This honey glazed grilled pineapple is the perfect sweet treat for any barbecue! The warm, juicy pineapple is drizzled with honey and cooked until it’s caramelized and delicious.
Honestly, who can resist that sweet smell wafting through the air? I love serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It’s like a tropical vacation on your plate! 🍍
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple is essential for this recipe. Look for one that’s fragrant and slightly soft when you press it. If fresh isn’t available, canned pineapple rings could work, though they won’t have the same texture.
Honey: Honey is the star here, giving sweetness and a lovely glaze. You can substitute with maple syrup for a different flavor, or agave nectar if you prefer. Just keep in mind that the taste will change a bit!
Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon adds warmth. It’s optional, and if you’re not a fan, feel free to skip it. I sometimes use nutmeg or a pinch of ginger for a different twist.
Lime Juice: Lime juice brightens the dish. If you’re out of lime, lemon juice can be a good alternative. Citrus juice is key to balancing the sweetness in the glaze!
How Can I Cut Pineapple Effectively?
Cutting a pineapple can feel tricky, but here’s a simple way to do it:
- Start by slicing off the top and bottom to create a flat surface.
- Stand the pineapple upright and carefully slice off the skin by following its curve. Remove any brown “eyes” you see.
- Cut it into rings about 1-inch thick. If you’re worried about the core, just cut around it!
Take your time, and don’t rush the chopping! A sharp knife helps a lot in making the process safe and easy. Enjoy your grilled pineapple! It adds a delightful, caramelized sweetness to your meals.
How to Make Honey Glazed Grilled Pineapple
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pineapple:
- 1 fresh pineapple
For the Glaze:
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
For Garnish:
- Fresh mint leaves (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and 10-15 minutes to grill. In total, you should set aside around 25 minutes to enjoy delicious grilled pineapple.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pineapple:
First, grab your fresh pineapple and cut off the top and bottom. Stand it up on one end, and carefully slice off the skin, making sure to remove any little brown “eyes” you see. Once that’s done, cut the pineapple into thick rings, about 1-inch thick. Remember to keep the core in the rings for extra stability while grilling!
2. Make the Glaze:
In a small bowl, combine the honey, melted butter, ground cinnamon (if you want that extra spice), and lime juice. Use a whisk to mix everything until it’s well blended. This glaze is what will give your pineapple that sweet, shiny finish.
3. Preheat the Grill:
Now, it’s time to get your grill ready! Preheat it to medium heat. This is important to ensure the pineapple cooks evenly and gets those beautiful grill marks.
4. Glaze the Pineapple:
Take your pineapple rings and brush each side generously with the honey mixture. Make sure they are well-coated, as this will help with the caramelization on the grill!
5. Grill the Pineapple:
Place each glazed pineapple ring carefully on the grill. Grill for about 3-5 minutes on each side. Look for those nice grill marks and check if the pineapple is tender and caramelized. This part makes the house smell amazing!
6. Serve:
Once your pineapple is grilled to perfection, take it off the grill and arrange it on a serving platter. If you like, you can garnish it with some fresh mint leaves for a lovely touch. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious honey glazed grilled pineapple either as a sweet dessert or a tasty side dish!
Can I Use Canned Pineapple Instead of Fresh?
While fresh pineapple gives the best flavor and texture, you can use canned pineapple if needed. Just make sure to drain the syrup thoroughly, and pat the slices dry with paper towels to avoid excess moisture on the grill.
How Do I Store Leftover Grilled Pineapple?
Store leftover grilled pineapple in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave for about 30 seconds, or enjoy it cold as a refreshing snack!
Can I Adjust the Sweetness of the Glaze?
Absolutely! If you prefer a sweeter glaze, simply add more honey. For a less sweet option, you can reduce the amount of honey or substitute a sugar alternative like agave or maple syrup. Just be mindful that the flavor may change slightly.
What Can I Serve with Honey Glazed Grilled Pineapple?
This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled meats such as chicken or pork, or you can enjoy it alongside yogurt or ice cream for a sweet treat. It also adds a tropical touch to salads if you slice it up further!
