The next time you get a sweet craving, try this fantastic grilled pineapple. This delightful dessert is perfect for barbecues, summer parties, or even a cozy night in. With its caramelized exterior and juicy sweetness, grilled pineapple is sure to impress your guests. Pair it with ice cream or serve it atop pancakes for a unique twist that everyone will love!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can create a delicious dessert that looks like it came from a five-star restaurant.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy grilled pineapple on its own, or pair it with ice cream, yogurt, or as a topping for grilled meats.
- Sweet and Savory Flavor: The combination of brown sugar and cinnamon enhances the natural sweetness of the pineapple while adding depth to each bite.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a casual family dinner, this dessert fits right in.
- Healthy Indulgence: Made from fresh fruit, this recipe offers a guilt-free way to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Tools and Preparation
To make this grilled pineapple, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly. Having the right equipment not only makes the process easier but also helps achieve the best flavor.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Grill or grill pan
- Sharp knife
- Zip-top bag
- Small bowl
- Whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- Grill or grill pan: This is essential for achieving that signature charred flavor and beautiful grill marks on the pineapple.
- Sharp knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts when preparing the pineapple, making the process quicker and safer.
Ingredients
For the Grilled Pineapple
- 1 fresh pineapple
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1/4 cup dark brown sugar
- 1/4 cup dark rum, optional
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch salt
How to Make Grilled Pineapple
Step 1: Prepare the Pineapple
- Use a sharp knife to cut off the top and bottom of the pineapple and remove the rind.
- Cut the pineapple into 3/4-1-inch spears or rings.
- Use a small cutter to remove the core of the rings.
- Place the prepared pineapple into a large zip-top bag and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Marinade
- In a small bowl, whisk together:
- Melted butter
- Dark brown sugar
- Dark rum (if using)
- Ground cinnamon
Pinch of salt
Once well combined, pour this marinade into the zip-top bag with the pineapple.
- Gently toss to coat all pieces of fruit in the marinade.
- Place in the fridge for 20-30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Step 3: Grill the Pineapple
- Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium heat until it reaches about 375-400°F.
- Remove the pineapple from the bag and place it on the grill.
- Cook for 4-6 minutes per side, brushing each side with any excess marinade as it cooks.
Step 4: Serve Your Grilled Pineapple
- Once cooked through with nice grill marks, transfer your grilled pineapple to a platter.
- Serve immediately while warm and enjoy!
How to Serve Grilled Pineapple
Grilled pineapple is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want something simple or a bit more extravagant, there are plenty of options to satisfy your sweet cravings.
With Ice Cream
- A scoop of vanilla or coconut ice cream pairs perfectly with the warm, caramelized flavors of grilled pineapple.
As a Topping for Pancakes
- Slice the grilled pineapple and use it as a topping for fluffy pancakes. Drizzle with maple syrup for added sweetness.
In a Fruit Salad
- Combine grilled pineapple with other fresh fruits like strawberries and mango for a tropical fruit salad that’s refreshing and colorful.
On Skewers
- Thread pieces of grilled pineapple onto skewers with shrimp or chicken for a fun and tasty grilling option at your next barbecue.
With Yogurt
- Serve slices of grilled pineapple over Greek yogurt for a healthy breakfast or snack that feels indulgent.
As a Garnish in Cocktails
- Use grilled pineapple wedges as a unique garnish in cocktails. They add a smoky sweetness that enhances drinks like mojitos or piña coladas.
How to Perfect Grilled Pineapple
To get the best results with your grilled pineapple, follow these simple tips.
- Choose ripe pineapples: Look for pineapples that are slightly soft to the touch and have a sweet aroma at the base.
- Cut evenly: Ensure all pieces are cut uniformly to allow even cooking on the grill.
- Marinate longer: If time allows, marinate the pineapple for an hour or two to enhance its flavor.
- Preheat your grill: Make sure your grill is hot before placing the pineapple on it; this helps achieve those beautiful grill marks.
- Don’t overcrowd the grill: Give each piece space to ensure even cooking and prevent steaming.
