Introduction to Bacon Wrapped Pineapple Shrimp
Ah, the delightful combination of sweet and savory! Anyone who’s ever bitten into a piece of Bacon Wrapped Pineapple Shrimp knows exactly why this dish is a crowd-pleaser. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights or even special gatherings when you want something unique yet simple.
I love whipping these up for my family, and let me tell you, they disappear faster than I can plate them. This dish encapsulates the magic of easy appetizers that impress without needing a lot of fuss. Let’s dive into this tropical treat together!
Why You’ll Love This Bacon Wrapped Pineapple Shrimp
This Bacon Wrapped Pineapple Shrimp recipe has everything you need—speed, flavor, and flair! With just a handful of ingredients, it comes together in under 30 minutes. Seriously, it’s a lifesaver during busy nights. The crispy bacon hugs the juicy shrimp and sweet pineapple, creating an explosion of flavor that never fails to impress. Plus, it’s a fun dish that invites everyone to gather around and enjoy.
Ingredients for Bacon Wrapped Pineapple Shrimp
Creating your Bacon Wrapped Pineapple Shrimp is all about simple yet impactful ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Jumbo shrimp: Look for large, peeled, and deveined shrimp. They provide a juicy bite and really soak up the flavors.
- Fresh or canned pineapple: The sweet bursts of pineapple add a lovely contrast to the savory bacon. Fresh is great, but canned works well too—just make sure to drain it properly!
- Center-cut bacon: This bacon has a delicious balance of fat and meat, giving you that crispy texture without being overly greasy.
If you want to mix things up, consider adding extras like soy sauce or ginger to marinate the shrimp, enhancing the flavor even more. And don’t worry, measurements and exact quantities are available at the bottom of the article for printing!
How to Make Bacon Wrapped Pineapple Shrimp
Creating your Bacon Wrapped Pineapple Shrimp is a simple joy. This dish is about combining flavors effortlessly. Follow these steps to whip up a delicious appetizer that’s sure to impress.
Step 1: Prepare the Bacon
Start by cutting your bacon slices in half crosswise. This yields 12 perfect strips. It’s important to use center-cut bacon for optimal wrapping. Each half should be just right to wrap around the shrimp without excess hanging off. The goal is a snug fit that holds everything together as it cooks.
Step 2: Prepare the Pineapple
Now, let’s get to that pineapple! If you’re using fresh, slice it into bite-sized pieces, about 2-3 cm in diameter. This size is just right for nestling into the shrimp. If you’ve got canned pineapple, drain it thoroughly to remove any extra juice. Make sure your pineapple chunks aren’t too juicy, as that could affect the texture of the final dish. The pineapple should be sweet and fragrant, perfectly contrasting the savory bacon.
Step 3: Assemble the Shrimp
Time to bring it all together! Take one shrimp and nestle a pineapple chunk right in its curve. Then, wrap that snugly with a strip of bacon, ensuring the pineapple is securely held. Next, pin everything in place with a wooden toothpick. Trust me; this little step is key to keeping everything intact while cooking. Treat each shrimp as a tiny package of flavor waiting to be enjoyed!
Step 4: Cooking the Shrimp
Let’s start cooking! Preheat a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, arrange your bacon-wrapped shrimp in the pan. Cook for about three minutes per side. Keep an eye on them! When the bacon turns crispy and the shrimp becomes opaque and firm, you’ll know it’s time to take them off. The smells will be irresistible!
Tips for Success
- Soak toothpicks in water for 30 minutes. This prevents them from burning during cooking.
- If possible, use fresh pineapple for a juicier, more vibrant flavor.
- Cook in batches if your skillet is small, ensuring even cooking and crispy bacon.
- Feel free to marinate your shrimp in soy sauce, ginger, or even a touch of honey for extra flavor.
- Keep an eye on the heat; adjust as needed to avoid burning the bacon.
Equipment Needed
- Nonstick skillet: A quality nonstick skillet is essential for easy cooking and cleanup. If you don’t have one, use a regular skillet with a little extra oil.
