Grilled Pineapple

If you’re looking for a sweet treat that’s both simple and delicious, you’ve come to the right place! This grilled pineapple recipe is one of my all-time favorites. Not only is it easy to whip up, but it also brings a burst of tropical flavor to any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or just want a special dessert for a busy weeknight, this dish will surely impress.

The best part? Grilled pineapple is incredibly versatile. It’s perfect on its own, but if you add a scoop of your favorite ice cream, you’ll be in dessert heaven. Trust me; once you try it, you’ll keep coming back for more!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, this recipe is perfect for busy evenings.
• Deliciously Sweet: The caramelization from grilling enhances the natural sweetness of the pineapple—what’s not to love?
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore this treat. It’s sure to become a family favorite!
• Versatile Dessert: Serve it as is, or pair with ice cream or yogurt for an extra special touch.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Marinate the pineapple ahead of time and grill it when you’re ready to enjoy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this delightful grilled pineapple, all you need are some simple and wholesome ingredients. No fuss here—just fresh flavors that shine through!

For the Pineapple

• 1 fresh pineapple

For the Marinade

• 1/4 cup butter, melted
• 1/4 cup dark brown sugar
• 1/4 cup dark vanilla extract (alcohol-free), optional
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Pinch salt

Variations

This grilled pineapple recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some tasty variations you might like to try:

• Add Some Spice: Sprinkle in some cayenne pepper for a sweet and spicy kick!
• Change the Sweetener: Swap dark brown sugar for honey or maple syrup for a different flavor twist.
• Try Different Fruits: Use peaches or mangoes instead of pineapple for a fun fruity mix on the grill.
• Top It Off: Drizzle with chocolate sauce or serve with whipped coconut cream for an indulgent dessert.

How to Make Grilled Pineapple

Step 1: Prepare the Pineapple

Start by using a sharp knife to cut off the top and bottom of your fresh pineapple. Carefully remove the rind to reveal that beautiful fruit inside! Slice the pineapple into spears or rings about 3/4-1 inch thick. If you’re using rings, use a small cutter to remove the core. Placing your cut fruit into a zip-top bag keeps everything tidy as we move on to making our marinade.

Step 2: Make the Marinade

In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, dark brown sugar, dark vanilla extract (if using), ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. This mixture is what will infuse our pineapple with flavor. Once it’s well combined, pour it over your pineapple pieces in the bag. Gently toss them to coat every piece in this sweet goodness before placing them in the fridge for 20-30 minutes.

Step 3: Grill It Up

Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium heat until it’s nice and hot—aiming for around 375-400°F (190-200°C). Lay your marinated pineapple onto the grill and let it cook for 4-6 minutes on each side. Don’t forget to brush each side with any leftover marinade while they cook; this will enhance their flavor even more!

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!

Once beautifully caramelized and tender, transfer your grilled pineapple to a platter. Serve immediately while warm and enjoy every delicious bite! This delightful treat is perfect on its own or paired with ice cream—a combination that will make your heart sing!

Pro Tips for Making Grilled Pineapple

Grilling pineapple is a delightful way to enhance its natural sweetness, and these tips will ensure your grilling experience is a breeze!

• Choose ripe pineapples: Look for pineapples with a sweet aroma and vibrant color. A ripe pineapple ensures maximum flavor and juiciness when grilled.
• Marinate longer: Allowing the pineapple to soak in the marinade for longer (up to an hour) can intensify the flavors, making each bite even more delicious.
• Preheat the grill properly: Ensure that your grill is adequately heated before adding the pineapple. This helps achieve those beautiful grill marks while locking in moisture.
• Use skewers for easier flipping: If you’re grilling spears, consider threading them onto skewers. This makes it easier to turn them without losing any of those caramelized edges!
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to mix up the spices! Adding a pinch of nutmeg or chili powder can give your grilled pineapple an exciting twist.

How to Serve Grilled Pineapple

Serving grilled pineapple can be as fun as making it! Here are some creative ideas to elevate this scrumptious dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh mint leaves: A sprinkle of fresh mint not only adds a pop of color but also provides a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the pineapple.
• Coconut whipped cream: For a tropical flair, serve your grilled pineapple with a dollop of coconut whipped cream – it’s light, creamy, and perfectly complements the fruit.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and herbs pairs beautifully with grilled pineapple, balancing its sweetness with refreshing flavors.
• Grilled vegetables: Colorful veggies like bell peppers and zucchini tossed on the grill add depth to your meal and are a great accompaniment.
• Rice pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with herbs offers a neutral base that allows the flavors of grilled pineapple to shine through while adding heartiness to your plate.
• Yogurt parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and fresh berries makes for a fantastic side dish or dessert option after enjoying grilled pineapple.

Now that you have all these tips and serving suggestions at hand, get ready to impress your family or guests with this delightful grilled pineapple recipe! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This grilled pineapple recipe is perfect for meal prep or entertaining, as it can be made ahead of time and stored for later enjoyment.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the grilled pineapple to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate.
• Consume within 3-4 days for the best flavor.

Freezing

• Cut the grilled pineapple into smaller pieces if desired.
• Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container, where they can be stored for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat on a grill or in a grill pan over medium heat until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, but this may soften the texture slightly.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions that might help you with your grilled pineapple journey!

Can I use canned pineapple for grilling?

While fresh pineapple is recommended for the best flavor and texture, you can use canned pineapple. Just make sure to drain it well before grilling to avoid excess moisture.

How do I make Grilled Pineapple extra sweet?

To enhance the sweetness of your grilled pineapple, you can sprinkle additional brown sugar on top before grilling, or serve it with a drizzle of honey after cooking.

What is the best way to cut a fresh pineapple for grilling?

Cutting off the top and bottom of the pineapple first helps stabilize it. Then slice off the rind and core it into rings or spears as preferred. This ensures even cooking on the grill.

Can I add spices other than cinnamon to my Grilled Pineapple?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with spices like nutmeg, cardamom, or even chili powder if you’re looking for a sweet-and-spicy twist.

Final Thoughts

I hope this grilled pineapple recipe brightens your day just like it does mine! It’s simple, delicious, and perfect for any occasion—from casual dinners to special gatherings. Enjoy making this delightful treat, and don’t hesitate to share your experiences or variations with me! Happy grilling!