When I first decided to try grilling pineapple, I thought, “how hard can it be?” It was my first time, but I was convinced I would nail it! I picked out a juicy, ripe pineapple from the store, feeling like a real pro. The first surprise was just how sweet the pineapple smelled when I sliced it up. I was tempted to dive right in!
I tossed the slices onto the grill, and oh man, the smell that wafted through the air was incredible! I did slightly overcook the first batch, not realizing how quickly those cute little pineapple slices would caramelize. Lesson learned—I tweaked the cooking time for my next batch, and I am so glad I did. The perfect caramelization makes all the difference!
Grilling pineapple was a fantastic way to enjoy a dessert that felt a little luxurious while being totally simple to prepare. It turned into a fun “let’s show off our cooking skills” moment with friends. Even the burnt bits turned out delicious in a sweet way—seriously, everything was gobbled up!
Grilled Pineapple
Ingredients
- 1 ripe pineapple You can use canned pineapple rings in a pinch, but fresh is better!
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar White sugar or honey can work too for some extra sticky goodness!
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon Leave it out if you're not a fan or add a little nutmeg for a twist!
- 1 tablespoon melted coconut oil or melted butter Olive oil could work as a healthier substitute!
- Optional toppings: Yogurt mint leaves, or even a sprinkle of lime juice!
Instructions
- Prep the Pineapple: Start by slicing off the top and bottom of your pineapple. Stand it upright and carefully slice off the skin, following the curve of the fruit. After removing all the eyes (those little brown dots), cut the pineapple into long, thick slices that are about 1 inch. You can also cut them into rings if you prefer!
- Mix the Flavoring: In a small bowl, combine brown sugar and cinnamon. If you’d like it sweeter or spicier, feel free to adjust the amounts!
- Coat the Pineapple: Brush your pineapple slices with melted coconut oil or butter. Then sprinkle that sugar-cinnamon mixture on top, making sure each slice gets a good amount.
- Preheat the Grill: Fire up your grill! You want it nice and hot, about medium heat (around 375°F). If you’re using a grill pan, that works great too!
- Grill Away: Place the pineapple on the grill, making sure it’s not too crowded. Grill for about 4–5 minutes on each side or until nice grill marks appear and it's beautifully caramelized. Don’t walk away, or those sweet slices could turn into charred bits!
- Serve It Up: Once they’re done, take them off the heat. You can enjoy them warm, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, in a fruit salad, or all on their own. Trust me; they’re delicious every way!
Nutrition Facts
| Serving Size | Calories | Fat | Carbohydrates | Fiber | Sugar | Protein |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 serving | 80 | 3g | 15g | 1g | 10g | 1g |
5 Tips for This Recipe
- Use a ripe pineapple: Look for a sweet aroma, and don’t be afraid to give it a little squeeze—just a bit of give is perfect!
- Try marinating: For added flavor, marinate slices in a mix of lime juice and honey for a few hours before grilling.
- Experiment with spices: Swap out cinnamon for cardamom or ginger for different flavors!
- Keep a close eye on the grill: Pineapple can go from delicious to charred in seconds, so check frequently.
- Serve with a splash: A little fresh lime juice drizzle when serving really elevates the flavor!
5 FAQs for This Recipe
- Can I grill other fruits?
Absolutely! Mango, peaches, and watermelon are fantastic on the grill! - What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. - Can I use canned pineapple?
Sure! Just keep in mind it won’t have that same fresh texture. - Do I need a grill to make grilled pineapple?
Nope! You could use an oven broiler or a grill pan on your stovetop. - Can I freeze leftover grilled pineapple?
Yes! Just freeze them in a single layer before transferring to a bag.
5 Storage Tips
- Always let your grilled pineapple cool completely before refrigerating.
- Dicing leftovers will help them cool faster and be ready for snacks later!
- Label your leftovers with the date in case you forget how long they’ve been chilling.
- Don’t store grilled pineapple with other fruits—they tend to spoil faster!
- Used a vacuum-sealed bag to keep leftover pineapple as fresh as possible in the freezer.
5 Common Cooking Mistakes
- Cutting too thin: Too thin and they might fall apart on the grill. Aim for 1-inch slices!
- Overcooking: Keep an eye on the time! It can go south real quick!
- Not preheating the grill: Starting on a cold grill can make your pineapple mushy.
- Too much sugar: Moderation is key! Too much can lead to burning.
- Skimping on oil: Don’t skip the oil! It helps prevent sticking and gives flavor.
Final Thoughts
Grilling pineapple is not only easy but so rewarding, bringing out amazing flavors that can be used in various ways—from snacks to desserts! Whether it’s for yourself or a gathering with friends, this recipe is a surefire win. If I can nail it on my first try with a sprinkle of trial and error, so can you!
Give it a go and feel free to play around with different spices or side dishes! You might just find your new favorite addition to summer meals. Happy grilling, everyone!
