Grilled Pineapple and Marinated Feta Toothpick Appetizers

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These grilled pineapple and marinated feta toothpick appetizers are a delicious sweet and savory bite made with fresh pineapple, crispy prosciutto, creamy, spicy feta, and fresh basil.

The contrast of warm, juicy fruit with salty cheese and herbs makes each skewer feel a little special without being complicated to make.

It’s an easy appetizer skewer recipe that’s perfect for summer gatherings, holiday platters, or anytime you want something a bit different on your table.

How To Make These Grilled Pineapple and Marinated Feta Toothpick Appetizers

Ingredients You’ll Need For This Recipe

For the skewers:

2–3 thick pineapple rounds
12 large feta cubes (from a block in brine)
3 slices prosciutto
12 large fresh basil leaves

For the feta marinade:

1 tablespoon olive oil
½ teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
Pinch of salt
Pinch of pepper
Dash of chili flakes

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Cut the pineapple rounds into 12 large chunks and place them on the baking tray.

3. Slice each piece of prosciutto in half, then fold each half lengthwise and again into a thinner strip.

4. Cut the strip once more so you end up with small folded pieces.

5. Place one folded piece of prosciutto on top of each pineapple chunk.

6. Bake for about 15 minutes, until the prosciutto begins to crisp and brown at the edges while the pineapple softens and caramelizes.

7. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, fresh thyme, salt, pepper, and chili flakes.

8. Place the feta cubes in a shallow dish and drizzle the oil mixture over them.

9. Gently turn each cube so all sides are evenly coated. Refrigerate the feta until you’re ready to assemble the skewers.

10. Thread one feta cube onto each toothpick.

11. Follow the feta with a folded basil leaf on each skewer.

12. Finish the skewers with the warm pineapple and prosciutto pieces at the bottom.

13. Arrange the skewers on a serving tray and serve while the pineapple is still warm for the best flavor contrast.

Important Recipe Notes

This recipe makes 12 fruit and cheese skewers.
I used toothpicks because they are thinner than skewers – the thicker the skewers, the bigger the feta cubes need to be.
Choose feta that doesn’t crumble apart when you put it on toothpicks. Look for a firm block of feta that is packed in brine, and avoid the dry, pre-crumbled varieties.
Don’t choose a reduced-fat or light feta cheese – these usually break more easily.
Check the best-before date – the older the cheese, the more easily it will crumble.
Toss the feta cubes with the flavored oil gently so you don’t break them, and keep them in the fridge until it is time to thread them up.
When putting the feta on toothpicks, hold each piece tightly between your fingers to prevent it from breaking, and always have a few extra cubes in hand, just in case!
Drizzle with balsamic glaze for extra flavor if you like.