This honey glazed grilled pineapple is a sweet and sunny treat! The juicy pineapple gets a delicious caramel-like flavor from the honey when grilled. It’s perfect for summer BBQs!
Honestly, I can’t resist pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It feels like a tropical getaway on a plate! 🍍🍦
Making it is a breeze—just slice, brush with honey, and toss it on the grill. It’s quick, easy, and such a crowd-pleaser!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: A ripe pineapple is key for this recipe. Look for one that’s fragrant and has a little give when pressed. If fresh isn’t available, you can use canned pineapple rings, though fresh will give you the best texture and taste.
Honey: Honey adds natural sweetness and a sticky glaze. If you’re vegan or need a substitute, maple syrup or agave nectar works well and will still give you that lovely glaze.
Lime Juice: Lime adds a zesty punch, balancing the sweetness of honey. You can use lemon juice if lime isn’t on hand, or even orange juice for a different citrus flavor.
Cinnamon: Though it’s optional, cinnamon adds warmth and spice. If you like spices, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or ginger instead for a different twist.
Mint Leaves: Fresh mint as a garnish enhances the flavor and adds a pop of color. If you don’t have mint, you can skip it or try basil for a unique herb touch!
How Do You Cut and Prepare Pineapple Safely?
Cutting a pineapple can be a bit tricky, but it’s easy when you take it step by step. Here’s how to do it safely:
- Start with a sharp knife. Cut off both the top and bottom of the pineapple to create a stable base.
- Stand the pineapple upright and carefully slice off the outer skin, following the curve of the fruit.
- After peeling, cut the pineapple in half lengthwise, then remove the core by cutting a V shape around it.
- Finally, slice the fruit into 1/2-inch thick rings for grilling.
Using this method keeps your hands safe and helps you avoid missing any of that juicy fruit. Enjoy your perfectly cut pineapple!
How to Make Honey Glazed Grilled Pineapple?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Grilled Pineapple:
- 1 medium ripe pineapple
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish will take about 10 minutes to prepare and around 8 minutes to grill. Altogether, you can whip up this tasty treat in just 18 minutes. Perfect for a quick dessert or a sweet side dish at a cookout!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This will help you achieve those gorgeous grill marks on your pineapple and give it a nice char!
2. Prepare the Pineapple:
Slice off the top and bottom of the pineapple to create a stable base. Then, carefully cut away the outer skin using a sharp knife. Once done, remove the hard core and cut the pineapple into 1/2-inch thick rings. These rings will be perfect for grilling!
3. Make the Honey Glaze:
In a small bowl, mix together the honey and lime juice until well combined. If you like a bit of spice, feel free to add the ground cinnamon for an extra flavor boost!
4. Glaze the Pineapple:
Using a brush or spoon, generously coat both sides of the pineapple rings with the honey mixture. Make sure they are well covered to get that sweet and sticky glaze.
5. Grill the Pineapple:
Place the honey-glazed pineapple rings on the preheated grill. Grill them for about 3-4 minutes on each side. Look for nice grill marks and check that the pineapple is heated through. You’ll love the smell as it cooks!
6. Drizzle and Garnish:
Once grilled, take the pineapple off the grill and drizzle any remaining honey glaze over the top for an extra touch of sweetness. If you want to make it fancy, add some fresh mint leaves on top for garnish!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Your honey glazed grilled pineapple is ready to be served warm! Enjoy it as a delightful dessert or a refreshing side dish. It’s perfect for sunny days and outdoor meals!
Can I Use Other Sweeteners Instead of Honey?
Absolutely! You can substitute honey with maple syrup, agave nectar, or brown sugar if you prefer a different flavor or need a vegan alternative. Just keep the ratios the same for the best results!
How Do I Choose a Ripe Pineapple?
Look for a pineapple that feels heavy for its size and has a sweet fragrance at the base. The skin should be golden, and the leaves should be green and fresh. If the pineapple has some brown spots, it’s okay, but avoid ones with large blemishes or an overly soft texture.
Can I Prepare This in Advance?
Yes, you can prep the pineapple by cutting it and mixing the honey glaze ahead of time. Just store the pineapple in an airtight container in the fridge and brush it with the honey mixture right before grilling to maintain freshness!
How Should I Store Leftover Grilled Pineapple?
Store any leftover grilled pineapple in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can enjoy it cold, or reheat it on the grill or in a pan for a few minutes to warm it up again!
