Grilled Pineapple

Grilled pineapple is a tropical delight that combines the natural sweetness of the fruit with a smoky, charred flavor from the grill. The added touch of brown sugar, chili powder, and a hint of lime juice elevates the pineapple to a whole new level, making it the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and spicy. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing dessert, a side dish, or a fun addition to your barbecue, this Grilled Pineapple recipe is sure to impress.

The grill caramelizes the sugars in the pineapple, creating a slightly crispy exterior while maintaining a juicy and tender interior. The combination of warm spices and the zesty lime juice adds complexity to the flavor, making each bite a unique and satisfying experience. This recipe is quick, easy, and ideal for summer gatherings, casual weeknight dinners, or as a light snack.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Sweet and Smoky Flavor: Grilling the pineapple brings out its natural sweetness, while the smoky flavor from the grill adds depth.
2. Simple Ingredients: Made with just a few pantry staples, it’s a quick and easy treat that requires minimal effort.
3. Unique Flavor Combination: The balance of sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy from the chili powder and cinnamon creates a one-of-a-kind taste experience.
4. Versatile: Serve it as a dessert, a side dish, or even as a topping for ice cream, yogurt, or salads.
5. Perfect for Grilling: It’s an ideal recipe for barbecues or any outdoor cooking event, adding a refreshing tropical element to your spread.

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Ingredients

• 1 pineapple, cored and sliced into rings
• Unsalted butter, melted
• Lime juice (from ½ lime)
• Brown sugar
• Chili powder
• Ground cinnamon
• Kosher salt

Variations

• Add a Rum Glaze: For an extra tropical flair, brush the pineapple rings with a rum glaze made from dark rum and brown sugar before grilling.
• Minty Pineapple: Add freshly chopped mint to the pineapple after grilling for a refreshing touch.
• Spicy Kick: If you like it spicier, increase the amount of chili powder or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Coconut Topping: Sprinkle some toasted shredded coconut on top of the grilled pineapple for a tropical crunch.
• Caramelized Pineapple: Drizzle some honey or maple syrup over the grilled pineapple before serving to enhance the sweetness.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using a grill pan, heat it over medium-high heat on the stovetop.

Step 2

In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, lime juice, brown sugar, chili powder, cinnamon, and kosher salt until well combined.

Step 3

Brush the pineapple rings with the butter and spice mixture on both sides, ensuring they are evenly coated.

Step 4

Place the pineapple rings on the grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until grill marks appear and the pineapple is tender and slightly caramelized.

Step 5

Once grilled, remove the pineapple rings from the grill and serve immediately. You can garnish with extra lime wedges or a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use a Grill Basket: If you’re worried about the pineapple rings falling through the grill grates, use a grill basket to keep them intact.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Grill: Give the pineapple rings enough space on the grill so they cook evenly and get a nice sear.
• Watch the Heat: Make sure the grill is not too hot, as the sugar in the pineapple can burn quickly. Medium heat is ideal for getting that perfect caramelization.
• Use Fresh Pineapple: Fresh pineapple will give you the best flavor and texture. Avoid using canned pineapple for grilling, as it tends to be too soft and lacks the natural sugars that caramelize well on the grill.

How to Serve

• Serve the grilled pineapple as a side dish with grilled meats like chicken, pork, or fish for a tropical-inspired meal.
• Pair it with a scoop of vanilla or coconut ice cream for a refreshing dessert.
• Top grilled pineapple with whipped cream, yogurt, or granola for a quick and healthy snack.
• Serve it alongside a tropical fruit salad for a colorful and vibrant dish at summer parties or barbecues.
• Add it to your morning smoothie bowl or on top of oatmeal for a sweet breakfast option.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Grilled pineapple can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, it’s best enjoyed fresh for optimal flavor and texture.

Freezing

You can freeze grilled pineapple, but the texture will change once it’s thawed. To freeze, let the pineapple cool completely, then place the rings in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze for 2-3 hours before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw before serving.

Reheating

To reheat grilled pineapple, place the rings back on the grill for 1-2 minutes per side or heat them in a skillet over medium heat until warm.

FAQs

1. Can I use canned pineapple?

For the best texture and flavor, fresh pineapple is recommended. Canned pineapple will be too soft and won’t caramelize the same way.

2. How do I cut a pineapple for grilling?

To prepare the pineapple, slice off both ends, stand it up, and carefully cut off the skin in strips. Then, cut the pineapple into rings or wedges, removing the core from each ring.

3. Can I use a grill pan instead of an outdoor grill?

Yes, a grill pan on the stovetop works perfectly. Preheat it over medium-high heat and follow the same instructions for grilling.

4. Is it possible to make this recipe without the butter?

Yes, you can substitute the butter with coconut oil or any other plant-based oil if you want to make it dairy-free or lower in fat.

5. Can I make this recipe sweeter?

Yes, you can increase the amount of brown sugar or drizzle honey or maple syrup over the pineapple after grilling for extra sweetness.

6. Can I prepare the pineapple ahead of time?

While grilling the pineapple right before serving yields the best flavor, you can prep the pineapple and the butter mixture ahead of time and refrigerate. Grill the pineapple just before serving.

7. Can I add other spices to the mix?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with spices like nutmeg, cardamom, or allspice for a unique twist on the flavor.

8. Can I grill the pineapple on a charcoal grill?

Yes, a charcoal grill adds a smoky flavor to the pineapple, enhancing its natural sweetness. Just be sure to control the heat to avoid burning.

9. Can I serve grilled pineapple with other fruits?

Grilled pineapple pairs wonderfully with other tropical fruits like mango, papaya, or coconut. Feel free to mix and match for a fruit platter.

10. Can I make this recipe without the chili powder?

Yes, if you prefer a milder version, simply omit the chili powder for a purely sweet and spiced flavor from the cinnamon and brown sugar.

Conclusion

Grilled Pineapple is a deliciously simple and versatile dish that brings together the best of tropical flavors. The balance of sweetness, spice, and tang makes it a perfect addition to any meal or a refreshing dessert for warm weather gatherings. Whether served as a side dish at a BBQ or paired with ice cream for a treat, this Grilled Pineapple recipe is sure to become a favorite in your grilling repertoire. With minimal ingredients and a few easy steps, you can enjoy the irresistible flavors of this tropical delight anytime!

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