Grilled Pineapple Recipe

This Grilled Pineapple Recipe is a delightful treat that showcases the natural sweetness of fresh pineapple. Perfect for summer BBQs, family gatherings, or even as a sweet side dish for dinner, this recipe brings out the juicy flavor of pineapple with a hint of honey and cinnamon. It’s easy to prepare and can be enjoyed by everyone, making it a must-try!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This grilled pineapple recipe takes only 25 minutes from start to finish, allowing you to whip up a delicious treat in no time.
• Healthy Dessert Option: With fresh fruit and minimal added sugars, this dish makes for a guilt-free dessert choice.
• Versatile Serving Ideas: Enjoy it as a side dish with grilled meats, or serve it on top of yogurt for breakfast. The options are endless!
• Impressive Presentation: Grilled pineapple looks stunning on any plate, making it ideal for entertaining guests.
• Unique Flavor Combination: The addition of honey and cinnamon enhances the natural sweetness and brings out complex flavors.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having everything at hand will make your grilling experience smooth.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill or grill pan
• Basting brush
• Small mixing bowl
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or grill pan: Provides the perfect heat source to achieve those beautiful grill marks and caramelization on the pineapple.
• Basting brush: Ensures even distribution of the olive oil mixture over the pineapple spears for maximum flavor.
• Knife and cutting board: Essential for safely peeling and cutting the pineapple into spears.

Ingredients

This grilled pineapple recipe is made with fresh pineapple spears, a little honey, oil, and cinnamon then grilled for about 6 minutes per side.

For the Pineapple

• 1 pineapple (peeled and cut into spears (about 12))
• ¼ cup olive oil (plus more for greasing grates)
• ¼ cup honey (plus more for serving)
• ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
• sea salt (for serving)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Grilled Pineapple Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium heat (350°F). To prevent sticking, coat the grill grates with olive oil.

Step 2: Prepare the Olive Oil Mixture

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, honey, and cinnamon until well combined. Use a basting brush to generously apply this mixture all over each pineapple spear.

Step 3: Grill the Pineapple

Place the prepared pineapple spears on the grill in a single layer. Grill them for 6-8 minutes on each side or until they are lightly browned and tender.

Step 4: Serve Your Grilled Pineapple

Once grilled to perfection, serve immediately. Drizzle with more honey if desired and sprinkle with sea salt for an extra flavor boost!

How to Serve Grilled Pineapple Recipe

Grilled pineapple is a versatile dish that can enhance many meals. Its sweet and smoky flavor pairs well with a variety of other dishes. Here are some great ways to serve your grilled pineapple.

As a Dessert

• Serve with Ice Cream: Top your warm grilled pineapple with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast.
• Drizzle with Chocolate Sauce: A drizzle of chocolate sauce adds an extra layer of sweetness that complements the caramelized flavors.

On a Salad

• Tropical Salad: Add grilled pineapple to mixed greens, avocado, and walnuts for a refreshing salad.
• With Spinach and Feta: Combine grilled pineapple with baby spinach, feta cheese, and a light vinaigrette for a unique side dish.

As a Topping

• On Burgers: Add grilled pineapple slices on top of burgers for an unexpected burst of flavor.
• On Tacos: Use as a topping for tacos, particularly pork or chicken, to give them a sweet twist.

With Beverages

• In Cocktails: Muddle grilled pineapple in cocktails like mojitos or piña coladas for added depth.
• As Garnish for Iced Tea: Skewer small pieces of grilled pineapple onto iced tea glasses for an attractive garnish.

How to Perfect Grilled Pineapple Recipe

To make sure your grilled pineapple turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.

• Bold Flavor Base: Make sure to brush the spears generously with the olive oil mixture. This helps achieve that beautiful caramelization.
• Choose Ripe Pineapple: A ripe pineapple will be sweeter and yield better results when grilled. Look for one that has a sweet aroma and gives slightly when pressed.
• Maintain Grill Temperature: Preheat your grill properly to medium heat before placing the pineapple on it. This ensures even cooking and nice grill marks.
• Watch Cooking Time: Grill each side for about 6-8 minutes; adjust based on how caramelized you like them.
• Experiment with Spices: Don’t hesitate to try different spices like nutmeg or allspice along with cinnamon for varied flavor profiles.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Pineapple Recipe

Grilled pineapple can be enjoyed alongside several delicious side dishes. Here are some great options to complement your meal.

1. Coleslaw: A creamy coleslaw adds crunch and tanginess that balances the sweetness of the pineapple.
2. Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn seasoned with butter and lime makes for a delightful summer pairing.
3. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad tossed with cherry tomatoes and cucumbers offers freshness alongside the sweetness.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add depth and earthiness, making it an excellent contrast to the fruitiness.
5. Black Bean Salad: This hearty salad provides protein and texture while complementing the grilled flavors beautifully.
6. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread provides a savory option that pairs well with sweet dishes like grilled pineapple.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your grilled pineapple recipe, avoiding common mistakes can enhance your dish significantly.

• Using unripe pineapple: An unripe pineapple can be too tart and hard. Always choose ripe pineapples that yield slightly to pressure for the best flavor.
• Not preheating the grill: Skipping this step can lead to uneven cooking. Make sure your grill is at medium heat before adding the pineapple spears.
• Overcrowding the grill: Placing too many spears at once can cause steaming instead of grilling. Grill in batches to ensure each piece gets that perfect char.
• Skipping the oil mixture: Not brushing the pineapple with oil can lead to sticking and dryness. Always apply the oil, honey, and cinnamon mixture generously for a tasty caramelization.
• Not serving immediately: Grilled pineapple is best enjoyed fresh off the grill. Serving it too late may result in a loss of texture and flavor.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep the grilled pineapple away from other strong-smelling foods to preserve its flavor.

Freezing Grilled Pineapple Recipe

• Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag.
• It can be stored for up to 3 months; ensure all air is removed from the bag.

Reheating Grilled Pineapple Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in 30-second intervals until warm. Avoid overheating to maintain texture.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes on each side until heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I choose the perfect pineapple for my grilled pineapple recipe?

Look for pineapples that are golden-yellow with a sweet aroma at the base. The leaves should be green and healthy.

Can I use canned pineapple in this grilled pineapple recipe?

While fresh is best, you can use canned pineapple slices. Just make sure they are well-drained before grilling.

What other flavors pair well with grilled pineapple?

Consider adding lime juice or ginger for a tropical twist. These flavors complement the sweetness of your grilled pineapple recipe beautifully.

How do I serve grilled pineapple?

You can serve grilled pineapple plain, drizzled with honey, or on top of yogurt or ice cream for dessert.

Final Thoughts

This grilled pineapple recipe is not only simple but also incredibly versatile. Its sweet and smoky flavor makes it a perfect side dish or dessert option. Feel free to customize it by adding spices or serving alongside different toppings. Try this recipe today and enjoy its delightful taste!