This honey glazed grilled pineapple is a sweet and juicy treat that’s perfect for summer! The warm, caramelized flavor mixed with a hint of honey takes your taste buds on a delightful ride.
Grilling gives the pineapple a nice char that you just can’t resist. I love serving it with ice cream for a fun dessert, or just munching on it as a snack—it’s a real crowd-pleaser! 🍍
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: Choose a ripe pineapple for the best flavor. Look for ones with a sweet smell and slightly soft feel. If fresh isn’t available, canned pineapple can work, but it won’t have the same texture and flavor.
Honey: Honey adds sweetness and a lovely glaze. If you’re vegan, agave syrup or maple syrup are great alternatives that will still give a nice glaze.
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice brightens the flavor. You can use lemon juice if lime isn’t available, but the taste will be different. That said, either will add a great zing!
Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon enhances the sweetness of the pineapple. You could also try nutmeg or pumpkin spice for a different twist, especially if you want to experiment!
Fresh Mint: Mint adds a refreshing touch. If you don’t have fresh mint, feel free to skip it or use a sprinkle of dried mint, but fresh is really best.
How Do I Get Perfect Grill Marks on My Pineapple?
Getting those beautiful grill marks is all about preparation and timing. Here are some tips to help:
- Make sure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat. A hot grill helps to caramelize the pineapple quickly.
- Brush the honey mixture on the pineapple just before placing it on the grill to prevent burning. This creates a nice glaze.
- Don’t overcrowd the grill. Give space between the slices for even cooking. Aim for 3-4 minutes on each side, checking for those lovely grill marks.
- If using spears instead of rings, adjust the grilling time slightly, as they will take a bit longer.
After grilling, let the pineapple cool a bit. This helps keep its juices intact and enhances the flavor even more!
How to Make Honey Glazed Grilled Pineapple?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Grilled Pineapple:
- 1 ripe pineapple, peeled and cored
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and another 8-10 minutes to grill. In total, you’ll be looking at around 20 minutes to enjoy this delicious treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This way, it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to cook the pineapple.
2. Slice the Pineapple:
Next, take your peeled and cored pineapple and slice it into 1/2-inch thick rings. If you prefer, you can also cut it into fun spear shapes instead!
3. Make the Honey Mixture:
In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, lime juice, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Make sure everything is well combined for a delicious glaze!
4. Brush the Pineapple:
Now it’s time to brush the honey mixture generously on both sides of the pineapple slices. This glaze will add a wonderful sweet flavor when grilled!
5. Grill the Pineapple:
Place the glazed pineapple rings on the hot grill. Grill each side for about 3-4 minutes. Look for lovely grill marks and some caramelization—that’s when you know they’re ready!
6. Cool and Serve:
Once grilled, carefully remove the pineapple from the grill and let it cool slightly. Serve it warm, and if you like, garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy your honey glazed grilled pineapple either as a sweet dessert or a tasty side dish!
Can I Use Canned Pineapple Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use canned pineapple, but be sure to drain it well and pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This will help achieve a nice caramelization. Note that grilling times may be shorter, about 2-3 minutes per side, since canned pineapple is already soft.
What Can I Substitute for Honey?
If you’re looking for a substitute for honey, agave syrup or maple syrup will work well and provide similar sweetness. You could also use coconut sugar dissolved in a bit of warm water for a less sticky option.
How Should I Store Leftover Grilled Pineapple?
Store any leftover grilled pineapple in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It can be enjoyed cold or warmed up in a pan for a few minutes to restore some of the caramelization. Add a sprinkle of cinnamon before reheating for extra flavor!
Can I Grill Other Fruits with This Recipe?
Absolutely! Other fruits like peaches, nectarines, or even watermelon can be grilled in a similar way. The grilling times may vary slightly, so keep an eye on them for caramelization and grill marks. Just be sure to adjust the honey glaze according to the sweetness of the fruit!
