This honey glazed grilled pineapple is a tasty treat that combines sweetness with a smoky flavor. The caramelized edges are simply mouthwatering!
Grilling pineapple makes it juicy and fun to eat. I love serving it with ice cream for a special twist—who doesn’t love a warm and cool combo? 🍍🍦
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple is the star here! Look for one that’s ripe, with a sweet smell near the base. If you can’t find fresh, canned pineapple slices can work but may lack the same charred flavor.
Honey: Regular honey works beautifully, but you can use agave syrup or maple syrup if you’re looking for a vegan option. Both will add sweetness but with a slightly different flavor profile.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is perfect for this recipe. If you’re out, feel free to substitute with coconut oil for a tropical hint or any neutral oil.
Cinnamon: This spice adds warmth and depth. If you don’t like cinnamon, a pinch of nutmeg or even some chili powder can provide a unique twist.
Mint leaves: Fresh mint leaves are optional, but they give a nice freshness. If mint isn’t available, try basil for a different but delicious herb kick.
How Do I Grill Pineapple Without Burning It?
Grilling pineapple can be tricky because it cooks fast! Here’s how to get it just right:
- Start with a preheated grill. Medium-high heat is key—too low, and it won’t caramelize; too high, and it may burn.
- Cut the pineapple into thick rings (1/2-inch). This helps them hold their shape on the grill.
- Brush the honey glaze on only just before grilling to avoid burning the sugars in the honey.
- Keep an eye on the pineapple. Grill for 3-4 minutes per side, until you see nice grill marks. This means it’s caramelizing!
Lastly, if it gets a little too charred for your taste, don’t worry! A slight caramelizing adds wonderful flavor that many love.
How to Make Honey Glazed Grilled Pineapple?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Grilled Pineapple:
- 1 fresh pineapple
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
For Garnish:
- Fresh mint leaves (optional)
- Lemon or lime juice (for drizzling, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and another 8 minutes to grill, making it a quick and delightful dish. You’ll have delicious grilled pineapple ready in just 18 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat, which should be about 350-400°F (175-200°C). This ensures that the pineapple cooks evenly and gets those lovely grill marks!
2. Prepare the Pineapple:
Next, take your fresh pineapple and slice it into 1/2-inch thick rings. Don’t forget to remove the core from each ring to make them easier to eat. It’s like cutting little rings of sunshine!
3. Make the Honey Glaze:
In a small bowl, mix together the honey and olive oil until they’re well blended. If you want to add a little extra flavor, sprinkle in the cinnamon and mix it in. This glaze will give your pineapple a sweet, delicious flavor while grilling.
4. Brush the Rings:
Using a brush or a spoon, generously coat both sides of each pineapple ring with your honey glaze. Make sure each piece is well-covered to achieve that beautiful caramelization!
5. Grill the Pineapple:
Place the glazed pineapple rings on the hot grill. Let them cook for about 3-4 minutes on one side. You’re looking for nice grill marks to form and for the pineapple to caramelize just a bit. Then, flip them over and grill for another 3-4 minutes on the other side. It’s almost too easy!
6. Serve and Garnish:
Once the pineapple is beautifully grilled, take it off the grill and transfer it to a serving platter. If you like, you can drizzle a little lemon or lime juice over the top for some zing. Finish it off by garnishing with fresh mint leaves to give it a lovely touch!
7. Enjoy!
Serve your warm, honey glazed grilled pineapple as a delightful dessert or as a sweet side dish with grilled meats. Either way, it’s sure to be a hit. Enjoy your creation!
Can I Use Canned Pineapple Instead of Fresh?
While fresh pineapple has the best flavor and texture for grilling, you can use canned pineapple as a substitute if necessary. Just make sure to drain it well to avoid excess moisture, and grill it for a shorter time since it’s already cooked. Aim for about 2-3 minutes on each side.
How Can I Customize the Glaze?
Absolutely! You can switch up the flavors in the glaze by adding a splash of vanilla extract, a sprinkle of nutmeg, or even some chili powder for a spicy kick. Just remember to whisk everything together until well combined and adjust to your taste.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover grilled pineapple in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To enjoy it again, simply reheat it on the grill for a few minutes or in the microwave until warmed through, which can enhance its sweetness!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the honey glaze and slice the pineapple in advance. Just keep the sliced pineapple and glaze separate in the fridge until you’re ready to grill. This way, your pineapple stays fresh and ready for grilling when you want it!
