Save to Pinterest Juicy turkey pieces and vibrant fruit are grilled to perfection and brushed with a fragrant herb-maple glaze, creating a deliciously sweet-and-savory main perfect for summer gatherings.
The first time I made these skewers for a backyard barbecue, my family could not stop raving about the blend of juicy turkey and grilled fruit. It became an instant hit and is now a staple during our warm-weather get-togethers.
Ingredients
- Turkey breast: 500 g (1.1 lbs), cut into 2.5 cm (1-inch) cubes
- Red bell pepper: Cut into 2.5 cm (1-inch) pieces
- Yellow bell pepper: Cut into 2.5 cm (1-inch) pieces
- Red onion: 1 small, cut into wedges
- Fresh pineapple: 1 cup chunks
- Seedless grapes: 1 cup red or green
- Olive oil: 2 tbsp
- Kosher salt: 1 tsp
- Black pepper: 1/2 tsp
- Pure maple syrup: 3 tbsp
- Fresh lemon juice: 2 tbsp
- Fresh parsley: 2 tbsp chopped
- Fresh thyme: 1 tbsp chopped (or 1 tsp dried thyme)
- Dijon mustard: 1 tbsp
- Garlic: 1 small clove, finely minced
- Smoked paprika: 1/2 tsp
- Chili flakes: 1/4 tsp (optional)
- Salt and pepper: To taste
Instructions
- Prepare skewers:
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 20 minutes to prevent burning.
- Toss ingredients:
- In a large bowl, toss turkey cubes, bell peppers, onion, pineapple, and grapes with olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
- Thread skewers:
- Thread turkey and fruit alternately onto skewers, distributing ingredients evenly.
- Heat grill:
- Preheat grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Mix glaze:
- In a small bowl, whisk together all glaze ingredients until well combined.
- Grill skewers:
- Grill skewers for 12–15 minutes, turning every 3–4 minutes, until turkey is cooked through and lightly charred.
- Glaze skewers:
- During the last 5 minutes of grilling, brush skewers generously with the herby maple glaze, turning to coat all sides.
- Rest and serve:
- Remove from grill and let rest for 2–3 minutes before serving.
Save to Pinterest Gathering around the grill with my kids and seeing everyone build their own skewers is now a beloved family tradition. The laughter and fun of assembling and sharing these vibrant skewers make every meal memorable.
Serving Ideas
Serve the skewers with a crisp green salad or spoon them over steamy rice for a heartier dish. Chilled Sauvignon Blanc or fruity rosé is a delicious pairing for adults.
Ingredient Swaps
Swap turkey for chicken breast or firm tofu to suit different tastes. Try peaches, mangoes, or strawberries instead of pineapple and grapes for a fruity twist.
Required Tools
You will need a grill or grill pan, skewers, mixing bowls, a basting brush, and a knife with cutting board for this recipe.
Save to Pinterest Colorful fruit and juicy turkey combine for a fresh grill recipe everyone loves. Enjoy with your favorite summer sides for a crowd-pleasing meal.
Common Recipe Questions
- → How long should I soak wooden skewers before grilling?
Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 20 minutes to prevent burning on the grill.
- → Can I substitute turkey with other proteins?
Yes, chicken breast or firm tofu can be used as alternatives for a different protein profile.
- → What fruits work well with these skewers?
Pineapple and grapes are ideal, but peaches, mangoes, or strawberries make great substitutes for a fresh twist.
- → How do I make the herby maple glaze?
Whisk together maple syrup, lemon juice, chopped parsley and thyme, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, smoked paprika, chili flakes, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- → What is the best way to grill these skewers evenly?
Grill over medium-high heat, turning every 3-4 minutes for about 12-15 minutes, and brush with glaze during the last 5 minutes for a flavorful finish.