This sweet and juicy honey glazed grilled pineapple is perfect for summer grilling! The warm, caramelized edges mixed with a touch of honey gives it a lovely, tropical taste.
Whenever I make this, I can’t help but daydream about a beach vacation. It’s great as a dessert or even as a fun topping on burgers. Yum! 🍍
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: A ripe pineapple is key for this recipe. Look for one that’s fragrant and slightly soft at the bottom. If fresh pineapple isn’t available, you can use canned pineapple slices in juice, but be sure to drain them well before grilling.
Honey: This adds natural sweetness and helps achieve a lovely glaze. If you’re looking for a vegan alternative, maple syrup or agave nectar works great. I personally enjoy using local honey for its flavor.
Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice brightens the dish. If limes aren’t on hand, you can substitute lemon juice, though it’ll offer a slightly different taste. Always opt for fresh juice over bottled when you can, for better flavor.
Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon gives a warm spice note that complements the pineapple. For a twist, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or even allspice. Just don’t go overboard—cinnamon is potent!
Mint Leaves: These are optional but highly recommended. They add freshness. If you don’t have fresh mint, you can skip them or sprinkle on some finely chopped cilantro for a different flair.
How Do I Grill Pineapple Without Sticking to the Grate?
Grilling pineapple can be tricky if it sticks, causing messy flipping. To prevent this, follow these easy steps:
- First, preheat your grill to medium heat. This helps create a sear and reduces sticking.
- Before placing pineapple, brush the grill grates with cooking spray or oil. A paper towel soaked in oil works too—just be careful of any flare-ups!
- Ensure the pineapple slices are coated well with the honey mixture. This creates a glaze that will caramelize nicely.
- Don’t flip too early! Only turn the slices when they have nice grill marks, around 4-5 minutes. Use a spatula for easy handling.
Following these tips will help you achieve delicious, perfectly grilled pineapple every time!
How to Make Honey Glazed Grilled Pineapple
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Grilled Pineapple:
- 1 ripe pineapple
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
- Cooking spray or oil for grilling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 10 minutes to grill. In total, you’ll need around 20 minutes to have this tasty treat ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium heat, which is about 350°F (175°C). This helps create a perfect cooking environment for the pineapple.
2. Slice the Pineapple:
Carefully cut the pineapple into thick slices, around 1 inch wide. Make sure to remove the outer skin and the tough core from each slice. If you have a corer, it’s a great tool to help with this step!
3. Prepare the Honey Glaze:
In a small bowl, mix together the honey, freshly squeezed lime juice, and ground cinnamon. Stir until everything is well combined, creating a sweet and zesty glaze.
4. Glaze the Pineapple:
Using a brush or your hands, coat both sides of each pineapple slice with the honey mixture. Make sure they are nicely covered to get that delicious glaze when grilled.
5. Prepare the Grill:
To prevent sticking, lightly spray or brush the grill grates with cooking spray or a little oil. This will help the pineapple slices cook evenly.
6. Grill the Pineapple:
Place the pineapple slices on the grill and cook them for about 4-5 minutes on each side. Look for nice grill marks and caramelization. While grilling, feel free to brush extra honey mixture onto the slices for added flavor!
7. Let the Pineapple Rest:
Once they’re done, carefully remove the pineapple slices from the grill and let them sit for a minute. This helps the flavors settle a bit.
8. Garnish and Serve:
For a lovely touch, garnish with fresh mint leaves before serving. Enjoy your grilled pineapple warm, either as a tasty dessert or a vibrant side dish!
Can I Use Canned Pineapple Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use canned pineapple slices if fresh is not available. Just make sure to drain them well before grilling to avoid excess moisture. Keep in mind that canned pineapple may not grill as well, so watch closely to avoid overcooking.
Can I Substitute the Honey?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a healthier option, maple syrup or agave nectar can work as substitutes for honey. Just use the same amount. If you want a sugar-free option, try using a sugar substitute designed for cooking that measures cup-for-cup like erythritol.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover grilled pineapple in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the grill or in a skillet over low heat; this will help regain some of the caramelization.
What’s the Best Way to Serve Grilled Pineapple?
Grilled pineapple is delicious on its own, but it’s also great as a topping for ice cream or yogurt, in fruit salads, or as a side to grilled meats. Enjoy experimenting with different pairings!
