This honey glazed grilled pineapple is a burst of sweetness and sunshine! Grilling brings out the natural flavors and the honey makes it extra delightful. It’s a tasty treat everyone will love!
I like to serve it warm as a side for BBQs or just enjoy it on its own. It’s so easy to make, and who can resist that sticky, yummy glaze? Perfect for summer vibes! 🍍✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fresh Pineapple: Choose a ripe pineapple for the best flavor. Look for one that is slightly soft at the bottom and has a sweet smell. If fresh isn’t available, canned pineapple (in juice, not syrup) can work in a pinch, but grilled fresh is unbeatable!
Honey: This recipe highlights honey’s natural sweetness. If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, you can use agave nectar or maple syrup. Both provide a unique taste that pairs well with pineapple.
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice brightens the dish. If you don’t have limes, lemon juice is a good substitute. Just remember, the flavor will be slightly different, but still refreshing!
Cinnamon: This is optional but adds a warm spice that enhances the sweetness. If you’re not a fan, you can skip it or try nutmeg for a different twist.
Fresh Mint Leaves: They not only beautify your dish but add a fresh taste. If you don’t have mint, basil could also work, giving it a unique flavor!
How Do I Cut a Pineapple Safely and Effectively?
Cutting a pineapple can seem tricky, but with a few simple steps, you’ll have perfect rings in no time. Make sure to use a sharp knife for safety and precision.
- Start by removing the top and bottom of the pineapple to create a stable base.
- Stand the pineapple upright and slice downwards to remove the skin. Be sure to cut deep enough to get rid of the eyes.
- Once peeled, lay the pineapple on its side and cut it into 1/2 inch rings, then remove the core using a small round cutter or the knife.
Take your time when cutting. It’s all about getting nice, even pieces that will grill beautifully!
How to Make Honey Glazed Grilled Pineapple
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Grilled Pineapple:
- 1 fresh pineapple
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- Fresh mint leaves (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 10 minutes to prepare and around 8 minutes to grill. So you’re looking at roughly 18 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick dessert or a sweet side dish for your summer cookout!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium heat. This will ensure that your pineapple gets that perfect caramelized texture and delicious grill marks.
2. Cutting the Pineapple:
Next, take your fresh pineapple and cut it into about 1/2 inch thick rings. Make sure to carefully remove the core from each ring. This will help ensure that each bite is sweet and tender!
3. Mixing the Honey Glaze:
In a small bowl, mix together the honey, lime juice, and cinnamon if you choose to use it. This sweet glaze will add a tasty kick to your grilled pineapple.
4. Glazing the Pineapple:
Now, take your pineapple rings and brush them generously with the honey mixture on both sides. The more glaze, the sweeter your pineapple will be when it’s grilled!
5. Grilling the Pineapple:
Place your glazed pineapple rings onto the grill. Grill them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until you see nice grill marks and the pineapple is caramelized. This will enhance the flavor and sweetness of the pineapple!
6. Garnishing and Serving:
Once grilled, remove the pineapple from the grill and garnish with fresh mint leaves. This adds a lovely touch of freshness to the sweet, warm pineapple.
7. Enjoy!
Serve your honey glazed grilled pineapple warm, either as a delightful dessert or a tasty side dish. It’s sure to be a hit! Enjoy your creation!
Can I Use Canned Pineapple Instead of Fresh?
While fresh pineapple is recommended for the best flavor and texture, you can use canned pineapple. Just be sure to drain it well and pat it dry with paper towels to prevent excess moisture from affecting the grilling process. The grilling time may be shorter, so keep an eye on it!
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 it later, you can simply eat it cold, or reheat it on the grill or in a hot skillet for a few minutes until warmed through.
Can I Adjust the Sweetness of the Honey Glaze?
Absolutely! If you prefer a less sweet version, you can reduce the amount of honey to 2 tablespoons and add a touch more lime juice for balance. If you like it sweeter, feel free to increase the honey or add a sprinkle of brown sugar to the glaze.
What Other Fruits Can I Grill with This Recipe?
Great question! Besides pineapple, you can grill other fruits like peaches, nectarines, or watermelon. Just slice them to about 1/2 inch thickness and follow the same brushing and grilling method. Enjoy experimenting with different flavors!
