Name: Grilled Pineapple Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 23 min
Cuisine: Tropical
Ingredients: 1 ripe, fresh pineapple (peeled, cored, and cut into 1/2 inch thick rings or wedges); 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice; 1 tablespoon olive oil or coconut oil; 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (for extra sweetness); Chili powder or cayenne pepper (to add a spicy kick); Freshly grated ginger or a splash of rum (for a tropical twist); Fresh herbs like mint, basil, or cilantro (for garnish); Sea salt or chili-lime salt (for sweet and salty finish)

Discover the magic of tropical sunshine with our delightful Grilled Pineapple Recipe. Master the sweet, caramelized magic of our easy Grilled Pineapple recipe—perfect for desserts or a tropical side dish. This simple yet impressive dish brings out the natural sugars of fresh pineapple, transforming it into a juicy, smoky treat that’s excellent for summer BBQs, snacks, or even a refreshing treat after dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Effortless Sweetness: The grilling process caramelizes the pineapple’s natural sugars, giving it a rich and sweet flavor with minimal effort.
Versatile Use: Enjoy it as a dessert, a tropical side dish, or a tasty snack — it pairs beautifully with both savory and sweet meals.
Healthier Indulgence: This grilled delight is naturally low in calories and packed with vitamins, making it a guilt-free treat.
Quick Preparation: It takes just minutes to prep and grill, making it perfect for spontaneous summer gatherings.
Impresses Guests: The unique smoky-sweet flavor and beautiful grill marks make it a showstopper at any BBQ or party.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe shines through simplicity. With just a handful of fresh ingredients, you’ll create layers of flavor and texture that make the grilled pineapple so irresistible. Each component plays an important role, from sweetness to a touch of spice or richness.

Fresh Pineapple: Choose a ripe and juicy pineapple for the best caramelization results and vibrant tropical flavor.
Brown Sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness and helps build the luscious caramel crust on the pineapple’s surface.
Ground Cinnamon: Imparts a warm and fragrant spice that complements the pineapple’s natural brightness.
Fresh Lime Juice: Brings a tangy kick that balances the sweetness and adds a refreshing citrus note.
Optional Honey or Maple Syrup: For extra sweetness and glaze, perfect if your pineapple is less ripe.
Olive Oil or Coconut Oil: Lightly coats the pineapple to prevent sticking and enhances the grilling experience.

Variations for Grilled Pineapple Recipe

Feel free to customize your grilled pineapple to suit your mood, dietary preferences, or pantry staples. This recipe is a fantastic base for experimenting with flavors and toppings — try a few twists to keep it fresh and exciting.

Spicy Kick: Sprinkle a little chili powder or cayenne pepper for those who enjoy a bit of heat with their sweetness.
Tropical Twist: Add freshly grated ginger or a splash of rum to bring an island-inspired flavor boost.
Vegan Version: Use maple syrup instead of honey to keep it plant-based without sacrificing sweetness.
Herbal Notes: Garnish with fresh mint, basil, or cilantro for a refreshing herbal contrast.
Sweet and Salty: Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt or chili-lime salt after grilling for an addictive flavor combo.

Grilled Pineapple Recipe Perfect for Summer BBQs and Snacks

How to Make Grilled Pineapple Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Pineapple

Start by peeling the pineapple carefully and removing the core. Cut the pineapple into rings or wedges about 1/2 inch thick—uniform pieces help ensure even grilling.

Step 2: Make the Marinade

In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, ground cinnamon, fresh lime juice, and a drizzle of olive or coconut oil. If you want it sweeter, add a splash of honey or maple syrup. Stir until everything is well combined.

Step 3: Marinate the Pineapple

Brush or toss the pineapple pieces with the marinade, making sure each slice is coated well. Let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes to soak up those flavors and intensify the taste.

Step 4: Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat—about 375 to 400°F (190 to 205°C). Make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Grill the Pineapple

Place the pineapple pieces on the grill and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes per side. Look for deep grill marks and caramelization before flipping. Keep an eye on the flame to avoid burning.

Step 6: Serve Warm

Once grilled to perfection, remove the pineapple from the grill and serve warm. You can finish with a squeeze of fresh lime juice or garnish with fresh herbs if you like.

