Introduction to Grilled Pineapple
There’s something magical about summer evenings spent outdoors, isn’t there?
Grilled pineapple takes those warm vibes and elevates them straight to dessert heaven.
Imagine the sweet, tropical aroma wafting from your grill, with juicy rings caramelizing to perfection.
This delightful treat is not just easy to whip up, but it also brings a burst of sweetness to your dinner table that everyone will love.
Whether you’re enjoying a family cookout or a quiet evening, this grilled pineapple will surely be the star of the show.
Trust me; your taste buds will thank you!
Why You’ll Love This Grilled Pineapple
This grilled pineapple recipe is a game-changer for busy evenings. It’s quick to prepare, taking just 10 minutes of grilling for a delightful dessert. The sweet and spicy glaze transforms fresh pineapple into a treat that bursts with flavor. Plus, it’s a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with various meals, satisfying even the pickiest eaters in your family. You’ll love how effortlessly it elevates any occasion!
Ingredients for Grilled Pineapple
When it comes to grilling pineapple, fresh ingredients truly make a difference. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Pineapple: Look for ripe pineapples with a sweet scent. Fresh fruit will give that delicious tropical flavor!
- Unsalted Butter: This creamy base adds richness. Opt for unsalted so you can control the seasoning.
- Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice adds a zesty kick that balances the sweetness of the pineapple.
- Brown Sugar: This encourages caramelization on the grill, creating that delightful sweetness we all crave.
- Chili Powder: Just a dash of this adds a subtle heat. You can adjust the amount according to your family’s spice tolerance.
- Ground Cinnamon: A sprinkle of cinnamon gives a warm, comforting flavor that complements the sweetness of the fruit.
- Kosher Salt: This simple ingredient enhances all the flavors, bringing everything together beautifully.
If you’re feeling adventurous, consider options like a drizzle of honey for added sweetness or a sprinkle of coconut for a tropical flair. You’ll find the precise measurements at the bottom of the article, ready for you to print and take to the kitchen!
How to Make Grilled Pineapple
Step 1 – Preheat the Grill
Preheating your grill is crucial for even cooking. Aim for medium-high heat, around 400°F. This ensures that your pineapple rings grill quickly and evenly, creating those appealing caramelized grill marks without turning mushy. Trust me, your patience rewards you here!
Step 2 – Prepare the Butter Mixture
In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, lime juice, brown sugar, chili powder, cinnamon, and kosher salt. This sweet and spicy glaze is what makes the grilled pineapple so irresistible. Ensure everything is well combined for flavor in every bite!
Step 3 – Coat the Pineapple Rings
Using a brush, coat each side of your pineapple rings with the butter mixture. Make sure to cover them evenly for optimal flavor. This buttery glaze helps enhance the natural sweetness while adding a delicious depth with the spices. You’ll love how it all melts together!
Step 4 – Grill the Pineapple
Place the coated pineapple rings on the preheated grill. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side. You want those beautiful grill marks to form while the fruit becomes tender and caramelized. Keep an eye on them; you don’t want to miss that golden goodness!
Step 5 – Serve and Garnish
Once grilled, remove the pineapple rings and serve immediately. For an added touch, drizzle any leftover glaze over the top or sprinkle a little cinnamon. Pair with vanilla ice cream for a delightful experience that brings summer right to your plate!
Tips for Success
- Always choose a ripe pineapple for the best flavor.
- Let the butter mixture cool slightly before brushing it on; this prevents it from running off.
- Don’t overcrowd the grill; give each ring space for even cooking.
- Experiment with additional spices like paprika for extra flavor.
- Serve the grilled pineapple warm for the best taste experience!
Equipment Needed
- Grill: A gas or charcoal grill works perfectly. If you don’t have one, an indoor grill pan is a great alternative.
- Basting Brush: Use a silicone brush for easy coating. A regular kitchen brush can work in a pinch.
