This honey glazed grilled pineapple is a sweet treat that makes your mouth water! The juicy pineapple gets a lovely caramelized finish, making it perfect for dessert or a special BBQ side.
I love to serve this with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top—it’s a match made in heaven! 🍦Plus, grilling brings out the pineapple’s sweetness. Give it a try at your next cookout!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: A ripe pineapple gives the best flavor for this dish. Look for one that’s slightly soft to the touch and has a sweet aroma at the base. If fresh pineapples aren’t available, you can use canned pineapple slices. Just drain them well.
Honey: Honey adds a natural sweetness. If you’re looking for a vegan option, agave syrup works beautifully too. Maple syrup can be another tasty alternative, offering a different flavor profile.
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice brightens the dish. If you don’t have limes, lemon juice is a good substitute. Just remember, it will have a slightly different taste but still adds that needed acidity.
Cinnamon: While optional, ground cinnamon gives a warm flavor that pairs well with pineapple. If you’re not a fan, you can skip it or replace it with a sprinkle of nutmeg or even cardamom for a unique twist.
Mint Leaves: Fresh mint brings a refreshing touch. If mint isn’t available, try using basil or even a sprinkle of coconut flakes for a tropical vibe instead.
How Do You Grill Pineapple Without Sticking?
Grilling pineapple can be tricky if it’s not properly prepared. To prevent sticking, start by preheating the grill to a medium-high heat. It’s important to clean the grill grates and oil them lightly before cooking.
- Use cooking spray or a paper towel dipped in oil to coat the grates.
- Make sure to flip the pineapple only once during grilling to prevent it from tearing apart.
- Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side. The grill marks should be a good indicator that it’s ready to flip!
Enjoying perfectly grilled pineapple is all about patience and a little TLC on the grill! Happy cooking!
How to Make Honey Glazed Grilled Pineapple?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Grilled Pineapple:
- 1 ripe pineapple
- Cooking spray or oil for grilling
For the Glaze:
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
For Garnish:
- Fresh mint leaves (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious grilled pineapple recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and another 10 minutes to grill. So, in around 20 minutes, you’ll have a sweet and tangy treat ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This step is important to achieve those lovely grill marks and caramelization on the pineapple.
2. Prepare the Pineapple:
Next, take your ripe pineapple and carefully remove the skin and core. Once that’s done, slice the pineapple into 1/2-inch thick rings. Try to make them even so they cook nicely on the grill.
3. Make the Glaze:
In a small bowl, mix the honey and lime juice together. If you like, add the ground cinnamon for a warm, spicy kick. Stir everything well until it’s nicely combined.
4. Brush the Pineapple:
Using a brush, gently coat both sides of the pineapple rings with the honey-lime mixture. Make sure they are well covered to maximize that sweet flavor!
5. Prepare the Grill:
To prevent the pineapple from sticking, lightly spray the grill grates with cooking spray or brush them with a little oil. This helps ensure your pineapple rings come off the grill easily.
6. Grill the Pineapple:
Now, it’s time to grill! Place the pineapple rings on the hot grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side. You want to see nice grill marks and for the pineapple to become caramelized and tender.
7. Finish with the Glaze:
Once grilled to perfection, remove the pineapple from the grill. Drizzle any remaining honey mixture over the top for an extra touch of sweetness.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, add a few fresh mint leaves on top for a pop of color and flavor. Now, it’s ready to serve and enjoy your delightful Honey Glazed Grilled Pineapple!
Can I Use Canned Pineapple Instead of Fresh Pineapple?
While fresh pineapple yields the best flavor and texture, you can use canned pineapple if needed. Make sure to drain the canned pineapple well and pat it dry to prevent excess moisture on the grill. Keep in mind that grilling time may be shorter, so monitor closely!
What If I Don’t Have Honey?
No worries! You can substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for a similar sweetness. Just keep the same measurement. If you prefer a low-calorie option, consider using a sugar-free syrup instead!
How to Store Leftover Grilled Pineapple?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the grill for a couple of minutes to enjoy it warm again. You can also repurpose it in smoothies or as a topping for yogurt!
Can I Add Other Spices or Flavors?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different spices like ginger or nutmeg, or add a splash of rum for a tropical twist. Just remember to adjust the amounts to your taste, and enjoy getting creative!
