As a passionate home cook, I love dishes that tell a story through vibrant flavors and textures. Sweet Chili Pineapple Shrimp is one such dish that instantly transports me to a tropical escape where every bite bursts with a balanced melody of sweet, spicy, and tangy notes.
This recipe combines juicy pineapple chunks and tender shrimp glazed in a zesty sweet chili sauce, making it perfect to brighten up any dinner table. It’s not just a meal, but a delightful culinary experience worth savoring.
- Perfect harmony of sweet pineapple and spicy chili that excites your palate.
- Quick to prepare with simple ingredients, ideal for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.
- Healthy and flavorful, featuring fresh shrimp and vibrant seasonings for a tropical twist.
Ingredients
- Large Shrimp (1 pound): Fresh peeled and deveined shrimp provide a tender, juicy texture that soaks up the marinade flavor perfectly.
- Fresh Pineapple (1 cup): Bite-sized chunks of ripe pineapple add sweet juiciness and a tropical flair to every bite.
- Sweet Chili Sauce (1/2 cup): This sauce gives a sweet and mildly spicy glaze that complements the shrimp wonderfully.
- Soy Sauce (2 tablespoons): Adds umami depth and subtle saltiness, balancing sweet and sour elements.
- Olive Oil (1 tablespoon): Used for cooking shrimp, it lends a light, fruity undertone and prevents sticking.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Fresh minced garlic introduces aromatic pungency and enhances savory notes.
- Fresh Ginger (1 teaspoon, grated): Adds a bright, warm spice that complements the tropical flavors.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste, seasoning shrimp perfectly without overpowering the fresh ingredients.
- Optional Lime Juice (1 tablespoon): A zesty splash before serving brightens and lifts the entire dish.
- Fresh Cilantro (chopped): For garnish, adding a fresh herbaceous finish and color contrast.
- Red Pepper Flakes: Optional heat enhancer if you prefer more spice in the dish.
- Sesame Seeds: Sprinkled on top for a crunchy texture and nutty aroma.
Instructions
- Marinate the Shrimp
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Combine shrimp with sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger in a bowl, tossing until evenly coated. Refrigerate for 15-30 minutes to allow flavors to infuse deeply, enhancing each bite with balanced sweetness and spice.
- Prepare the Pineapple
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While shrimp marinates, cut fresh pineapple into bite-sized chunks or drain canned pineapple thoroughly. Choosing ripe pineapple ensures each piece brings juicy sweetness, perfectly complementing the chili’s heat in the finished dish.
- Cook the Shrimp
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Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat to ensure a quick sear. Add shrimp in a single layer, cooking 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Avoid overcooking to maintain a tender, juicy texture.
- Combine Shrimp and Pineapple
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Add pineapple chunks to the skillet with shrimp, stirring gently. Cook an additional 2-3 minutes to warm pineapple and meld flavors. Optionally, stir in a splash of leftover marinade for extra zest. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Finish and Garnish
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Remove skillet from heat and squeeze fresh lime juice over the dish for brightness. Garnish with chopped cilantro, red pepper flakes for extra heat, and sesame seeds to add crunch and visual appeal.
- Do not over-marinate shrimp longer than one hour to avoid saltiness and textural changes.
- Cook shrimp in batches if needed to prevent overcrowding, ensuring even searing.
- Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving for balanced flavor.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days for optimal freshness. Reheat gently over medium heat to avoid overcooking the shrimp and maintain texture.
Serving Suggestions
This Sweet Chili Pineapple Shrimp pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice, coconut rice, or quinoa for a filling meal. A fresh green salad or grilled vegetables also complement the tropical flavor profile perfectly.
- Choose wild-caught shrimp when possible for better flavor and firmer texture.
- For consistent results, ensure your skillet is fully heated before adding shrimp to achieve a quick sear.
- If you want even more heat, add red chili flakes directly to the marinade.
FAQs
- Can I use frozen shrimp?
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Yes, frozen shrimp is fine as long as it’s properly thawed and patted dry before marinating to avoid excess moisture.
- What type of pineapple works best?
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Fresh, ripe pineapple is preferred for juiciness and sweetness, but well-drained canned pineapple can be used in a pinch.
- Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
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Yes, substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos to make this dish gluten-free.
- How spicy is this dish?
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The sweetness of the chili sauce balances mild heat; add red pepper flakes for an extra spicy kick.
- Can I prepare the marinade in advance?
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You can prepare the marinade ahead but marinate shrimp only shortly before cooking to avoid affecting texture.
- What can I serve this with?
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Serve with rice, noodles, or fresh greens to balance the vibrant flavors in the dish.
Sweet Chili Pineapple Shrimp
Equipment
- 1 skillet large
- 1 bowl for marinating shrimp
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp peeled and deveined
- 1 cup fresh pineapple cut into bite-sized chunks
- 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon lime juice optional
- Fresh cilantro chopped, for garnish (optional)
- Red pepper flakes for extra heat optional
- Sesame seeds for garnish optional
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine shrimp, sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Toss to coat and marinate in the refrigerator for 15 to 30 minutes.
- Prepare the pineapple by cutting it into bite-sized chunks if fresh, or draining canned pineapple well.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add marinated shrimp and cook 2 to 3 minutes per side until pink and opaque, avoiding overcooking.
- Add pineapple chunks to the skillet with the shrimp. Stir gently and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes to warm through and blend flavors.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Optionally, add a splash of leftover marinade while combining for extra flavor.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, red pepper flakes, lime juice, and sesame seeds as desired.
Notes
- Marinate shrimp for up to an hour but no longer to avoid excessive saltiness.
- Use ripe, aromatic pineapple for the best flavor.
- Cook shrimp in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding.
- Add lime juice before serving to brighten flavors.
- Store leftovers refrigerated and consume within two days.
