This honey glazed grilled pineapple is a sweet treat that adds a tropical twist to your meal! The juicy pineapple caramelizes beautifully on the grill, creating a delicious sticky coating.
Honestly, who can resist that warm, sweet goodness? I like to serve it as a fun dessert or a side with grilled meats. It’s like a mini vacation on your plate! 🍍
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: A ripe pineapple is key for sweet, juicy flavor. Look for one with a sweet smell at the base and firm, slightly soft skin. If pineapple isn’t available, you can try other fruits like peaches or mango for grilling.
Honey: Honey is great for its natural sweetness. If you’re looking for a vegan option, agave syrup or maple syrup works well in place of honey.
Lime Juice: Lime juice adds tanginess. If you don’t have fresh limes, bottled lime juice is fine! Lemon juice can also be a good alternative if you’re in a pinch.
Cinnamon: While cinnamon adds warmth, it’s optional. If you’re not a fan, skip it! Or, consider using nutmeg or allspice for a different flavor twist.
Fresh Mint: Mint gives a fresh touch. If you don’t have any, try using basil or parsley. They can add their unique flavor to the dish.
How Do I Cut a Pineapple Safely and Easily?
Cutting a pineapple can be tricky, but with the right steps, it’s safe and simple. Here’s how to do it:
- First, place the pineapple on its side to stabilize it.
- Cut the top and bottom off to create a flat base.
- Stand the pineapple upright and slice off the skin in strips, carefully removing any eye spots left behind.
- Once peeled, slice the pineapple into 1/2-inch thick rings. You can use a small cookie cutter to remove the core from each ring easily.
Taking your time and using a sharp knife will help you make nice, even cuts. This way, your grilled pineapple looks great and cooks evenly! Enjoy this delicious treat!
How to Make Honey Glazed Grilled Pineapple
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Grilled Pineapple:
- 1 medium ripe pineapple
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
- Cooking spray or oil for grilling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious grilled pineapple recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 8-10 minutes to grill. In total, you’re looking at around 20 minutes to create a fresh, tasty dessert that’s sure to impress!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium heat. This will help you achieve those perfect grill marks and caramelized flavors on your pineapple.
2. Prepare the Pineapple:
Carefully cut off the top and bottom of the pineapple to create a sturdy base. Once that’s done, stand the pineapple upright and cut the skin off in long strips, making sure to remove all the brown “eyes.” This will ensure a smooth, sweet bite without any bitterness.
3. Slice the Pineapple:
Now, slice the pineapple into 1/2-inch thick rings. After slicing, use a small knife or a corer to remove the tough core from each ring. This will make for a more pleasant eating experience!
4. Mix the Glaze:
In a small bowl, combine the honey, lime juice, and optional cinnamon. Stir until everything is well mixed. This sweet and tangy glaze will make your grilled pineapple extra delicious!
5. Brush the Pineapple:
Using a brush or a spoon, generously coat both sides of each pineapple ring with the honey mixture. Make sure each ring is well covered to enhance the flavor during grilling.
6. Prepare the Grill:
Before placing the pineapple on the grill, lightly grease the grill with cooking spray or a bit of oil. This helps prevent the pineapple from sticking and ensures easy flipping!
7. Grill the Pineapple:
Place the honey-coated pineapple rings on the grill. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until you see lovely grill marks and the edges start to caramelize. This is when the pineapple becomes sweet and juicy!
8. Drizzle and Serve:
Once grilled to perfection, take the pineapple off the grill. Drizzle any remaining honey mixture over the rings for an extra burst of flavor. It’s going to be so delicious!
9. Garnish and Enjoy:
If you’d like, add fresh mint leaves as a garnish for a lovely presentation. Serve your warm honey glazed grilled pineapple as a scrumptious dessert or snack. Enjoy every sweet bite!
Can I Use Canned Pineapple Instead of Fresh Pineapple?
While fresh pineapple is recommended for the best flavor and texture, you can use canned pineapple rings. Make sure to drain the rings well and briefly pat them dry to avoid extra moisture on the grill. Reduce the grilling time to about 2 minutes per side, as they are already partially cooked.
What Can I Substitute for Honey?
If you’re looking for a honey substitute, agave nectar, maple syrup, or even a fruit syrup can work well. Keep in mind that the flavor will be slightly different, but they can still add sweetness. Start with the same amount and adjust to taste.
How to Store Leftover Grilled Pineapple?
Store any leftover grilled pineapple in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To enjoy later, you can eat it cold, toss it into a salad, or reheat it briefly on the grill or in a microwave to refresh the flavors.
Can I Add Other Spices or Ingredients?
Absolutely! You can customize the honey mixture by adding a splash of vanilla extract, a pinch of nutmeg, or even some chili powder for a spicy kick. Get creative with your favorite flavors to find the perfect combination!
