Grilled Pineapple

If you’re looking for a delightful way to satisfy your sweet tooth, let me share one of my absolute favorites: Grilled Pineapple! This treat is not only simple to whip up but also brings a burst of tropical flavor that feels like a mini-vacation on your plate. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just enjoying a cozy evening at home, this dessert is sure to impress.

What makes grilled pineapple so special is its versatility. It’s the perfect ending to a summer barbecue or a sweet surprise on busy weeknights. Just imagine those caramelized edges topped with a scoop of your favorite ice cream—it’s heaven!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few steps, you can create an impressive dessert that tastes like you’ve spent hours in the kitchen.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the sweet, smoky flavors. It’s a fun way to get everyone excited about dessert!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the pineapple marinade ahead of time, making it an ideal choice for gatherings or weeknight treats.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of caramelized sugar and warm spices elevates this dish, making every bite truly unforgettable.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this delectable grilled pineapple, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients. Don’t worry; they are easy to find and straightforward to use!

For the 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 recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun variations you can try:

• Add Some Spice: Toss in a pinch of cayenne pepper for an unexpected kick that pairs beautifully with the sweetness.
• Try Different Fruits: Swap out pineapple for peaches or nectarines for a different fruity twist.
• Serve with Yogurt: Instead of ice cream, top your grilled pineapple with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
• Drizzle with Honey: A drizzle of honey after grilling can add another layer of sweetness and flavor.

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. Cutting it into 3/4-1-inch spears or rings makes it easy to grill and serve. Remember to remove the core from the rings; this allows for easier eating and helps prevent any tough bites.

Step 2: Make the Marinade

In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, dark brown sugar, vanilla extract (if using), ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until everything is well combined. This marinade is what gives our grilled pineapple its irresistible flavor. Once mixed, pour it into the zip-top bag with the pineapple pieces and toss gently to coat each piece.

Step 3: Marinate

Place your coated pineapple in the fridge for about 20-30 minutes. This step is important as it allows all those yummy flavors to soak into the fruit before grilling!

Step 4: Grill It Up

Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium heat (375-400°F). Once it’s nice and warm, place your marinated fruit on there. Grill for about 4-6 minutes per side, brushing each side with leftover marinade as it cooks. This caramelizes the sugars wonderfully and gives those beautiful grill marks we all love!

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, transfer your grilled pineapple onto a platter and serve immediately while it’s warm! Pairing it with ice cream will take this treat over the top and make everyone come back for seconds—trust me on this one!

Pro Tips for Making Grilled Pineapple

Grilling pineapple is a delightful way to enhance its natural sweetness and create a show-stopping dessert!

• Choose a ripe pineapple: Opt for a yellowish-brown, slightly soft pineapple to ensure the best flavor and sweetness.
• Let it marinate: Allowing the pineapple to soak in the marinade for 20-30 minutes enhances its flavor and caramelizes better on the grill.
• Preheat your grill properly: Ensuring your grill is hot before placing the pineapple helps achieve those beautiful grill marks and prevents sticking.
• Don’t overcrowd the grill: Give each piece enough space to cook evenly; this ensures they caramelize beautifully without steaming.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add nutmeg or cayenne pepper to your marinade for an unexpected twist that adds depth to the flavor.

How to Serve Grilled Pineapple

Serving grilled pineapple can be as simple or as fancy as you desire! Here are some creative ideas to present this delicious dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh mint leaves: A sprinkle of mint adds a refreshing touch and brightens up the flavor profile.
• Toasted coconut flakes: These provide a lovely crunch and enhance the tropical vibe of your grilled pineapple.

Side Dishes

• Coconut rice: This creamy, subtly sweet dish complements the grilled pineapple’s flavors beautifully, creating a balanced meal.
• Black bean salad: A zesty black bean salad adds protein and texture, making it a hearty side that pairs perfectly with the fruit’s sweetness.
• Grilled veggies: Colorful veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus bring a savory balance to the sweet pineapples while keeping everything on the grill!
• Yogurt parfait: Layering yogurt with granola and fruits creates an enticing dessert that balances out the warm grilled pineapple with cool creaminess.

Now you’re ready to impress your family and friends with this deliciously easy grilled pineapple recipe! Enjoy every sweet bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This grilled pineapple recipe is perfect for meal prep and can be easily made ahead of time. Whether you’re planning a barbecue or just want a delicious dessert on hand, here’s how to store it properly!

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover grilled pineapple in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It should stay fresh for up to 3 days.
• To maintain its flavor, consume it within this time frame.

Freezing

• Although freezing can alter the texture slightly, you can freeze grilled pineapple if desired.
• Place the cooled pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them until solid.
• Transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag, where it can last for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• To reheat, place the grilled pineapple on a grill or in a pan over medium heat for a few minutes until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave it in short bursts, checking frequently to avoid overheating.

FAQs

Have questions about making grilled pineapple? Here are some common inquiries!

Can I use other fruits for grilling besides pineapple?

Absolutely! Many fruits like peaches, mangoes, and watermelon grill beautifully. Just adjust cooking times based on the fruit’s texture.

What makes this Grilled Pineapple recipe special?

This Grilled Pineapple recipe combines sweet caramelization with buttery goodness, making it a delightful dessert that’s easy to prepare and impressively delicious.

How do I know when my Grilled Pineapple is done?

Look for grill marks and a slight char on each side. The fruit should be tender but not mushy; typically, 4-6 minutes per side is ideal.

Is there a way to make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Simply substitute the butter with coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative for an equally tasty vegan version of grilled pineapple.

Can I serve Grilled Pineapple as part of a savory dish?

Certainly! Grilled pineapple pairs wonderfully with savory dishes like salads or tacos. It adds a sweet contrast that enhances many flavors.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this fantastic grilled pineapple recipe! It’s not only simple but also brings an incredible burst of flavor that will leave everyone asking for more. Whether served as a dessert or added to savory dishes, it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Happy grilling!