Grilled Pineapple

The next time you get a sweet craving, try this fantastic grilled pineapple. This delightful dessert is perfect for summer barbecues, family gatherings, or simply as a special treat. With its caramelized exterior and juicy interior, grilled pineapple offers a unique twist on traditional desserts. Serve it warm with ice cream, and you’ll want to savor every bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious dessert in under 30 minutes.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of sweet pineapple, brown sugar, and cinnamon creates an irresistible flavor profile.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it on its own, with ice cream, or as a topping for pancakes and yogurt.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a barbecue or a cozy family dinner, this grilled pineapple will impress your guests.
• Healthy Dessert Option: Grilled pineapple is lower in calories compared to many other desserts, making it a guilt-free indulgence.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the deliciousness of grilled pineapple, make sure you have the right tools at hand to make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill or grill pan
• Sharp knife
• Large zip-top bag
• Small mixing bowl
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or grill pan: Essential for achieving that perfect char and smoky flavor on the pineapple.
• Sharp knife: A must-have for easily cutting through the tough exterior of the pineapple.
• Large zip-top bag: Great for marinating the pineapple evenly without making a mess.
• Small mixing bowl & whisk: Perfect for combining ingredients thoroughly before adding them to the fruit.

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Ingredients

To make this delightful grilled pineapple dessert, gather these ingredients:

• 1 fresh pineapple
• 1/4 cup butter, melted
• 1/4 cup dark brown sugar
• 1/4 cup dark vanilla extract (alcohol-free), optional
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Pinch salt

How to Make Grilled Pineapple

Step 1: Prepare the Pineapple

1. Use a sharp knife to cut off the top and bottom of the pineapple and slice away the rind.
2. Cut the fruit into 3/4-1-inch spears or rings. If using rings, remove the core with a small cutter.
3. Place the cut pineapple into a large zip-top bag and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Marinade

1. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together melted butter, dark brown sugar, dark vanilla extract (if using), ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until everything is well combined.
2. Pour this mixture into the zip-top bag with the pineapple. Gently toss to ensure each piece is coated in marinade.
3. Seal the bag and place it in the fridge for about 20-30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Step 3: Grill the Pineapple

1. Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium heat until it reaches 375-400°F.
2. Remove the pineapple from the marinade and place it on the hot grill.
3. Cook each side for about 4-6 minutes. Brush each side with any leftover marinade during cooking for added flavor.

Step 4: Serve

1. Once nicely grilled and caramelized, transfer your grilled pineapple to a platter.
2. Serve immediately while warm! Enjoy your delicious creation!

How to Serve Grilled Pineapple

Grilled pineapple is a versatile dessert that can be enjoyed in various delightful ways. Whether you want a simple treat or an extravagant dish, here are some fantastic serving suggestions.

With Ice Cream

• Pair the warm grilled pineapple with a scoop of your favorite ice cream for a delicious contrast in temperature and texture.

In a Fruit Salad

• Chop the grilled pineapple into bite-sized pieces and mix it with other fresh fruits. This adds a tropical twist to your salad.

Topped with Yogurt

• Serve grilled pineapple slices topped with yogurt and a sprinkle of granola for a nutritious breakfast or snack option.

On Pancakes or Waffles

• Use grilled pineapple as a topping for pancakes or waffles, adding sweetness and a hint of caramelization to your morning meal.

As Part of a Tropical Dessert Platter

• Create a colorful platter with grilled pineapple, coconut, and mango. This visually appealing dish will impress guests at any gathering.

In Smoothies

• Blend grilled pineapple into your smoothies for added flavor and natural sweetness. It pairs well with spinach or kale for a refreshing drink.

How to Perfect Grilled Pineapple

To achieve the best results when grilling pineapple, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose ripe pineapples: Look for pineapples that are golden yellow and slightly soft to the touch. Ripe fruit will have more natural sweetness.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh butter and brown sugar enhance the flavor of the marinade, making your grilled pineapple even more delicious.

