Pineapple BBQ Pork Skewers are the perfect summer grilling recipe, combining the sweet and tangy flavors of pineapple with the savory, smoky taste of barbecue-marinated pork. These skewers are a crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy to prepare and bursting with tropical flair. Whether you’re hosting a backyard cookout or looking for a new way to elevate your grilling game, these Pineapple BBQ Pork Skewers are sure to impress.
Table of Contents
Ingredients for Pineapple BBQ Pork Skewers
- 1 pound pork tenderloin, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 fresh pineapple, cut into 1-inch chunks
- 1 red onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 green bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- ½ cup BBQ sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Grilling Up Pineapple BBQ Pork Skewers
Preheat your grill to medium heat, ensuring it’s nice and hot for searing those juicy pork and pineapple pieces to perfection. In a small bowl, whisk together the BBQ sauce, olive oil, soy sauce, garlic powder, and black pepper to create a flavorful marinade. In a large bowl, combine the cubed pork, pineapple chunks, red onion, and bell pepper, then pour the marinade over the top, tossing everything together to coat evenly.
Now it’s time to thread your ingredients onto skewers, alternating between the pork, pineapple, onion, and bell pepper. If you’re using wooden skewers, be sure to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes beforehand to prevent them from burning on the grill.
Place the skewers on the preheated grill and let them work their magic for 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally, until the pork is cooked through and the vegetables are tender. For an extra layer of flavor, feel free to brush the skewers with some extra BBQ sauce during the last few minutes of cooking, creating a deliciously sticky glaze.
Once your Pineapple BBQ Pork Skewers are grilled to perfection, remove them from the heat and let them rest briefly before serving. The pork should be juicy and tender, complemented by the sweet and tangy pineapple, the crunch of the bell pepper, and the savory onion.
Serving Suggestions for Pineapple BBQ Pork Skewers
These Pineapple BBQ Pork Skewers are the perfect main dish for a summer cookout or backyard gathering. Serve them alongside grilled corn on the cob, a fresh green salad, or a vibrant pineapple cucumber salad for a complete and balanced meal. For a tropical twist, pair the skewers with a refreshing pineapple margarita or a fruity mocktail.
Variations and Substitutions
While the classic combination of pork, pineapple, and veggies is hard to beat, you can easily customize this recipe to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Try swapping out the pork for chicken, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. You can also experiment with different vegetables, such as zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms, to change up the flavors and textures.
For the marinade, feel free to use your favorite BBQ sauce or even try a homemade version. You can also play with the seasonings, adding a dash of chili powder, cumin, or smoked paprika for a more robust flavor profile.
If you’re looking for alternative cooking methods, these Pineapple BBQ Pork Skewers can also be baked in the oven or air-fried for a healthier, fuss-free option.
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FAQs About Pineapple BBQ Pork Skewers
How can I ensure my pineapple BBQ pork skewers are tender and juicy?
To achieve tender and juicy pineapple BBQ pork skewers, select pork tenderloin or pork shoulder, as these cuts are more forgiving when grilled. Marinate the meat for at least 30 minutes, but ideally for a few hours or overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate and the acids in the marinade to break down the proteins, making them more tender. Additionally, avoid overcooking the skewers; use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—145°F is the safe internal temperature for pork. Let the skewers rest for a few minutes after grilling to allow juices to redistribute.
Can I use canned pineapple for the skewers, or is fresh pineapple better?
While fresh pineapple is often preferred for its vibrant flavor and texture, canned pineapple can also be used in a pinch. If using canned pineapple, choose the unsweetened variety packed in juice or water to avoid added sugars that could affect the taste of your skewers. Drain the canned pineapple well before threading onto skewers. Keep in mind that fresh pineapple will impart a more intense sweetness and a slightly firmer texture, making it ideal for grilling.
What is the best way to prevent the skewers from burning on the grill?
To prevent skewers from burning, soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This helps to prevent them from catching fire. Alternatively, you can use metal skewers, which are less likely to burn. When grilling, place the skewers on a cooler part of the grill initially to allow the meat to cook through without charring, and then finish them over direct heat for a few minutes to achieve that delicious caramelization.
How do I adjust the recipe for dietary restrictions, such as gluten-free or low-carb diets?
To modify your pineapple BBQ pork skewers for dietary restrictions, consider the following adjustments: For gluten-free diets, ensure you use gluten-free BBQ sauce and soy sauce (look for tamari). For a low-carb version, use a sugar-free BBQ sauce and increase the amount of non-starchy vegetables, such as bell peppers and zucchini, while reducing the amount of pineapple to lower the sugar content. You can also substitute pork with leaner proteins like chicken breast or shrimp, which are typically lower in carbs.
Conclusion: Grilling Up Tropical Perfection
Pineapple BBQ Pork Skewers are the ultimate summer grilling recipe, combining the bold flavors of barbecue with the sweet and tangy notes of fresh pineapple. Whether you’re hosting a backyard cookout or simply looking to spice up your weeknight dinners, these skewers are sure to impress. With their vibrant colors, juicy pork, and perfectly caramelized edges, they’re a true taste of tropical delight. So fire up the grill, gather your ingredients, and get ready to indulge in the deliciousness of Pineapple BBQ Pork Skewers.
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Grill Up Flavorful Pineapple BBQ Pork Skewers for a Delightful Meal
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Grilling
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Tropical
Description
Pineapple BBQ Pork Skewers are the perfect summer grilling recipe, combining the sweet and tangy flavors of pineapple with the savory, smoky taste of barbecue-marinated pork. These skewers are a crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy to prepare and bursting with tropical flair.
Ingredients
- 1 pound pork tenderloin, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 fresh pineapple, cut into 1-inch chunks
- 1 red onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 green bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 2 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
1. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the BBQ sauce, olive oil, soy sauce, garlic powder, and black pepper to create a flavorful marinade.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cubed pork, pineapple chunks, red onion, and bell pepper, then pour the marinade over the top, tossing everything together to coat evenly.
4. Thread your ingredients onto skewers, alternating between the pork, pineapple, onion, and bell pepper.
5. Place the skewers on the preheated grill and let them cook for 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally, until the pork is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
6. Remove from heat and let them rest briefly before serving.
Notes
These skewers are perfect for a summer cookout or backyard gathering. Serve alongside grilled corn on the cob or a fresh green salad.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg