This honey glazed grilled pineapple brings a sweet, tropical twist to your barbecue! The warm, juicy fruit topped with a sticky honey glaze is simply delightful.
You’ll love how easy it is to make! Just slice, brush with honey, and grill for a few minutes. It’s the perfect treat to impress your friends—and it’s great on ice cream too!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: A ripe pineapple is key for the best flavor. Choose one that smells sweet at the base and has a slight give when pressed. If you can’t find fresh pineapple, canned pineapple slices can work, but drain them well to avoid too much moisture on the grill.
Honey: Honey adds natural sweetness. If you’re looking for a vegan option, agave nectar works just as well. Maple syrup is another available choice, but it will give a different flavor, a bit earthier.
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice brings brightness to the dish. If you don’t have lime, lemon juice is a good stand-in. Just remember to adjust the amount to your taste since lemon can be a bit stronger.
Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon really enhances the flavors, but it’s optional. If you’re looking for a twist, try nutmeg or a pinch of ginger for a different spice profile.
How Do I Grill Pineapple Perfectly?
Grilling pineapple is easy but requires attention to achieve that caramelized look and taste. The grilling enhances the natural sugars for a wonderful dessert. Here’s how to do it:
- Preheat your grill to medium heat. This helps caramelize the sugars without burning the fruit.
- Ensure your pineapple rings are about 1/2 inch thick; thinner pieces may fall through the grill.
- Generously brush both sides with the honey glaze. Don’t be shy; this enhances flavor and prevents sticking.
- Grill for 3-4 minutes per side. Look for those nice grill marks and a bit of caramelization to know it’s ready.
- Let them cool slightly after grilling. This helps the honey glaze set and makes handling easier.
How to Make Honey Glazed Grilled Pineapple
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 ripe pineapple
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious grilled pineapple recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 8 minutes of grilling time. So, in total, you’ll need about 18 minutes to enjoy this sweet treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Grill:
First things first, preheat your grill to medium heat. This will ensure that when you’re ready to cook, the grill is nice and hot for perfectly grilled pineapple.
2. Cut the Pineapple:
Grab your ripe pineapple and cut off the top and bottom with a sharp knife. This will give you a stable base. Next, slice the pineapple into 1/2-inch thick rings. Don’t forget to carefully remove the core from each ring using a small knife—nobody wants to bite into tough center pieces!
3. Make the Honey Glaze:
In a small bowl, mix together the honey and lime juice until they are well combined. For an extra punch of flavor, you can stir in the ground cinnamon if you like. This gives a lovely warmth and spice, but it’s totally optional!
4. Glaze the Pineapple:
Now, take those beautiful pineapple rings and brush both sides generously with your sweet honey glaze. Make sure each ring is coated well—this will help them caramelize nicely on the grill!
5. Grill the Pineapple:
Place the glazed pineapple rings on the hot grill. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes on each side. You’re looking for those lovely grill marks and a caramelized surface. This is where the magic happens!
6. Cool and Garnish:
Once they’re perfectly grilled, remove the pineapple from the grill and let it cool slightly—just a few minutes will do! While it cools, gather some fresh mint leaves to garnish.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Finally, garnish your grilled pineapple with the fresh mint leaves. You can serve it as a delightful dessert or a sweet side dish. Enjoy the tropical flavors and the nice caramelized sweetness!
## FAQ for Honey Glazed Grilled Pineapple
Can I Use Canned Pineapple for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use canned pineapple, but fresh pineapple will yield the best flavor and texture. If you choose canned, make sure to drain it well and pat the rings dry with paper towels to avoid excess liquid that could cause sticking on the grill.
What Can I Substitute for Honey?
If you’re looking for a substitute, maple syrup or agave nectar can be great alternatives to honey! They will provide the sweetness you need, but they will slightly change the flavor profile. Use the same amount as the honey in the recipe.
How Do I Store Leftover Grilled Pineapple?
To store leftovers, place the cooled grilled pineapple in an airtight container and refrigerate. It should stay fresh for about 3-4 days. You can enjoy it cold, or reheat it briefly on the grill or in the microwave for a warm treat!
Can I Add Other Spices to the Honey Glaze?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment by adding other spices such as nutmeg, ginger, or even a pinch of cayenne for a little heat. Just keep in mind that a little goes a long way, so add spices gradually and taste as you mix!
