ensure a delicious result every time.

• Marinade Use: Not using enough marinade can lead to bland shrimp. Always coat shrimp thoroughly for maximum flavor.
• Skewer Preparation: Overcrowding skewers can cause uneven cooking. Alternate shrimp and pineapple pieces with space in between for even grilling.
• Rice Cooking Time: Ignoring rice cooking times might leave you with undercooked or mushy rice. Follow the suggested cooking time carefully for perfect coconut rice.
• Grill Temperature: Grilling at too low a temperature can lead to rubbery shrimp. Preheat your grill to medium-high for optimal results.
• Garnish Neglect: Skipping the garnish may reduce visual appeal. A sprinkle of chopped cilantro adds freshness and a pop of color.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 2-3 days for the best quality.

Freezing Grilled Shrimp and Pineapple Skewers over Coconut Rice

• Place cooled skewers in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Grilled Shrimp and Pineapple Skewers over Coconut Rice

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat skewers for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet on medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth, and cover until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Grilled Shrimp and Pineapple Skewers over Coconut Rice, check out these FAQs.

How long should I marinate the shrimp?

Marinating the shrimp for 30 minutes is ideal. This allows the flavors to penetrate without making the shrimp mushy.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just be sure to thaw them completely before marinating and grilling for the best texture.

What type of rice is best for coconut rice?

Long grain rice works well as it gives fluffy results. You can also try jasmine rice for added fragrance.

Can I add vegetables to the skewers?

Absolutely! Bell peppers and onions complement the flavors well. Just ensure they are cut into similar sizes as the shrimp and pineapple.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Shrimp and Pineapple Skewers over Coconut Rice make a delightful meal that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of sweet pineapple with savory teriyaki marinated shrimp creates a fantastic flavor profile. Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting the marinade to suit your taste!