Sweet and juicy, honey-glazed grilled pineapple is the perfect summer treat! Grilling brings out the natural sugars, making each bite oh-so-delicious.
Plus, it’s super easy to make! Just toss pineapple slices in honey and throw them on the grill. I love serving these as a fun dessert or on top of ice cream. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: A ripe pineapple is crucial for sweetness. Look for one that’s slightly soft when pressed and has a sweet smell. If fresh pineapple isn’t available, canned pineapple rings in juice can be used; just drain them well before grilling.
Honey: Regular honey works beautifully, but you can substitute maple syrup for a vegan option or agave syrup for a lighter flavor. Just keep in mind it may alter the taste slightly.
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice gives zest to the glaze. If you don’t have fresh limes, bottled lime juice is fine, though fresh is always better for flavor.
Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon adds warmth. If you want a bit more spice, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or allspice instead. Those spices provide a lovely twist to the flavor profile!
How Do You Prepare Pineapple for Grilling?
Getting the pineapple ready is a key step. The aim is to remove the tough skin and the eyes, which can be a bit tricky. Here’s how:
- Start by cutting both the top and bottom off the pineapple with a sharp knife.
- Stand the pineapple upright and carefully slice down the sides to remove the skin, taking care to cut deep enough to get the eyes out.
- Once peeled, cut the pineapple into rings about 1/2 inch thick. This size ensures they’re sturdy for grilling and have great texture.
Getting this step right means your pineapple will grill perfectly, giving you those beautiful marks and delicious caramelization. Plus, it’ll be easier to enjoy!
How to Make Honey Glazed Grilled Pineapple
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 ripe pineapple
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and around 10 minutes to grill, totaling about 20 minutes. It’s quick, easy, and oh so tasty!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pineapple:
Start by slicing off the top and bottom of the pineapple to make it stable. Stand it upright and carefully cut off the skin, making sure to remove any little brown eyes. Now cut the pineapple into rings that are about 1/2 inch thick. These will be perfect for grilling!
2. Make the Honey Glaze:
In a small bowl, mix together the honey, lime juice, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Stir it well until everything is combined into a smooth glaze. This will be the sweet topping for your pineapple!
3. Preheat the Grill:
Get your grill ready by preheating it to medium-high heat. Make sure the grates are clean and well-oiled to help prevent the pineapple from sticking.
4. Brush the Pineapple:
Take your pineapple rings and brush both sides with the honey glaze. Remember to save some of the glaze for later, so you can baste the pineapple while it’s grilling!
5. Grill the Pineapple:
Place the glazed pineapple rings on the grill. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes on each side. You want to see those nice grill marks and feel the pineapple getting tender. While grilling, baste the rings with the leftover honey glaze for extra flavor!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once your pineapple is done grilling, take it off the grill and place it on a serving plate. If you like, garnish it with fresh mint leaves on top for a pop of color and freshness. Serve warm as a delicious dessert or alongside any savory dishes.
Enjoy your delicious honey glazed grilled pineapple! It’s a sweet treat you won’t forget!
Can I Use Canned Pineapple Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Canned pineapple can be used, but make sure to drain it well to avoid excess moisture that can cause sticking on the grill. Choose slices or rings for the best grilling results. Lower the grilling time to about 2 minutes per side since it’s already cooked.
What Can I Substitute for Honey?
If you need a substitute for honey, agave nectar or maple syrup works well! They have similar sweetness levels, just keep in mind that maple will add a distinct flavor. Start with the same amount and adjust to taste if needed.
How to Store Leftover Grilled Pineapple?
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat by grilling for a minute or two on each side to get back those nice grill marks, or warm them in the microwave until heated through.
Can I Grill Pineapple on a Skillet Instead?
Yes, grilling pineapple on a skillet is a great alternative! Use a grill pan over medium heat, adding a bit of oil if needed. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, following the same basting instructions for the honey glaze. Enjoy the delicious caramelization!