Pro Tips for Making Grilled Pineapple Recipe

Choose Ripe Pineapple: The sweeter and more fragrant the pineapple, the better the caramelization and flavor.
Uniform Slices: Cut pineapple pieces to an even thickness for consistent grilling.
Oil the Grill Grates: Prevent sticking and preserve those stunning grill marks by oiling the grill before cooking.
Don’t Overcook: Grill just until caramelized to maintain juiciness — overcooked pineapple can become dry and tough.
Experiment with Flavor: Try adding spices or a splash of alcohol like rum for a grown-up twist.

How to Serve Grilled Pineapple Recipe

Garnishes

Finish your grilled pineapple with fresh herbs like mint or basil, a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes, or a light dusting of cinnamon for added aroma and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

This grilled pineapple pairs wonderfully with grilled meats like chicken, pork, or shrimp, making it a delicious tropical side dish. It also complements creamy dishes like vanilla ice cream or coconut yogurt for dessert.

Creative Ways to Present

For an eye-catching presentation, serve pineapple slices stacked or skewered with other grilled fruits. Drizzle with a citrus glaze or a scoop of sorbet for an elegant summertime treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover grilled pineapple in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This preserves the flavor and texture, making it easy to enjoy later as a snack or topping.

Freezing

You can freeze grilled pineapple pieces on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Use within 1 to 2 months for smoothies or cooking, though texture may soften after thawing.

Reheating

Reheat gently on a grill, stovetop pan, or in the oven to restore warmth and caramelization. Avoid microwaving, which can make the pineapple mushy.

FAQs

Can I use canned pineapple for this recipe?

Fresh pineapple works best because it has a firmer texture and natural sweetness that enhances caramelization; canned pineapple is often too soft and watery for grilling.

How do I know when the pineapple is perfectly grilled?

Look for golden-brown grill marks, a slightly softened texture, and a fragrant, caramelized aroma—these are signs your pineapple is ready to enjoy.

Is this recipe suitable for vegan diets?

Yes! Simply skip honey or substitute it with maple syrup or agave nectar to keep this grilled pineapple recipe entirely plant-based.

Can I prepare the pineapple ahead of time?

Absolutely! Cut and marinate your pineapple a few hours ahead, but wait to grill just before serving for the best taste and texture.

What can I pair grilled pineapple with for a complete meal?

Grilled pineapple pairs excellently with grilled chicken, pork, shrimp, or even plant-based protein alternatives, making it a flavorful side for any summer meal.

Final Thoughts

Once you’ve tried this Grilled Pineapple Recipe, you’ll realize just how simple it is to turn a humble fruit into a sweet, smoky sensation that livens up any meal or snack time. Whether you’re firing up the grill for a weekend BBQ or simply want a tropical treat, this recipe promises flavor, freshness, and pure summer delight. Give it a go—you’ll be hooked after the first bite!

Grilled Pineapple Recipe

Author: Anna
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Total Time: 23 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Appetizers
Method: Grilling
Cuisine: Tropical
Diet: Gluten Free, Vegan (if honey omitted or replaced)

Print Recipe

Description

Discover the magic of tropical sunshine with our delightful Grilled Pineapple recipe. This easy dish caramelizes the natural sugars of fresh pineapple into a juicy, smoky treat perfect for desserts, tropical side dishes, or snacks. With simple ingredients and quick preparation, it’s an effortless way to impress at summer BBQs while enjoying a healthier, vitamin-packed indulgence.

Instructions

Prepare the Pineapple: Start by peeling the pineapple carefully and removing the core. Cut the pineapple into rings or wedges about 1/2 inch thick—uniform pieces help ensure even grilling.
Make the Marinade: In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, ground cinnamon, fresh lime juice, and a drizzle of olive or coconut oil. If you want it sweeter, add a splash of honey or maple syrup. Stir until everything is well combined.
Marinate the Pineapple: Brush or toss the pineapple pieces with the marinade, making sure each slice is coated well. Let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes to soak up those flavors and intensify the taste.
Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat—about 375 to 400°F (190 to 205°C). Make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
Grill the Pineapple: Place the pineapple pieces on the grill and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes per side. Look for deep grill marks and caramelization before flipping. Keep an eye on the flame to avoid burning.
Serve Warm: Once grilled to perfection, remove the pineapple from the grill and serve warm. You can finish with a squeeze of fresh lime juice or garnish with fresh herbs if you like.