Grilled Pineapple

Grilled Pineapple: A Sweet and Smoky Delight!

Imagine biting into a thick, juicy slice of pineapple that’s been kissed by the grill—sweet and smoky, with caramelized edges and a warm, inviting aroma. Grilled pineapple is not just a delectable treat; it’s a fun and easy way to bring a tropical flair to your dining table. Did you know that grilling brings out the natural sugars in pineapple, transforming this everyday fruit into a gourmet dessert? It’s a delightful twist that’s incredibly simple to prepare and perfect for family gatherings or summer barbecues.

What makes grilled pineapple truly special is its versatility. Whether enjoyed alone, topped with yogurt, or piled onto burgers for an unexpected burst of flavor, it’s a crowd-pleaser. It’s also quick to whip up—seriously, you can go from slicing to serving in just 15 minutes! If you’ve enjoyed our popular vanilla ice cream recipe, you’ll find that grilled pineapple is just as rewarding, bringing an entirely different dimension to your meals. So grab your grilling tools, and let’s dive into the world of grilled pineapple!

What is Grilled Pineapple?

Grilled pineapple—sounds fancy, right? But it’s really just as simple as grilling up some fresh pineapple slices. But why do they call it “grilled pineapple” in the first place? Is there a secret pineapple grilling club we don’t know about? Picture this: You slice the fruit, throw it on a hot grill, and watch it transform into a caramelized masterpiece! It’s a bit like magic, don’t you think? As they say, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and trust me, grilling pineapple will win over anyone’s taste buds! So, if you’re ready to join the pineapple grill club, let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Grilled Pineapple

The main highlight of grilled pineapple is undoubtedly its delightful transformation from fresh to caramelized. The grilling process intensifies the pineapple’s natural sweetness, creating a luscious flavor profile that is simply irresistible. Best of all, making grilled pineapple at home is a cost-effective option compared to expensive dessert options you might find in restaurants. Plus, it only requires a handful of ingredients!

Sprinkle on a bit of cinnamon or drizzle honey on top, and you’ve created a fantastic dessert that’s sure to impress anyone. Compared to other fruity desserts like sorbet, grilled pineapple offers a unique, smoky sweetness that pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. So gather your grilling gear and try whipping up this delicious treat at home—your taste buds will thank you!

How to Make Grilled Pineapple

Quick Overview

Grilled pineapple is a simple yet delicious dish that can be ready in about 15 minutes. The best part? You don’t need any gourmet skills to achieve a great result! All you need is a hot grill, fresh pineapple, and a bit of creativity with toppings. So fire up that grill, and let’s get started!

Key Ingredients for Grilled Pineapple

• 1 whole ripe pineapple
• 2 tablespoons of brown sugar (optional)
• 1 tablespoon of cinnamon (optional)
• A pinch of salt (for flavor)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Pineapple: Start by removing the skin of the pineapple and cutting it into thick slices (about 1-inch thick). Feel free to use a pineapple corer for ease!
2. Preheat the Grill: Bring your grill to medium heat—this is key for getting those beautiful char marks while keeping the inside juicy.
3. Optional Coating: If you decide to add sweetness, mix brown sugar and cinnamon together. Brush the mixture lightly onto one side of the pineapple slices.
4. Grill: Place the pineapple slices on the grill, cut-side down. Grill for around 3-4 minutes until you see lovely grill marks.
5. Flip and Finish: Carefully flip the slices over and grill for another 3-4 minutes. Look for that caramelized, golden color!
6. Serve and Enjoy: Remove the grilled pineapple from the grill, sprinkle with salt if desired, and serve warm. Enjoy as is, or serve over ice cream for a delightful dessert!

What to Serve Grilled Pineapple With

Grilled pineapple pairs beautifully with several side dishes and drinks! It complements savory grilled meats, adds a refreshing touch when served alongside salads, or enhances a tropical-themed fruit salad. For drinks, try pairing it with a refreshing mojito or a sweet iced tea. Each pairing enhances the experience and takes your meal to new tropical heights!

Top Tips for Perfecting Grilled Pineapple

• Choose a Ripe Pineapple: Opt for a pineapple that smells sweet at the base and is slightly soft to the touch. This ensures maximum sweetness after grilling.
• Minimize Sugar: If your pineapple is very ripe, consider skipping added sugar. The natural sweetness can stand on its own!
• Prep Ahead: Cut your pineapple ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge until you’re ready to grill.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Grilled pineapple can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you have any leftovers—though that’s unlikely—they reheat well on a grill or sauté pan over medium heat for about 1-2 minutes. You can also freeze grilled pineapple in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months! Just make sure to let it cool before freezing.

Now that you have everything you need to create this delicious and easy dish, it’s time to fire up the grill and enjoy the sweet, smoky flavor of grilled pineapple! Your taste buds will be dancing in delight with every juicy bite!

Grilled Pineapple: A Sweet and Smoky Delight!

Imagine biting into a thick, juicy slice of pineapple that's been kissed by the grill—sweet and smoky, with caramelized edges and a warm, inviting aroma. Grilled pineapple is not just a delectable treat; it’s a fun and easy way to bring a tropical flair to your dining table.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients

  

• 1 whole ripe pineapple
• 2 tablespoons of brown sugar optional
• 1 tablespoon of cinnamon optional
• A pinch of salt for flavor

Instructions

 

• Prepare the Pineapple: Start by removing the skin of the pineapple and cutting it into thick slices (about 1-inch thick). Feel free to use a pineapple corer for ease!
• Preheat the Grill: Bring your grill to medium heat—this is key for getting those beautiful char marks while keeping the inside juicy.
• Optional Coating: If you decide to add sweetness, mix brown sugar and cinnamon together. Brush the mixture lightly onto one side of the pineapple slices.
• Grill: Place the pineapple slices on the grill, cut-side down. Grill for around 3-4 minutes until you see lovely grill marks.
• Flip and Finish: Carefully flip the slices over and grill for another 3-4 minutes. Look for that caramelized, golden color!
• Serve and Enjoy: Remove the grilled pineapple from the grill, sprinkle with salt if desired, and serve warm. Enjoy as is, or serve over ice cream for a delightful dessert!