Grilled Pineapple

If you’re looking for a delightful dessert that’s both simple and impressive, you’ve come to the right place! This Grilled Pineapple recipe is perfect for those sweet cravings that hit unexpectedly. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a gathering with family and friends, this dish will always bring smiles to the table. The natural sweetness of the pineapple combined with warm, buttery goodness makes it a favorite in our home.

I love how versatile this recipe is; it’s not just a dessert but can also be served on top of pancakes for brunch or alongside grilled meats at your next barbecue. Trust me, once you taste this grilled treat, you’ll be adding it to your list of go-to recipes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few ingredients, you can whip up this tasty treat in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet, caramelized flavor of grilled pineapple.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, this dish fits right in.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Marinate the pineapple ahead of time, so it’s ready to grill when you are!
• Deliciously Versatile: Enjoy it as a dessert or as a unique side dish to your favorite meals.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be pleased to know that these ingredients are simple and wholesome. Let’s gather what we need for our delicious Grilled Pineapple!

• 1 fresh pineapple
• 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 fun variations to try:

• Add Some Spice: Mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little kick.
• Try Different Sweeteners: Use maple syrup or agave nectar instead of brown sugar for different flavor profiles.
• Garnish Creatively: Top with chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or a drizzle of honey after grilling for added texture and flavor.
• Fruit Medley: Grill other fruits like peaches, mangoes, or even bananas alongside your pineapple for an amazing fruit platter.

How to Make Grilled Pineapple

Step 1: Prepare the Pineapple

Start by cutting off the top and bottom of the pineapple and then carefully remove the rind. Slice the fruit into spears or rings about 3/4 to 1-inch thick. Don’t forget to use a small cutter to take out the core from the rings! Placing the pineapple into a large zip-top bag keeps everything tidy while marinating.

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 will enhance the natural sweetness of the pineapple and add depth with its rich flavors. Pour this marinade over the pineapple in the bag, seal it up, and give it a gentle toss so that every piece is coated well.

Step 3: Grill It Up

Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium heat at about 375-400°F. Once hot, place your marinated pineapple on the grill. Cook for 4-6 minutes per side; brushing with any remaining marinade will help caramelize those sugars beautifully! Keep an eye on them so they get those lovely grill marks without burning.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Once perfectly grilled, transfer your delicious pineapple onto a platter. Serve immediately while they’re warm—the aroma alone will have everyone excited! Enjoy them as they are, or pair them with ice cream for an extra special treat!

And there you have it—your new favorite way to enjoy Grilled Pineapple! I can’t wait for you to try this recipe; I know you’ll love it just as much as I do!

Pro Tips for Making Grilled Pineapple

Grilling pineapple is easier than you might think, and with these tips, you’ll ensure each bite is bursting with flavor!

• Select a ripe pineapple: Choose a pineapple that is fragrant and slightly soft to the touch at the bottom. This ensures maximum sweetness and juiciness when grilled.
• Marinate for flavor: Allowing the pineapple to marinate in the buttery cinnamon mixture not only infuses it with flavor but also helps to caramelize beautifully on the grill.
• Use medium heat: Cooking at 375-400°F provides the perfect temperature for caramelizing the sugars without burning, resulting in perfectly charred fruit.
• Keep an eye on grilling time: Grilling for 4-6 minutes per side ensures that the pineapple gets those lovely grill marks while remaining tender and juicy. Too long, and it may become mushy!
• Experiment with spices: Don’t be afraid to add other spices like nutmeg or ginger to your marinade for a unique twist on flavor. It can elevate your grilled pineapple to a whole new level!

How to Serve Grilled Pineapple

Serving grilled pineapple is all about presentation and pairing it with delightful accompaniments that enhance its natural sweetness.

Garnishes

• Fresh mint leaves: A sprinkle of finely chopped mint adds a refreshing touch that complements the sweet flavors of the grilled pineapple.
• Toasted coconut flakes: Scatter some toasted coconut over the top for added texture and tropical flair.
• Lime zest: A light dusting of lime zest brightens up the dish and enhances its tropical vibe.

Side Dishes

• Coconut rice: The creamy coconut flavor pairs beautifully with the sweetness of grilled pineapple, creating a harmonious balance on your plate.
• Quinoa salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with chopped vegetables and a light vinaigrette provides a healthy contrast to the rich dessert.
• Grilled shrimp skewers: These savory skewers add a delightful protein element that goes wonderfully with the sweet fruit, making it perfect for a summer cookout.
• Yogurt parfait: Layering yogurt with granola and fresh fruit creates a light and satisfying side that works well as both dessert or breakfast after enjoying your grilled pineapple!

Enjoy this delightful dish any time you want to impress guests or just treat yourself! Happy grilling!

Make Ahead and Storage

This grilled pineapple recipe is fantastic for meal prep! You can easily prepare the marinade and cut the pineapple ahead of time, making it a quick dessert to whip up when you need something sweet.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the grilled pineapple to cool completely.
• Place it in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Cut any leftover grilled pineapple into smaller pieces if desired.
• Place the pieces on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid.
• Transfer the frozen pieces to a zip-top bag or airtight container for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• To reheat, warm the grilled pineapple on a grill pan over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side, brushing with any leftover marinade if desired.
• Alternatively, microwave in short intervals (15-20 seconds) until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delicious grilled pineapple recipe.

Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh for grilled pineapple?

While fresh pineapple is ideal for grilling due to its texture and flavor, you can use canned pineapple. Just make sure to drain it well and pat it dry before grilling, as excess moisture may prevent proper caramelization.

How do I achieve perfect caramelization on my grilled pineapple?

To achieve perfect caramelization on your grilled pineapple, ensure that your grill is preheated properly. Cooking at medium-high heat allows the sugars in the fruit to caramelize beautifully. Don’t forget to brush with marinade during grilling for extra flavor!

Can I make grilled pineapple ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the marinade and cut the pineapple ahead of time. Store them separately until you’re ready to grill for best results.

What should I serve with grilled pineapple?

Grilled pineapple pairs wonderfully with vanilla ice cream, yogurt, or as a topping for pancakes or waffles. It also makes a delightful addition to fruit salads or smoothies!

Final Thoughts

I hope this grilled pineapple recipe adds a touch of sweetness to your day! It’s simple, delicious, and perfect for sharing with friends and family. Enjoy every bite as you savor that caramelized goodness. Happy grilling!