- Wooden toothpicks: These keep everything together. In a pinch, you can use metal skewers or even dental floss!
- Cutting board: A sturdy cutting board is a must for prepping your ingredients with ease.
Variations of Bacon Wrapped Pineapple Shrimp
- Spicy Twist: Add a thin slice of jalapeño with the pineapple for a kick. It balances the sweetness and adds a delightful heat.
- Herb-Infused: Sprinkle some minced fresh herbs like cilantro or basil over the shrimp before wrapping. This adds depth and freshness to each bite.
- Gluten-Free Option: Ensure you use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari if marinating the shrimp, making this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive eaters.
- Sweet and Tangy: Brush the bacon-wrapped shrimp with a mix of barbecue sauce and honey before cooking. This creates a sweet glaze that caramelizes beautifully!
- Seasoned Bacon: Try wrapping the shrimp in turkey bacon seasoned with smoked paprika or a dash of garlic powder for a healthier twist.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a dipping sauce: A sweet chili sauce or a tangy barbecue dip complements the flavors perfectly.
- Pair with a fresh salad: A crisp green salad with a citrus vinaigrette brings brightness to the meal.
- Glass of chilled white wine: A light Riesling or Sauvignon Blanc enhances the tropical vibe.
- Presentation on skewers: Arrange the shrimp on skewers for a fun, easy-to-eat option at parties.
FAQs about Bacon Wrapped Pineapple Shrimp
As I dive into the delicious world of Bacon Wrapped Pineapple Shrimp, I often get asked a few common questions about this delightful dish. Let’s tackle some of those queries together!
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe? Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before starting. Frozen shrimp can still work wonders as long as they are peeled and deveined.
What’s the best way to store leftovers? If you have any leftovers (although they’ll likely go fast!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently in a skillet to revive that crispy bacon magic.
Can I make Bacon Wrapped Pineapple Shrimp in advance? Yes! You can assemble them ahead of time and store them in the fridge. Just cook them just before serving for that perfect crispy finish.
What dipping sauces pair well with this dish? I recommend a sweet chili sauce for a bit of zing, or a classic ranch dressing for a creamy option. Both go deliciously with the sweet and savory combo!
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep? Definitely! You can prepare these bacon-wrapped bites ahead of time and have them ready for busy evenings or unexpected guests. Just remember to cook them fresh for the best experience!
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredible about bringing together the sweetness of pineapple, the savory taste of bacon, and the tender shrimp in one dish. Each Bacon Wrapped Pineapple Shrimp bite feels like a mini celebration on your plate!
Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, these little morsels create warmth and happiness, transforming any meal into a tropical escape.
So, roll up your sleeves and give this recipe a go! Trust me, the joy of seeing those plates emptied will be the highlight of your culinary adventures. Enjoy every delightful bite!
Print
Bacon Wrapped Pineapple Shrimp
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Total Time: 21 minutes
- Yield: 12 pieces 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Pan-frying
- Cuisine: Tropical
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
Bacon Wrapped Pineapple Shrimp is a delightful starter that combines the sweetness of pineapple with the savory flavor of bacon and the succulence of shrimp.
Ingredients
- 12 jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 90 grams fresh pineapple, cut into bite-sized chunks, or one 400-gram can pineapple in natural juice, drained
- 6 slices center-cut bacon, halved crosswise
Instructions
- Cut each bacon slice in half crosswise to yield 12 strips.
- If using fresh pineapple, slice it into small chunks approximately 2–3 cm in diameter; if using canned pineapple, drain thoroughly.
- Nestle one chunk of pineapple into the curve of each shrimp.
- Wrap a bacon strip snugly around each shrimp and pineapple piece, securing it with a wooden toothpick through the center.
- Preheat a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat.
- Arrange the bacon-wrapped shrimp in the hot pan and cook for 3 minutes per side until the bacon is crisp and the shrimp are opaque and firm throughout.
Notes
- For added flavor, consider marinating the shrimp in a mixture of soy sauce and ginger before wrapping.
- Make sure the bacon is cooked thoroughly for the best taste and texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
