Perfect for a summer cookout, this heart-healthy steak and pineapple kabobs recipe delivers a uniquely sweet and savory taste thanks to fresh, juicy pineapple. A simple tamari-lime marinade ensures the beef stays tender while infusing it with bright, tropical flavor. Whether you are firing up the grill for a backyard BBQ or looking for a protein-packed dinner, these skewers are a crowd-pleaser that fits into a diabetic-friendly and gluten-free diet.
Pro Tip: Fresh pineapple contains bromelain, a natural enzyme that makes meat incredibly tender. However, be sure not to marinate for more than 2 hours, or the texture can become too soft!
If this recipe has your taste buds craving more red meat, pop over to our delicious collection of healthy beef recipes! We also have a variety of tantalizing sweet pineapple recipes you will love!
This recipe focuses on lean beef tenderloin, which provides high-quality protein without the excess saturated fat found in heavier cuts. By pairing the meat with fiber-rich vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, and cherry tomatoes, you create a balanced meal that supports heart health and keeps blood sugar levels stable.
Tender cuts like beef tenderloin (filet mignon) or top sirloin are best because they don't require long cooking times to become tender. Avoid tough cuts like chuck roast unless you plan to marinate them for a very long time.
Because pineapple contains the enzyme bromelain, it tenderizes meat quickly. Do not marinate for more than 2 hours, or the beef may become mushy and lose its pleasant texture.
Yes, you can use canned pineapple chunks in juice (drained). However, fresh pineapple holds up better on the grill and offers a superior flavor and texture.
Yes! Soaking wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes prevents them from catching fire or burning on the hot grill.
Fire up the grill for these heart-healthy beef favorites that prove you don't have to sacrifice flavor for a balanced diet. Featuring lean cuts like flank steak and sirloin, these protein-rich recipes are perfect for your next summer barbecue.
Complete your cookout menu with these healthy side dishes that are packed with fiber and fresh vegetables. Whether you need a lighter potato salad or a protein-rich bean salad, these crowd-pleasing options are delicious alternatives to heavy, mayo-laden sides.
Fresh pineapple is the star of this dish, offering more than just sweetness. It is packed with bromelain, a group of enzymes that help digest protein and can reduce inflammation. This same enzyme acts as a natural meat tenderizer, breaking down tough fibers to give your steak a melt-in-your-mouth texture. Pineapple is also an excellent source of Vitamin C and manganese, which supports bone health and metabolism. When choosing a pineapple for grilling, look for one that is golden-yellow at the base and gives slightly when squeezed—this ensures it is ripe and ready to caramelize beautifully over the heat.
Recipe yields 8 servings
In a bowl, combine the lime juice, lime zest, tamari, fish sauce, garlic, ginger, brown sugar, turmeric, coriander, cumin and black pepper and stir to combine. In a shallow baking dish, arrange the beef cubes and cover with the marinade. Turn to coat. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours.
Using 16 metal skewers, or soaked wooden skewers, thread the beef, bell peppers, mushrooms, cherry tomatoes and pineapple in alternating rows.
Lightly spray a grill pan with nonstick cooking spray and heat over medium heat. Grill the beef kebabs for 3 to 5 minutes on each side, or until seared and cooked through. Garnish with the scallions and sesame seeds.
If tenderloin is unavailable, top sirloin or New York strip steak are excellent lean alternatives that grill well.
You can use low-sodium soy sauce or coconut aminos if you prefer.
If you don't have fish sauce or prefer not to use it, add a dash of Worcestershire sauce for similar umami depth.
Honey or maple syrup can be swapped in for the marinade sweetness.
Feel free to swap in red onions, zucchini rounds, or yellow squash for variety.