This honey glazed grilled pineapple is a sweet treat that brightens up any meal! Juicy, tender pineapple slices are brushed with a sticky honey glaze and grilled until caramelized.
Grilling brings out the fruit’s natural sweetness, and I love serving it with ice cream or yogurt. It’s a hit at summer BBQs! Who knew a fruit could be this fancy? 🍍✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: A ripe pineapple is key for sweetness and juiciness. You can substitute with peaches or mangoes if needed. Just remember they may cook a bit differently. For best results, the fruit should be firm yet slightly soft to the touch.
Honey: Honey adds natural sweetness, but if you’re vegan or avoiding sugar, maple syrup or agave nectar work well as substitutes. Each brings a unique flavor but pairs perfectly with the grilled fruit.
Olive Oil: This helps the fruit grill nicely. For a different taste, try coconut oil, which adds a nice tropical hint to the dish. If you’re looking for a lower fat option, you can skip it, but the pineapple might stick a little more to the grill.
Cinnamon: It’s great for flavor depth. If you don’t have ground cinnamon, feel free to use nutmeg or allspice for a different twist. Just use half the amount as these can be stronger.
Mint Leaves: Fresh mint is optional but adds a refreshing kick. If you’re out of mint, consider basil or even a sprinkle of lemon zest for a bright finish.
How Do I Grill Pineapple Without it Sticking?
To prevent your pineapple from sticking to the grill, follow these steps:
- Ensure the grill is preheated to medium heat before adding the pineapple.
- Brush both sides of the pineapple rings with the honey and olive oil mixture. The oil helps create a barrier between the fruit and grill grates.
- Place the pineapple rings directly onto the grill and let them cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes. Avoid moving them around too much.
- Use a spatula or tongs to gently lift the edges and check for grill marks before flipping.
These simple tips will help you get those beautiful grill marks while keeping the pineapple rings intact! Enjoy the sweet flavors and perfect texture!
How to Make Honey Glazed Grilled Pineapple
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 ripe medium pineapple
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 8 minutes to grill. So, in just 18 minutes, you’ll have a sweet and delicious treat ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium heat. This will ensure that your pineapple cooks evenly and gets those lovely grill marks.
2. Prepare the Pineapple:
Take your ripe pineapple and carefully cut off the top and bottom. This gives it a stable base. Now, slice off the skin, making sure to remove all the eyes (the brown spots). Cut the pineapple into thick rings, about 1 inch each, and use a small knife or corer to remove the tough core from each ring. You should have beautiful, round slices ready for grilling!
3. Whisk Together the Honey Mixture:
In a small bowl, mix together the honey, olive oil, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract (if you’re using it). Stir well until everything is nicely combined and you have a sweet glaze ready to enhance your pineapple.
4. Brush Pineapple with the Honey Mixture:
Using a brush or spoon, coat both sides of each pineapple ring with your honey mixture. Make sure the pineapple is well covered—that’s where the flavor really comes in!
5. Grill the Pineapple:
Carefully place the honey-coated pineapple rings on the preheated grill. Grill each side for about 3-4 minutes, or until you see lovely grill marks and the pineapple starts to caramelize. This will enhance the natural sweetness and give you that delicious grilled flavor.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once the pineapple rings are cooked, remove them from the grill. If you’d like, add a sprinkle of fresh mint leaves on top for a pop of color and flavor. Serve the warm grilled pineapple as a fantastic side dish or a sweet dessert. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Other Sweeteners Instead of Honey?
Absolutely! Maple syrup or agave nectar can be great alternatives if you prefer something different or if you need a vegan option. Use the same quantity as you would honey for best results.
How to Choose a Ripe Pineapple?
Look for a pineapple that has a sweet aroma at the base and is slightly soft when you press it. The color should be mostly yellow, as green pineapples are typically unripe. A ripe pineapple will also have some brown spots on the skin.
Can I Make This Recipe in the Oven or on a Grill Pan?
Yes! If you don’t have a grill, you can bake the pineapple in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. Alternatively, use a grill pan on the stovetop to achieve those delicious caramelized marks.
How to Store Leftover Grilled Pineapple?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave for a quick snack, or chop it up and add it to a smoothie for a refreshing treat!
