Chili-Lime Grilled Pineapple
This Chili-Lime Grilled Pineapple offers a delightful balance of sweet, tangy, and subtly spicy flavors, making for a refreshing and light dessert or snack. Grilling caramelizes the pineapple's natural sugars, creating a juicy, flavorful treat with a hint of smoky char.
For 4 servings
Prepare the Pineapple: Peel the pineapple, remove the fibrous core, and cut it into 1/2-inch thick spears or rings. Pat the pineapple pieces dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps with caramelization.
Make the Chili-Lime Rub: In a small bowl, combine the fresh lime juice, lime zest, chili powder, and sea salt. Mix thoroughly to create a uniform paste.
Coat the Pineapple: Brush or toss the pineapple spears/rings evenly with the chili-lime rub, ensuring all surfaces are well coated. Allow it to marinate for 5-10 minutes while you prepare the grill.
Preheat Grill: Preheat an outdoor grill or a ridged grill pan to medium-high heat (approximately 400°F or 200°C). Lightly brush the grill grates with olive oil to prevent the pineapple from sticking.
Grill the Pineapple: Place the seasoned pineapple pieces directly onto the hot grill. Grill for 2-4 minutes per side, or until distinct char marks appear and the pineapple is tender, juicy, and slightly caramelized. Be careful not to overcook, as it can become mushy.
Serve Immediately: Carefully transfer the grilled pineapple to a serving platter. Serve warm as a refreshing dessert, a light snack, or as a vibrant accompaniment to grilled chicken, pork, or fish.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Choose a Ripe Pineapple: A ripe pineapple will have a sweet aroma at its base, vibrant green leaves, and a slight give when squeezed. This ensures maximum natural sweetness for grilling.
- 2Prevent Sticking: Always oil your grill grates thoroughly before placing the pineapple. If using a grill pan, a light brush of oil on the pineapple itself can also help.
- 3Don't Overcrowd the Grill: Grill in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking and good charring. Overcrowding lowers the grill temperature and steams the fruit instead of grilling it.
- 4Versatile Serving: While fantastic on its own, grilled pineapple also pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream, a dollop of Greek yogurt, or as a side to savory dishes.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicier Kick
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the chili-lime rub for those who prefer more heat.
Sweeter IndulgenceSweeter Indulgence
Before grilling, sprinkle the pineapple with a touch of brown sugar or drizzle with agave nectar for extra caramelization and sweetness.
Savory TwistSavory Twist
Incorporate a pinch of smoked paprika or ground cumin into the rub, and serve the grilled pineapple alongside grilled shrimp, chicken, or pork for a complete meal.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Vitamin C
Pineapple and lime are excellent sources of Vitamin C, an antioxidant that supports immune function and skin health.
Aids Digestion
Pineapple contains bromelain, an enzyme that assists in protein digestion and may help reduce inflammation.
Low Calorie & Hydrating
This dessert is naturally low in calories and high in water content, making it a hydrating and guilt-free sweet treat.
Frequently asked questions
While fresh pineapple is highly recommended for its texture and flavor, you can use canned pineapple rings (packed in juice, not syrup) if fresh is unavailable. Drain them very well and pat dry before applying the rub and grilling.