- Mixing Bowl: Any medium-sized bowl will do for whisking the butter mixture.
- Tongs: Grab a pair to easily flip those sweet pineapple rings without burning your fingers.
Variations of Grilled Pineapple
- Spiced Rum Glaze: Add a splash of your favorite spiced rum to the butter mixture for a tropical twist that elevates the flavors.
- Coconut-Infused: Sprinkle shredded coconut on the pineapple before grilling for an extra layer of texture and flavor.
- Brown Sugar and Vanilla: Mix a teaspoon of vanilla extract into the butter mixture for a richer, sweeter glaze.
- Herb-Infused: Add finely chopped fresh mint or basil to the glaze for a refreshing herbal note that surprises the palate.
- Grill with Peppers: Pair your pineapple with slices of jalapeño or bell pepper on the grill for a savory-sweet experience that adds depth to your dish.
Serving Suggestions for Grilled Pineapple
- Ice Cream: Serve warm grilled pineapple over vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast in temperature and texture.
- Fresh Mint: Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and added freshness.
- Your Favorite Drink: Pair with a refreshing mojito or sweet iced tea to keep the tropical vibes flowing.
- Breakfast: Use as a topping on pancakes or waffles for a special morning treat.
- Party Platter: Arrange the grilled pineapple on a platter with other grilled fruits for a beautiful summer dessert display.
FAQs about Grilled Pineapple
Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?
While fresh pineapple yields the best flavor, you can use canned pineapple in a pinch. Just make sure to drain it well. Canned fruit will not caramelize the same way, but it’s still a delicious alternative.
What can I do with leftovers?
Leftover grilled pineapple can be added to smoothies for a tropical flair or chopped up and mixed into yogurt for a quick breakfast. You could also toss it into a salad for a sweet twist!
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make a vegan version, substitute the unsalted butter with coconut oil or vegan butter. This will keep the sweet and spicy taste while being plant-based friendly.
Is grilled pineapple gluten-free?
Absolutely! Grilled pineapple is naturally gluten-free, making it a fantastic option for gatherings with gluten-sensitive guests. Everyone will enjoy this treat!
Can I grill other fruits the same way?
Definitely! Many fruits, like peaches, mangoes, and watermelon, grill beautifully. Just adjust the cooking time according to the fruit’s density to ensure it caramelizes perfectly.
Final Thoughts on Grilled Pineapple
Grilled pineapple is more than just a dessert; it’s an experience that transforms a simple meal into a festive occasion. The sweet aroma fills the air, conjuring memories of sun-soaked afternoons and laughter with loved ones. Each bite brings a harmony of flavors; the sweetness of the caramelized fruit dances with the warm spice, creating pure bliss. Whether you serve it at a backyard barbecue or as a special treat after dinner, grilled pineapple is sure to leave your family asking for seconds. Trust me; this delightful dish is a celebration on a plate!
Print
Grilled Pineapple
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Tropical
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Grilled Pineapple is a delicious, caramelized dessert that brings out the tropical flavors of fresh pineapple, enhanced with a sweet and spicy buttery glaze.
Ingredients
- 1 pineapple, cored and sliced into rings
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted (½ stick)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (from ½ lime)
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- ¼ teaspoon chili powder
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ⅛ teaspoon kosher salt
Instructions
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, lime juice, brown sugar, chili powder, cinnamon, and kosher salt.
- Brush each side of the pineapple rings with the butter mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Place the pineapple rings on the grill and cook for 2–3 minutes on each side, or until grill marks appear and the pineapple is tender and caramelized.
- Remove the pineapple from the grill and serve immediately.
- Optionally, garnish with a sprinkle of additional cinnamon or a drizzle of the remaining butter glaze before serving.
Notes
- Make sure to use fresh pineapple for the best flavor.
- Adjust the spice level by varying the amount of chili powder.
- This dish pairs well with vanilla ice cream or yogurt.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ring
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