- Serve immediately: Grilled pineapple is best enjoyed fresh off the grill when it’s warm and juicy.
Best Side Dishes for Grilled Pineapple
Grilled pineapple makes an excellent addition to many meals. Here are some side dishes that complement its sweet, smoky flavor beautifully.
- Coconut Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with coconut milk offers a rich, creamy balance to the sweetness of grilled pineapple.
- Black Bean Salad: A zesty black bean salad adds protein and fiber while contrasting nicely with the fruit’s sweetness.
- Quinoa Salad: Tossed with fresh herbs and lemon, quinoa salad provides a nutritious and filling side that’s light yet satisfying.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds texture and freshness, making it a perfect companion at summer cookouts.
- Grilled Veggies: Seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus complement the flavors of grilled pineapple perfectly.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter enhances those caramelized notes from the fruit, making it an ideal pairing.
- Tortilla Chips with Salsa: The crunchiness of chips paired with spicy salsa offers a great contrast to the soft sweetness of grilled pineapple.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries dipped in aioli bring a savory element that balances out the dessert-like quality of grilled pineapple.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making grilled pineapple, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here’s how to avoid them.
- Skipping the Marinade: Not marinating the pineapple can result in bland flavors. Always marinate for at least 20 minutes to enhance sweetness.
- Using an Unripe Pineapple: A green or unripe pineapple will be tough and sour. Choose a ripe one with a sweet aroma for the best taste.
- Cooking on Too High Heat: Grilling at excessively high temperatures can burn the outside while leaving the inside raw. Maintain medium heat for even cooking.
- Overcooking the Fruit: Leaving the pineapple on the grill too long can lead to mushiness. Aim for 4-6 minutes per side to maintain its texture.
- Not Removing the Core: Forgetting to remove the core makes it difficult to enjoy. Take time to cut out the core for better bites.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store grilled pineapple in an airtight container.
- It lasts up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Grilled Pineapple
- Place grilled pineapple in freezer-safe bags or containers.
- It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Grilled Pineapple
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and reheat for about 10 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30 seconds at a time until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Sauté in a pan over low heat with a touch of butter until heated.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about grilled pineapple that may help you as you prepare this delicious dessert.
Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?
Yes, but fresh pineapple will provide better flavor and texture.
How do I know when my grilled pineapple is done?
It should have nice grill marks and be slightly caramelized but still firm.
What can I serve with grilled pineapple?
Grilled pineapple pairs wonderfully with vanilla ice cream or yogurt, adding a delightful contrast.
Is grilled pineapple healthy?
Absolutely! It’s low in calories and packed with vitamins, making it a nutritious dessert option.
Can I make grilled pineapple ahead of time?
Yes, you can grill it in advance and reheat before serving for convenience.
Final Thoughts
This grilled pineapple recipe is not only quick and easy but also versatile. You can customize it by adding different spices or serving sauces. Whether as a delightful dessert or a refreshing snack, it’s sure to satisfy your sweet cravings!
Grilled Pineapple
Grilled pineapple is a sweet and smoky treat that transforms fresh fruit into an irresistible dessert. Perfect for any gathering, this easy-to-make dish features caramelized pineapple spears or rings, enhanced with a delightful blend of brown sugar and cinnamon. Whether served alone, paired with creamy ice cream, or as a topping on pancakes, grilled pineapple adds a tropical flair to your table. Ideal for summer barbecues or cozy evenings, this recipe promises to impress guests and satisfy your sweet cravings without guilt.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: Serves about 4 people
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Tropical
Ingredients
- 1 fresh pineapple
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1/4 cup dark brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare the pineapple: Cut off the top and bottom, remove the rind, then slice into 3/4-1 inch spears or rings.
- Make the marinade: Whisk together melted butter, dark brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and salt in a bowl.
- Marinate: Place the pineapple in a zip-top bag, pour in the marinade, toss to coat, and refrigerate for 20-30 minutes.
- Grill: Preheat your grill to medium heat (375-400°F). Grill pineapple for 4-6 minutes per side until charred and caramelized.
- Serve warm on its own or with ice cream.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
