Description
Craving a vibrant, juicy dessert or side dish that’s bursting with tropical flavor? This Grilled Pineapple is your go-to! With sweet pineapple rings brushed with a zesty lime-chili glaze, these charred slices are a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and smoky.
Ingredients
Here’s what you need to make this Grilled Pineapple. Each ingredient adds to the sweet, tangy, and smoky magic.
- Avocado Oil (1 tablespoon): Helps the glaze stick and prevents sticking on the grill.
- Fresh Lime Juice (1 tablespoon): Adds a bright, tangy flavor.
- Honey or Maple Syrup (1 teaspoon): Sweetens the glaze naturally (use maple syrup for a vegan option).
- Sea Salt (¼ teaspoon): Balances the sweetness.
- Chili Powder (pinches): Brings a subtle spicy kick.
- Pineapple (1, cut, cored, and sliced into rings): The star ingredient, delivering juicy, sweet flavor.
- Cooking Spray or Additional Avocado Oil (for brushing the grill): Prevents sticking and ensures clean grill marks.
Substitutions and Variations
- Avocado Oil: Swap with olive oil, melted coconut oil, or vegetable oil.
- Lime Juice: Use lemon juice or orange juice for a different citrus note.
- Honey/Maple Syrup: Substitute with agave nectar or brown sugar dissolved in a bit of water.
- Chili Powder: Replace with smoked paprika, cayenne (for more heat), or omit for a mild flavor.
- Pineapple: Use canned pineapple rings (drained well) if fresh isn’t available, though fresh is best for flavor.
- Add-Ins: Sprinkle with fresh mint, cilantro, or toasted coconut after grilling for extra flair
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Grill
- Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium heat (about 350–400°F).
Tip: Ensure the grill grates are clean to prevent sticking and achieve clear grill marks.
Step 2: Prepare the Glaze and Pineapple
- In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon avocado oil, 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice, 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup, ¼ teaspoon sea salt, and pinches of chili powder until well combined.
- Cut, core, and slice 1 pineapple into rings (about ½-inch thick).
- Brush the glaze onto both sides of the pineapple rings.
Tip: Cut pineapple into even rings for consistent grilling; a corer tool makes prep easy.
Step 3: Grill the Pineapple
- Spray or brush the grill grates with cooking spray or additional avocado oil.
- Place the pineapple rings on the grill and cook for 3–4 minutes per side, until char marks form and the pineapple softens slightly.
Tip: Avoid moving the rings while grilling to get distinct, attractive grill marks.
Step 4: Serve
- Remove the pineapple from the grill and serve immediately while warm.
- Optionally, brush with any remaining glaze for extra flavor.
Tip: Serve warm for the best texture and flavor contrast.