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Grilling fruits brings out their natural sweetness and enhances their flavors, making them perfect for summer barbecues or as a simple yet delicious dessert. One of the most delightful fruits to grill is pineapple. With its juicy texture and sweet, tropical flavor, grilled pineapple makes an excellent accompaniment to savory dishes or can shine brightly on its own.
Why Make This Grilled Pineapple
Grilled pineapple is not only incredibly easy to prepare, but it also brings a burst of sunshine to your table. The grilling process caramelizes the sugars in the pineapple, creating a sweet crust that contrasts beautifully with its juicy interior. Additionally, the smoky flavor from the grill enhances the fruit, turning a humble pineapple into a gourmet treat. This dish is great for summer parties, picnics, or even a weekday family dinner. Plus, it’s a healthy dessert option that’s naturally gluten-free!
How to Make Grilled Pineapple
Making grilled pineapple is a straightforward process that any home cook can master. It requires minimal ingredients and time, making it an ideal choice for spontaneous cooking. With just a little prep work, you can have sweet, warm slices ready to delight your taste buds.
Ingredients:
- 1 fresh pineapple
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- Optional: honey or maple syrup for drizzling
Directions:
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Cut the pineapple into rings or spears, removing the core.
- In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon.
- Sprinkle the sugar mixture over the pineapple slices, ensuring even coverage.
- Place the pineapple on the grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until grill marks appear and the fruit is caramelized.
- Remove from the grill and drizzle with honey or maple syrup if desired. Serve warm.
Nutritional Information
This recipe yields approximately four servings. Each serving contains:
- Calories: 83
- Total Fat: 0.2g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 1mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 22g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 19g
- Protein: 1g
Please note that adding honey or maple syrup will increase the calorie count slightly.
How to Serve Grilled Pineapple
Grilled pineapple can be served in a variety of delicious ways. Enjoy it warm as a standalone dessert, and perhaps garnish it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for extra indulgence. You can also serve it alongside grilled meats, particularly chicken or pork, for a sweet and savory dish. For breakfast, consider pairing it with yogurt or oatmeal. It also makes a fantastic addition to fruit salads or as a topping for pancakes and waffles.
How to Store Grilled Pineapple
If you have any leftovers (though they are often hard to resist!), store grilled pineapple in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should last for about 3-4 days. To reheat, warm it on the grill or in a skillet for a few minutes until heated through. You can also enjoy it cold, adding a refreshing twist to your breakfast or snacks.
Expert Tips for Perfect Grilled Pineapple
- Choose a ripe pineapple: Look for one with a sweet smell and slightly soft to the touch. It should have a vibrant yellow color on the bottom and green leaves.
- Don’t skip the sugar: The brown sugar and cinnamon coating enhances the flavor significantly and creates that beautiful caramelization.
- Use a grill basket or skewers: If you’re using smaller pieces of pineapple, a grill basket or skewers can help prevent them from falling through the grill grates.
- Experiment with spices: Try adding other spices like nutmeg or ginger to the sugar mixture for a unique flavor twist.
Delicious Variations
- Spicy Grilled Pineapple: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sugar and cinnamon mix for a kick of heat.
- Coconut-Grilled Pineapple: Brush the slices with coconut milk before grilling and sprinkle shredded coconut afterward for an extra layer of tropical flavor.
- Balsamic Glazed Pineapple: Drizzle balsamic reduction over the grilled slices for a sweet and tangy twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?
You can use canned pineapple, but fresh is preferred for texture and flavor. If using canned, drain well and skip the sugar since it’s often packed in syrup.What type of grill works best?
Both gas and charcoal grills work well for grilling pineapple. Just make sure it’s preheated to medium-high heat for the best caramelization.Can I grill other fruits the same way?
Absolutely! Many fruits like peaches, mangoes, and strawberries grill beautifully. Just adjust cooking times based on the fruit’s texture and size.
Conclusion
Grilled pineapple is a mouthwatering treat that everyone should try. Its sweet, caramelized exterior pairs perfectly with the juicy inside, making it a versatile addition to any meal. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a fantastic way to impress your family and friends. So fire up the grill, and enjoy this delicious dish that brings a taste of the tropics to your table. Don’t forget to share your grilling success and let us know how your grilled pineapple turns out!
Grilled Pineapple
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Cut the pineapple into rings or spears, removing the core.
- In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon.
- Sprinkle the sugar mixture over the pineapple slices, ensuring even coverage.
- Place the pineapple on the grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until grill marks appear and the fruit is caramelized.
- Remove from the grill and drizzle with honey or maple syrup if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
Grilled Pineapple
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Cut the pineapple into rings or spears, removing the core.
- In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon.
- Sprinkle the sugar mixture over the pineapple slices, ensuring even coverage.
- Place the pineapple on the grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until grill marks appear and the fruit is caramelized.
- Remove from the grill and drizzle with honey or maple syrup if desired. Serve warm.
