Grilled Pineapple

Grilled Pineapple is a delightful way to enjoy the natural sweetness of pineapple, enhanced by a smoky flavor from the grill. This tropical treat is perfect for summer gatherings, barbecues, or even as a simple dessert. Its versatility allows it to be served alone or as a topping for ice cream, salads, and more. With just a few ingredients, Grilled Pineapple is an easy yet impressive dish that will leave your guests wanting more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep and 12 minutes of cooking time, you can have this delicious dessert ready in under half an hour.
• Deliciously Sweet and Smoky: The combination of cinnamon sugar and grill marks creates a mouthwatering flavor that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a dessert, snack, or even on top of savory dishes like grilled chicken or fish.
• Vegan and Gluten-free: This recipe fits various dietary needs, making it a great option for gatherings with diverse guests.
• Refreshing Summer Treat: The juicy pineapple is perfect for cooling down during hot summer days.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, it’s helpful to gather the necessary tools for preparing Grilled Pineapple. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Tongs
• Shallow dishes

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: The star of this recipe; it imparts that wonderful smoky flavor.
• Tongs: Essential for flipping the pineapple slices safely on the grill without losing any deliciousness.
• Shallow dishes: Perfect for dipping the pineapple slices into coconut milk and cinnamon sugar evenly.

Ingredients

Enjoy the perfect blend of sweetness and smokiness with our Grilled Pineapple Slices, a tropical treat that’s sure to delight.

For the Pineapple

• 1 fresh pineapple – peeled, cored and cut into rings.

For Dipping

• ¼ cup canned coconut milk.
• ½ cup cinnamon sugar.

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Grilled Pineapple

Step 1: Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium heat. Once hot, lightly oil the grate to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Dipping Mixtures

• Pour the coconut milk into one shallow dish.
• Place cinnamon sugar in another shallow dish.

Step 3: Coat the Pineapple Slices

Dip each slice of pineapple into coconut milk first, allowing excess liquid to drip off. Then coat each slice in cinnamon sugar until fully covered.

Step 4: Grill the Pineapple

Place the coated slices on the grill:
1. Grill for about 6 minutes on one side.
2. Carefully flip using tongs and grill for an additional 6 minutes on the other side.
3. Once done, remove from grill and transfer to plates.

Serve your delicious Grilled Pineapple warm, garnished with fresh parsley if desired! Enjoy this sweet treat at your next gathering or as a refreshing snack anytime.

How to Serve Grilled Pineapple

Serving grilled pineapple can elevate your dining experience with its sweet and smoky flavor. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy this tropical treat.

As a Standalone Dessert

• Serve warm: Enjoy the grilled pineapple slices straight off the grill for a delightful dessert.
• Drizzle with honey: Add a touch of sweetness by drizzling honey over the warm slices.

In a Fruit Salad

• Mix it up: Combine grilled pineapple with other fruits like mango, strawberries, and kiwi for a refreshing salad.
• Add mint: Toss in fresh mint leaves for an extra burst of flavor.

With Ice Cream

• Top your favorite ice cream: Place a slice of grilled pineapple on vanilla or coconut ice cream for a tropical twist.
• Create a sundae: Layer grilled pineapple with whipped cream and nuts for a delicious sundae.

On Tacos

• Tropical taco topping: Use grilled pineapple as a topping on fish or shrimp tacos for added sweetness.
• Pair with spicy salsa: Balance the flavors by adding spicy salsa alongside the grilled pineapple in your tacos.

How to Perfect Grilled Pineapple

Perfecting grilled pineapple is all about technique and timing. Follow these tips to achieve the best results.

• Choose ripe pineapples: Select pineapples that are slightly soft to the touch and have a sweet aroma for optimal flavor.
• Cut even slices: Ensure all slices are uniform in thickness to guarantee even cooking on the grill.
• Preheat your grill: Make sure your grill is preheated to medium heat to get those perfect grill marks and caramelization.
• Use fresh ingredients: Opt for fresh cinnamon sugar or make your own blend for enhanced taste.
• Watch cooking time: Grill each side for about 6 minutes, but monitor closely to avoid burning.
• Experiment with toppings: Try adding toppings like lime juice or shredded coconut after grilling for added flavor dimensions.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Pineapple

Pairing side dishes with grilled pineapple can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Coconut Rice: This creamy side dish complements the tropical flavors of grilled pineapple beautifully.
2. Black Bean Salad: A refreshing black bean salad can add protein and texture alongside the sweetness of the pineapple.
3. Quinoa Salad: Combine quinoa with vegetables and a light dressing to balance the richness of the grilled dessert.
4. Coleslaw: A zesty coleslaw brings crunch and acidity that pairs well with sweet flavors.
5. Grilled Vegetables: Offer a savory contrast by serving assorted grilled vegetables alongside your dessert.
6. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn complements the caramelized notes of grilled pineapple perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Grilling pineapple can be a delightful experience, but there are a few common mistakes to watch out for.

• Skipping the oil: Not oiling the grill can cause the pineapple to stick. Always lightly oil the grate before grilling.
• Not using fresh pineapple: Canned or overripe pineapple won’t have the same texture or flavor. Choose a fresh, ripe pineapple for the best results.
• Ignoring cook time: Grilling too long or too short can ruin your slices. Stick to about 6 minutes per side for perfect results.
• Forgetting to prepare the grill: A dirty grill can impart unwanted flavors. Make sure your grill is clean and preheated before adding the pineapple.
• Overcomplicating flavors: Adding too many spices can overwhelm the natural sweetness of grilled pineapple. Keep it simple with just coconut milk and cinnamon sugar.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover grilled pineapple in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Grilled Pineapple

• Place grilled pineapple slices in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.

Reheating Grilled Pineapple

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 5-7 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on high for 30 seconds intervals until warm. Be cautious not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes per side.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I choose the best pineapple for grilling?

Select a ripe pineapple that is slightly soft when squeezed. Look for one with a sweet aroma at the base.

Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?

While you can use canned pineapple, it may lack the firmness and flavor that fresh grilled pineapple provides.

What dishes pair well with grilled pineapple?

Grilled pineapple complements many dishes, including burgers, salads, and desserts like ice cream or yogurt.

Is grilled pineapple healthy?

Yes! Grilled pineapple is low in calories and packed with vitamins, making it a nutritious addition to any meal.

Can I customize this grilled pineapple recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different spices or toppings like honey or lime juice to enhance flavor.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Pineapple is not only easy to make but also brings an exciting twist to your summer barbecues. Its blend of sweetness and smokiness makes it versatile enough as both a dessert and a side dish. Don’t hesitate to customize your grilled pineapple with your favorite toppings or spices! Enjoy this tropical treat today!

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