This honey glazed grilled pineapple is the perfect treat for summer! Sweet pineapple slices are grilled until they get those lovely caramelized marks and a touch of honey makes them extra special.
Trust me, serving these at a barbecue is a sure way to impress your friends. Who knew fruit could be this delicious? I love serving mine with vanilla ice cream for a refreshing twist!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: A ripe pineapple is key for the best flavor. Look for one that is slightly soft and sweet-smelling. You can substitute with canned pineapple slices, but fresh gives the best texture and flavor.
Honey: Use your favorite honey for sweetness. If you’re looking for a vegan option, agave nectar or maple syrup can work well too. Just remember, the flavor will change slightly, but it will still be delicious!
Cinnamon: This adds a warm touch to your grilled pineapple, but is totally optional. If you’re not a cinnamon fan, you can skip it or even use other spices like nutmeg or allspice for a different flavor.
Fresh Mint: Great for garnish and adds a fresh note! If mint isn’t available, you could use basil or leave it out entirely.
Cooking Spray: This is for grease prevention. If you prefer natural options, you can brush the grill with oil or butter.
How Do I Grill Pineapple to Perfectly Caramelize It?
Grilling pineapple to achieve that beautiful caramelization is all about timing and temperature. You want the grill hot enough to sear the fruit without burning it.
- Preheat your grill; medium heat is your friend here.
- Slice your pineapple into even rings to ensure they cook uniformly.
- Grease the grill to keep the pineapple from sticking—this makes flipping much easier!
- Grill each side for 3-4 minutes until you see those lovely grill marks and the pineapple looks caramelized. Be patient—it’s worth it!
Take care not to leave the pineapple for too long, as it can become mushy. Enjoy your sweet and smoky treat!
How to Make Honey Glazed Grilled Pineapple?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Honey Glaze:
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon (optional)
For the Pineapple:
- 1 medium ripe pineapple
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish
- Cooking spray or brush for grilling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Honey Glazed Grilled Pineapple recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 8-10 minutes of grilling. In total, you’ll be enjoying this delightful treat in just under 20 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium heat. If you’re using a grill pan, just place it over medium heat on your stovetop. This will help get those tasty grill marks on your pineapple!
2. Slice the Pineapple:
Now, it’s time to get your pineapple ready. Peel off the skin and remove the core. Then, slice the pineapple into 1/2-inch thick rounds. Remember to cut through the core so you get beautiful, even rings!
3. Make the Honey Mixture:
In a small bowl, combine the honey with the cinnamon (if you like a little spice!) until they are well mixed. This sweet glaze is what will make your grilled pineapple extra special.
4. Prep the Grill Grates:
To prevent the pineapple from sticking, lightly grease the grill grates using cooking spray or a brush. This little step will save you some trouble later!
5. Grill the Pineapple Rings:
Place the pineapple rings on the grill and brush or drizzle each slice with the honey mixture. Grill the pineapple for about 3-4 minutes on each side. You’ll know it’s ready when you see nice grill marks and the pineapple is beautifully caramelized!
6. Serve and Garnish:
Once the pineapple is done, carefully remove it from the grill and place the slices on a serving platter. To add a fresh touch, garnish with mint leaves before you dig in. Enjoy your warm grilled pineapple as a delightful dessert, a tasty side dish, or even as a yummy topping for ice cream or yogurt!
Can I Use Canned Pineapple Instead of Fresh?
While fresh pineapple gives the best flavor and texture, you can use canned pineapple if that’s what you have on hand. Just make sure to drain it well and pat it dry with paper towels before grilling to avoid excess moisture, which can prevent caramelization.
How to Adjust the Sweetness Level?
If you prefer a sweeter or less sweet version, feel free to adjust the amount of honey. You can start with 2 tablespoons and increase it gradually to taste. Alternatively, if it’s too sweet for your liking, you can balance it with a squeeze of fresh lime juice before grilling.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Grilled Pineapple?
Store any leftover grilled pineapple in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can enjoy it cold or reheat it on the grill or in a microwave for a few seconds to warm it up before serving.
Can I Add Other Spices or Flavors?
Absolutely! You can experiment with various spices like nutmeg, ginger, or even a hint of cayenne pepper for some heat. Additionally, adding a splash of lime or orange juice to the honey mixture can add a refreshing zing!
