This honey glazed grilled pineapple is a sweet and juicy treat that’s perfect for summer cookouts. Grilling brings out the fruit’s natural sweetness, making it even more delicious!
Every bite has that caramelized goodness that just makes you smile. I love serving it with a scoop of ice cream—it’s like a tropical party on my plate! 🍍
Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: Choose a ripe pineapple for the best flavor. Look for a sweet aroma and slight softness at the stem end. If fresh isn’t available, canned pineapple can be used, but it won’t have the same texture or smoky flavor from the grill.
Honey: Honey adds a wonderful sweetness and a beautiful glaze. If you’re vegan, agave syrup is a great alternative; it has a similar consistency and sweetness. Maple syrup could work too, but it will add a slightly different flavor.
Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice brightens the flavor. If limes aren’t handy, lemon juice can work as a substitute. Just remember, it may alter the taste a bit but can still be delicious.
Cinnamon: This is optional, but it adds warmth. If you’re not a fan of cinnamon, you can skip it or even try a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for a different twist.
Mint Leaves: These are perfect for garnish and enhance the dish visually and flavor-wise. If you don’t have mint, you could use basil or simply leave them off.
How Do You Grill Pineapple Perfectly?
Grilling pineapple might seem easy, but there are a few secrets to get it just right. The aim is to achieve those beautiful grill marks and enhance the pineapple’s sweetness by caramelizing the sugars.
- Preheat your grill on medium heat to ensure a good sear. Don’t rush this step!
- Cut the pineapple into 1-inch thick slices. Thicker slices hold together better on the grill.
- Remove the core from each slice; it can be tough to chew and isn’t pleasant when grilled.
- Brush the pineapple slices well with the honey glaze for maximum caramelization.
- Grill for about 3-4 minutes on each side; keep an eye on them. You want nice grill marks and the fruit to be soft but not mushy.
- Let them cool slightly after grilling, as this helps the glaze set just a bit more.
How to Make Honey Glazed Grilled Pineapple
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Grilled Pineapple:
- 1 large fresh pineapple
- 1/4 cup honey (or agave syrup for a vegan option)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 8-10 minutes to grill. Overall, you can enjoy your honey glazed grilled pineapple in just under 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Grill and Pineapple:
First, preheat your grill to medium heat. While the grill is heating up, take your large fresh pineapple. Cut it into 1-inch thick slices and be sure to remove the core from each slice. This will make your grilled pineapple perfectly tender and easy to enjoy.
2. Make the Honey Glaze:
In a small bowl, whisk together the honey and freshly squeezed lime juice. If you’re feeling adventurous, add in the cinnamon for a warm, spicy touch that pairs wonderfully with the sweet pineapple.
3. Glaze the Pineapple Slices:
Now it’s time to give your pineapple some love! Brush both sides of the pineapple slices generously with the honey glaze you just made. This will give them a lovely sweet flavor once grilled.
4. Grill the Pineapple:
Once your grill is ready, place the glazed pineapple slices on it. Grill them for about 3-4 minutes on each side. You’re looking for those beautiful grill marks and for the pineapple to be heated through. The sizzling sound is a great sign that they are cooking nicely!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
After grilling, remove the pineapple slices from the grill and let them cool slightly. Serve the warm, delicious slices garnished with fresh mint leaves if you like. Enjoy your honey glazed grilled pineapple as a delightful dessert or as a tasty addition to savory dishes!
Can I Use Canned Pineapple Instead of Fresh Pineapple?
While fresh pineapple yields the best flavor and texture, you can use canned pineapple in a pinch. Just make sure to drain it well and pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture before grilling, as it may not hold grill marks as nicely as fresh pineapple.
How Can I Make This Recipe Without a Grill?
If you don’t have access to a grill, you can use a grill pan on the stove or even bake the pineapple in the oven. For baking, place the pineapple slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and broil them on high for about 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are caramelized.
How to Store Leftover Grilled Pineapple?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, just warm them up on a skillet for a minute on each side or in the microwave for about 20 seconds. They can be enjoyed cold as well!
Can I Substitute Honey with Another Sweetener?
Absolutely! If you’re vegan or prefer a different sweetener, agave syrup works well instead of honey. For a lower-calorie option, you could use a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit, just adjust the amount according to the sweetness level you prefer.
