Chili-Lime Grilled Pineapple
Sweet, caramelized pineapple rings kissed by smoky grill marks, brightened with a zesty squeeze of fresh lime and a gentle kick of chili. This quick side dish or dessert transforms simple fruit into something truly special — juicy, warm, and bursting with tropical flavor in under 15 minutes.
For 4 servings
- prep · ~5 min
Prepare the pineapple.
1.Slice off the top and bottom of the pineapple.2.Stand it upright and slice away the skin from top to bottom.3.Cut crosswise into 8 even rings, about ¾-inch thick.4.Use a small round cutter or knife to remove the core from each ring.TIPChoose a pineapple that smells sweet at the base — it'll be ripe and juicy. - prep · ~1 min
Season the pineapple rings.
1.Brush both sides of each pineapple ring lightly with oil.2.Sprinkle one side with a pinch of red chili powder and salt.TIPDon't overdo the chili — just a whisper so the sweetness still shines. - grill · ~8 min
Grill the pineapple until caramelized.
1.Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill over medium-high heat.2.Lightly brush the grates with oil.3.Place pineapple rings on the hot grill in a single layer.4.Grill for 3 to 4 minutes per side until deep grill marks appear and the fruit softens.TIPResist the urge to move them — let the sugar caramelize undisturbed for clean marks. - garnish · ~1 min
Finish with lime and mint.
1.Transfer grilled pineapple to a serving plate.2.Squeeze fresh lime juice generously over the warm rings.3.Scatter chopped mint on top and serve immediately.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For clean, deep grill marks, don't move the pineapple rings once they hit the hot grates.
- 2Slice rings to a uniform ¾-inch thickness so they cook evenly without burning.
- 3Use a ripe pineapple that smells sweet at the base — it will caramelize better and taste juicier.
- 4If using a wooden skewer to remove the core, slide it through the center of each ring for quick work.
- 5Serve immediately after grilling; the warmth intensifies the lime and chili flavors.
- 6Leftover grilled pineapple can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spiced rum glaze
Brush the pineapple rings with a mixture of 2 tablespoons dark rum and 1 tablespoon brown sugar before grilling for a boozy, sticky-sweet crust that pairs beautifully with the lime and chili.
no chili mildNo-chili mild
Omit the red chili powder entirely for a kid-friendly version; add a tiny pinch of smoked paprika for a gentle smokiness without heat.
herb swapHerb swap
Replace mint with fresh cilantro or Thai basil for a different herbal note — cilantro pairs exceptionally well with the chili-lime profile.
grilled pineapple salsaGrilled pineapple salsa
After grilling, dice the rings and toss with diced red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, and extra lime juice for a chunky salsa that works on tacos or grilled fish.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Vitamin C
Pineapple provides a good dose of immune-supporting vitamin C, and the fresh lime juice adds even more per squeeze.
Contains Bromelain
Pineapple naturally contains bromelain, a mixture of enzymes that may aid digestion and reduce inflammation.
Low in Added Sugar
This recipe relies on the fruit's own natural sweetness — no added sugar or syrups, making it a lighter dessert or side option.
Heart-Friendly Minerals
Pineapple supplies potassium and manganese, which support healthy blood pressure and bone health respectively.
Frequently asked questions
Fresh is best for texture and caramelization, but if using canned, pat the rings very dry and reduce grill time slightly since they are already soft.
