Pineapple and Mango Kebabs

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Soak Time: 10 minutes (for wooden skewers)

Cook Time: 8 minutes

Total Time: 33 minutes

Servings: 4

The Pineapple and Mango Kebabs are a tropical delight that bring sunshine to your plate. Juicy, golden fruit cubes are grilled or roasted until lightly caramelized, enhancing their natural sweetness while adding a smoky touch. Perfect as a summer appetizer, healthy dessert, or refreshing side dish, these colorful kebabs combine tropical flavor and vibrant presentation in every bite.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups fresh pineapple chunks (1-inch pieces)
  • 2 large ripe mangoes, peeled and cubed
  • 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon melted butter or coconut oil
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
  • 1 pinch sea salt
  • Wooden or metal skewers

Optional Garnishes:

  • Fresh mint leaves
  • Toasted coconut flakes
  • A drizzle of Greek yogurt or vanilla sauce

Instructions

  1. Prepare skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 10 minutes to prevent burning.Tag words: pineapple kebabs, mango kebabs, tropical fruit skewers, grilled fruit recipe, healthy dessert, summer barbecue side, tropical appetizer, pineapple mango glaze, luau recipe, easy fruit kebabs, grilled pineapple recipe, mango dessert, low-fat snack, vitamin C recipe, island-style cuisine, beach party recipe, summer brunch idea, healthy summer dessert, fruit kabobs, antioxidant recipe, tropical cookout dish, vegetarian appetizer, heart-healthy fruit recipe, low-calorie tropical snack, Caribbean recipe, simple grill recipe, mango pineapple combo, outdoor meal idea, sweet fruit skewer, healthy picnic recipe, sunshine fruit dish
  2. Prepare fruit: Peel and cube the pineapple and mango into equal-sized chunks.
  3. Make glaze: In a small bowl, mix honey, lime juice, melted butter (or coconut oil), cinnamon, and salt.
  4. Assemble kebabs: Thread pineapple and mango pieces alternately onto skewers. Brush with the glaze on all sides.
  5. Grill or broil:
    • Grill: Preheat the grill to medium heat. Place kebabs on the grill for 2–3 minutes per side until lightly charred and caramelized.
    • Oven option: Broil on a baking sheet for 5–6 minutes, turning halfway through.
  6. Serve: Drizzle remaining glaze over the kebabs and garnish with mint or toasted coconut. Serve warm or chilled.

History of Fruit Kebabs

Fruit skewers date back to ancient Middle Eastern and Mediterranean traditions, where grilled meats and fruits were combined on sticks for easy cooking and portability. Tropical variations became popular in the Caribbean and Polynesia, where fruits like mango, pineapple, and papaya grew in abundance. The pineapple-mango combination gained popularity in the 20th century with the rise of tiki cuisine—pairing smoky, sweet flavors reminiscent of island cookouts and luau celebrations. Today, fruit kebabs remain a popular way to showcase seasonal produce at picnics, barbecues, and brunches. (The Nibble)

Health Benefits

1. High in Vitamins and Antioxidants:
Pineapple and mango are both rich in vitamin C and beta-carotene, which boost immunity and promote healthy skin. (Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health)

2. Digestive Support:
Pineapple contains bromelain, a natural enzyme that aids digestion and reduces inflammation.

3. Hydration and Energy:
The high water content of these fruits keeps you hydrated, while their natural sugars offer quick, clean energy.

4. Eye and Heart Health:
Mango provides vitamin A and antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin, supporting eye health and protecting against oxidative stress. (Cleveland Clinic)

5. Low-Fat, Fiber-Rich Snack:
These kebabs are naturally low in fat, cholesterol-free, and provide a good amount of dietary fiber for digestive balance.

Calories and Nutrition (Per Serving – 2 Kebabs)

  • Calories: 150–180 kcal
  • Protein: 1 g
  • Fat: 3 g
  • Carbohydrates: 35–40 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Vitamin C: 110% Daily Value
  • Vitamin A: 25% Daily Value

This makes the kebabs an ideal light dessert, snack, or healthy side for grilled dishes.Tag words: pineapple kebabs, mango kebabs, tropical fruit skewers, grilled fruit recipe, healthy dessert, summer barbecue side, tropical appetizer, pineapple mango glaze, luau recipe, easy fruit kebabs, grilled pineapple recipe, mango dessert, low-fat snack, vitamin C recipe, island-style cuisine, beach party recipe, summer brunch idea, healthy summer dessert, fruit kabobs, antioxidant recipe, tropical cookout dish, vegetarian appetizer, heart-healthy fruit recipe, low-calorie tropical snack, Caribbean recipe, simple grill recipe, mango pineapple combo, outdoor meal idea, sweet fruit skewer, healthy picnic recipe, sunshine fruit dish

Variations

  • Spicy Caribbean Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the glaze for a sweet-heat balance.
  • Coconut-Lime Glaze: Swap butter for coconut oil and drizzle with coconut milk before grilling.
  • Tropical Medley: Add papaya, kiwi, or banana for extra flavor diversity.
  • Yogurt Dip: Serve with a side of vanilla Greek yogurt mixed with honey and lime zest.
  • Frozen Treat: Chill the skewers after grilling and serve cold for a refreshing summer dessert.

Pro Tips

  • Choose ripe but firm mangoes to ensure they hold shape on the grill.
  • Avoid overcooking—too much heat will make the fruit mushy and watery.
  • Soak wooden skewers well to prevent charring.
  • For an extra caramelized finish, brush with honey glaze again in the last minute of grilling.
  • Pair with grilled chicken or shrimp for a savory-sweet tropical meal.

Why You’ll Love It

Pineapple and Mango Kebabs bring a taste of the tropics wherever you are. They’re simple to prepare, beautiful to serve, and bursting with natural sweetness and bright color. Whether for a summer brunch, outdoor barbecue, or healthy dessert, these kebabs capture the essence of sunny island cuisine—fresh, fruity, and full of life.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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