Grilled Pineapple
Sweet, juicy pineapple slices grilled to perfection with a warm cinnamon-sugar glaze. This simple recipe is the ultimate summer side dish for barbecues or a fantastic dessert served with vanilla ice cream.
For 4 servings
4 steps. 8 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Pineapple
- b.Lay the pineapple on its side and slice off the top crown and the bottom base, creating two flat ends.
- c.Stand the pineapple upright on a cutting board. Carefully slice downwards to remove the tough outer skin, following the curve of the fruit.
- d.Use the tip of a small knife to remove any remaining brown 'eyes'.
- e.Lay the pineapple back on its side and cut it into 8 rings, each about 3/4-inch thick.
- f.Using a small round cookie cutter or a paring knife, carefully remove the tough, fibrous core from the center of each slice.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Make the Glaze and Preheat Grill
- b.In a small bowl, whisk together the melted unsalted butter, packed brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and salt until well combined and the sugar begins to dissolve.
- c.Preheat your outdoor grill or indoor grill pan to medium-high heat, approximately 400°F (200°C).
- d.Lightly oil the grill grates with vegetable oil using a paper towel and tongs to prevent sticking.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Grill the Pineapple Slices
- b.Using a pastry brush, generously coat one side of each pineapple ring with the cinnamon-sugar glaze.
- c.Place the pineapple slices on the hot grill, glaze-side down.
- d.Grill for 3-4 minutes, or until deep grill marks appear and the sugar is caramelized. Do not move them while they cook on the first side.
- e.While the first side is grilling, brush the top-facing side of the pineapple slices with the remaining glaze.
- f.Flip the slices carefully with tongs and grill for another 3-4 minutes until the second side is also caramelized and the pineapple is heated through and tender.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Serve and Enjoy
- b.Remove the grilled pineapple from the grill and transfer to a platter.
- c.Serve immediately while warm. It is excellent on its own, as a side for grilled meats like chicken or pork, or as a dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or coconut sorbet.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best flavor, select a pineapple that is golden-yellow and smells sweet at its base.
- 2Ensure your grill grates are clean and well-oiled to prevent the sugary glaze from sticking.
- 3Maintain a consistent medium-high heat. If the grill is too hot, the sugar will burn before the pineapple cooks through.
- 4Don't slice the pineapple too thin, as it can become flimsy and fall apart on the grill. Aim for 3/4 to 1-inch thickness.
- 5Leftover grilled pineapple can be chopped and added to salsas, yogurt bowls, or even on top of a pizza.
- 6If you don't have a grill, you can use a cast-iron grill pan on the stovetop over medium-high heat or place the slices under a broiler for 2-3 minutes per side.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy
Add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the glaze for a sweet and spicy kick.
TropicalTropical
After grilling, sprinkle the pineapple slices with toasted shredded coconut and a squeeze of fresh lime juice.
BoozyBoozy
Add 1 tablespoon of dark rum or bourbon to the butter and sugar glaze for a more complex, adult-friendly flavor.
HerbalHerbal
Muddle a few fresh mint or basil leaves into the glaze before brushing it on the pineapple for a fresh, aromatic twist.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Vitamin C
Pineapple is an excellent source of Vitamin C, an antioxidant that is crucial for a strong immune system, skin health, and iron absorption.
Aids Digestion
Pineapple contains bromelain, a group of digestive enzymes that help break down proteins, potentially easing digestion and reducing bloating.
Source of Manganese
This fruit is a great source of the essential mineral manganese, which plays a vital role in bone formation, metabolism, and antioxidant defense.
Provides Antioxidants
Pineapples are loaded with antioxidants, particularly flavonoids and phenolic acids, which help combat oxidative stress in the body.
Frequently asked questions
Grilled pineapple can be a healthy treat in moderation. Pineapple itself is rich in Vitamin C, manganese, and the digestive enzyme bromelain. However, this recipe includes butter and brown sugar, which add calories and sugar. To make it healthier, you can reduce the amount of sugar and butter in the glaze.