Blackened Shrimp Tacos with Pineapple Recipe

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Yield: 3 servings

Ingredients

Blackened Seasoning Mix

• 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic salt
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Pineapple Salsa

• 1/2 fresh pineapple, peeled and cored
• 1/4 cup chopped red onions
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 1 lime, juiced
• 1/8 teaspoon salt

Shrimp Tacos

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• 6 (6-inch) flour tortillas

Directions

Step 1: Preheat your outdoor grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grate to prevent sticking.

Step 2: In a small bowl, combine the smoked paprika, onion powder, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, garlic salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Set aside.

Step 3: Cut the pineapple lengthwise into wedges. Grill the pineapple wedges for 4 to 5 minutes on each side, until they have nice grill marks and a soft texture.

Step 4: Once grilled, chop the pineapple into small pieces and place them in a bowl. Add the chopped red onions, cilantro, lime juice, and salt. Stir to combine and set aside to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 5: Thread the shrimp onto skewers. Brush the shrimp with the melted butter and coat them with the seasoning mix from Step 2.

Step 6: Grill the shrimp for about 3 minutes per side, or until they turn bright pink on the outside and the meat becomes opaque inside.

Step 7: While the shrimp are grilling, place the tortillas on the hot grill and heat them for 20 to 30 seconds per side, until they are lightly grilled and warm.

Step 8: To assemble the tacos, place 2-3 shrimp on each tortilla and top with a generous amount of the pineapple salsa mixture. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Nutrition	Amount
Calories	608
Total Fat	14g (18%)
Saturated Fat	5g (26%)
Cholesterol	329mg (110%)
Sodium	2552mg (111%)
Total Carbohydrate	75g (27%)
Dietary Fiber	8g (27%)
Total Sugars	8g
Protein	45g (90%)
Vitamin C	37mg (41%)
Calcium	241mg (19%)
Iron	6mg (32%)
Potassium	723mg (15%)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.

If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.

The Story Behind Blackened Shrimp Tacos with Pineapple

Blackened Shrimp Tacos with Pineapple combine bold Cajun-inspired flavors with tropical sweetness, creating a dish that feels both summery and indulgent. The technique of "blackening" originates from Louisiana, where Chef Paul Prudhomme popularized cooking seafood in a hot cast-iron skillet coated with a robust blend of spices, giving it a charred, smoky crust while keeping the interior tender. Pairing blackened shrimp with fresh pineapple in tacos is a modern twist that brings together the Southern U.S. culinary tradition with vibrant Latin American influences.

Regional Characteristics

While blackened seasoning is traditionally a Southern U.S. hallmark, these tacos showcase a fusion style popular along the Gulf Coast and in coastal California. The pineapple salsa adds a tropical brightness reminiscent of Mexican and Caribbean cuisine. The dish reflects regional tendencies to combine seafood with fruit, creating a balance of heat, smokiness, and sweetness, which is particularly favored in warm coastal areas.

Differences from Similar Dishes

Unlike typical shrimp tacos, which may be lightly grilled or fried, blackened shrimp tacos feature a distinctive spice crust. The inclusion of pineapple sets it apart from more traditional Mexican-style tacos, which often use salsa verde or pico de gallo. Additionally, the use of butter in the blackening process gives the shrimp a rich, caramelized exterior that differentiates it from tacos cooked purely with oil or dry spices.

Common Serving Locations

These tacos are most often served in coastal restaurants, food trucks, and summer gatherings. They are particularly popular at seafood grills and casual American eateries that emphasize fresh, local ingredients. They also appear at home cookouts and beachside events, where the combination of grilled shrimp and pineapple resonates with seasonal, outdoor dining experiences.

Interesting Facts

• Blackening was originally a budget-friendly way to add flavor to less expensive cuts of fish by creating a smoky, spicy crust.
• The contrast of spicy shrimp and sweet pineapple not only excites the taste buds but also reflects a broader trend of mixing savory and sweet in modern cuisine.
• While traditionally cooked on a cast-iron skillet, grilling the shrimp and pineapple adds a smoky flavor that enhances the dish's summer appeal.
• These tacos can be easily customized with additions like avocado, pickled onions, or a drizzle of chipotle mayo for extra layers of flavor.
• Nutrition-wise, despite being indulgent in taste, the combination of shrimp and pineapple provides a high-protein, vitamin-rich meal with a bright, fresh profile.

FAQ about Blackened Shrimp Tacos with Pineapple Recipe