• Preheat the grill: Ensure your grill is adequately heated before placing the pineapple on it. This helps create those beautiful grill marks while caramelizing the sugars.

• Don’t overcrowd the grill: Give the pineapple enough space while grilling. This allows even cooking and prevents steaming instead of grilling.

• Baste while grilling: Brush each side of the pineapple with excess marinade as it cooks to keep it moist and flavorful.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Pineapple

Grilled pineapple pairs beautifully with various side dishes that complement its sweet and smoky flavors. Here are some excellent options:

1. Coconut Rice: This fragrant rice dish enhances tropical flavors, making it an excellent match for grilled pineapple.

2. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with herbs, vegetables, and citrus dressing offers a refreshing contrast to sweet fruit.

3. Grilled Chicken Skewers: The savory taste of chicken skewers complements the sweet notes of grilled pineapple perfectly.

4. Spinach Salad: A fresh spinach salad topped with nuts and vinaigrette balances out the sweetness of dessert.

5. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The earthy flavors of roasted sweet potatoes pair well with the caramelized notes of grilled fruit.

6. Corn on the Cob: The slight smokiness from grilled corn enhances the overall tropical experience when served alongside grilled pineapple.

7. Stuffed Bell Peppers: These colorful veggies filled with rice and spices add heartiness to your meal while complementing fruity flavors.

8. Black Bean Salsa: A zesty black bean salsa adds protein and spice, creating an exciting contrast to sweet dishes like grilled pineapple.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Grilling pineapple can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Boldly slice the pineapple: Cutting the pineapple too thin can cause it to fall apart on the grill. Aim for 3/4-1-inch thick spears or rings to ensure they hold their shape.
• Neglect the marinade time: Skipping marinating can lead to less flavor. Allow the pineapple to soak in the marinade for at least 20-30 minutes for the best taste.
• Overcrowd the grill: Placing too many pieces on the grill can result in uneven cooking. Grill in batches if necessary, leaving space between each piece for even heat distribution.
• Forget about temperature control: Cooking at too high of a temperature can burn the outside while leaving the inside raw. Aim for a medium heat of 375-400°F for perfect grilling.
• Skip brushing with marinade: Not basting during cooking may result in dry fruit. Brush each side with excess marinade while grilling to keep them juicy and flavorful.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• • Duration: Store grilled pineapple in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• • Temperature: Keep your refrigerator set at or below 40°F (4°C).
• • Separation: Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing Grilled Pineapple

• • Duration: Freeze grilled pineapple for up to 6 months.
• • Container: Use a freezer-safe, airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• • Portioning: Consider slicing into smaller pieces before freezing for easy use later.

Reheating Grilled Pineapple

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals (about 30 seconds) until warmed through; avoid overcooking as it can make it mushy.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a skillet for a few minutes on each side, brushing with a little butter or oil if desired.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about grilled pineapple and their answers.

Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?

Yes, but fresh pineapple tends to have a better texture and flavor when grilled. If using canned, choose chunks packed in juice without added sugar.

How do I know when my grilled pineapple is done?

The pineapple is ready when it has nice grill marks and is slightly caramelized. It should be soft but not mushy.

What are some serving suggestions for grilled pineapple?

Grilled pineapple pairs well with vanilla ice cream, yogurt, or as a topping on pancakes and waffles. You can also incorporate it into fruit salads!

Can I add spices or other flavors to my grilled pineapple?

Absolutely! Experiment with spices like cayenne pepper or nutmeg, or try adding honey or maple syrup to enhance sweetness.

How do I store leftover grilled pineapple?

Store leftover grilled pineapple in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

Grilled pineapple is not just a delightful dessert; it’s versatile and perfect for various occasions. Its sweetness can complement many dishes, from savory meals to sweet treats. Feel free to customize by adding spices or pairing it with your favorite toppings. Try this recipe today and enjoy its deliciousness!