The moment the grill heated up, the sizzle of those sweet pineapple slices began to dance in the air, drawing everyone closer with its irresistible aroma. Have you ever experienced that delightful feeling when your favorite fruit is transformed into a savory sensation? It’s like taking a mini-vacation to a tropical paradise, right from your backyard.
This Grilled Pineapple with Sweet and Spicy Glaze is an easy, gluten-free side dish that’s bound to steal the show at your next BBQ. Perfectly caramelized and bursting with flavor, it combines the natural sweetness of juicy pineapple with a hint of spice and a drizzle of lime that truly elevates every bite. It only takes 20 minutes to prepare, making it a quick, fuss-free addition to any summer gathering—or a delightful, healthy treat on a cozy weeknight.
Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply spice up your routine, this recipe is a vibrant alternative to fast food that will have you savoring each delicious mouthful. Let’s fire up that grill and dive into this mouthwatering dish!
Why is Grilled Pineapple a Must-Try?
Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 20 minutes to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute BBQ plans.
Bold Flavors: The combination of sweet pineapple, tangy lime, and a touch of spice creates a delightful explosion of taste that’s hard to resist.
Crowd-Pleasing: Serve it as a side dish at gatherings, and watch how it becomes the star of the show, appealing to both kids and adults alike.
Versatile Option: Pair it with grilled meats, use it as a topping for burgers, or enjoy it on its own as a refreshing snack.
Healthy Indulgence: Gluten-free and packed with natural goodness, it’s a guilt-free treat that satisfies your craving for something sweet without the fast-food guilt.
Tropical Vibes: Enjoy a mini-vacation in your backyard with each juicy bite, bringing a taste of the tropics straight to your plate!
Grilled Pineapple Ingredients
• Get ready to elevate your BBQ experience!
For the Glaze
- Unsalted Butter (¼ cup) – Adds richness and ensures the glaze sticks beautifully to the pineapple. Substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free delight.
- Lime Juice (1 tablespoon) – Introduces zing and brightness that balances the sweetness; always go for fresh lime juice if possible.
- Brown Sugar (¼ cup) – Enhances the natural sweetness while helping to caramelize your grilled pineapple; honey can be used for a unique twist.
- Chili Powder (¼ teaspoon) – Adds a mild kick that uplifts the flavors; feel free to adjust depending on your spice preference.
- Ground Cinnamon (¼ teaspoon) – Offers a warm, comforting depth to the glaze; it’s optional if cinnamon isn’t your thing.
- Kosher Salt (⅛ teaspoon) – Elevates the overall taste; leave it out if you use salted butter for an even better flavor balance.
For the Pineapple
- Pineapple (1 whole) – The star of the dish! Ensure you choose a ripe fruit with a sweet aroma for the best results.
Enjoy conjuring up some tropical vibes with this Grilled Pineapple that’ll wow your guests at any gathering!
How to Make Grilled Pineapple
-
Preheat the Grill: Start by warming your grill to medium heat, around 375-400°F. This ensures your pineapple cooks evenly, developing those tantalizing grill marks.
-
Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, brown sugar, lime juice, chili powder, cinnamon, and kosher salt. Mix until smooth to create a tantalizing glaze that perfectly complements the sweet pineapple.
-
Glaze the Pineapple: Generously brush the prepared glaze over the pineapple rings. Set aside any extra glaze for later use—every bit of flavor counts!
-
Grill the Pineapple: Place the glazed pineapple slices on the hot grill and cook for about 3 minutes on each side. Look for lovely grill marks and a golden-brown caramelization for that mouthwatering finish.
-
Final Touch: Once you’ve grilled both sides, brush the reserved glaze on the pineapple before serving. This extra layer of glaze will enhance the flavors and make it even more irresistible!
Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of toasted coconut for a tropical touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Grilled Pineapple Variations
Feel free to get creative with your grilled pineapple and explore exciting twists that will tantalize your taste buds!
-
Rum-Soaked: Add a splash of coconut rum to the glaze for a tropical touch that enhances the sweetness.
-
Peachy Swap: Replace pineapple with ripe peaches for a juicy, summery alternative perfect for those who enjoy a bit of variety.
-
Watermelon Delight: Try grilling thick watermelon slices instead; the sweet, caramelized flavor will blow your mind!
-
Spicy Kick: For a kick of heat, mix in cayenne pepper or chipotle powder to the glaze—your taste buds will thank you for the adventure!
-
Maple Glaze: Swap brown sugar for pure maple syrup for a rich, caramel-like flavor that brings a hint of the outdoors to your BBQ.
-
Herbed Infusion: Incorporate finely chopped fresh mint or basil into the glaze for a refreshing herbaceous note that complements the fruit’s sweetness beautifully.
-
Zesty Addition: Add the zest of a lime or orange to the glaze before grilling to elevate the citrus flavor profile and add a burst of brightness.
-
Nutty Crunch: Top the finished grilled pineapple with chopped toasted almonds or pecans for a delightful textural contrast and added nutty flavor.
Make Ahead Options
These Grilled Pineapple slices are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the glaze up to 24 hours in advance by whisking together the melted butter, brown sugar, lime juice, chili powder, cinnamon, and kosher salt. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep the flavors fresh. As for the pineapple, slice it up to 3 days ahead, but remember to store those rings in an airtight container to prevent browning and keep them juicy. When you’re ready to serve, just brush the pre-made glaze over the pineapple and grill for about 3 minutes on each side. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll have a deliciously easy side ready in no time!
Expert Tips for Grilled Pineapple
• Choose Ripe Pineapple: Look for a pineapple with a sweet aroma and a bit of give when squeezed. Avoid fruit with green or overly orange skin for the best sweetness.
• Oil the Grate: Always oil your grill grates before placing the pineapple slices on them. This prevents sticking and ensures beautifully clean grill marks.
• Don’t Rush the Grill: Be patient when grilling. Flip the pineapple only once it has caramelized and showing good grill marks, usually after about 3 minutes.
• Extra Glaze Matters: Keep some glaze aside to brush on the pineapple just before serving. This adds an extra layer of flavor that truly elevates your grilled pineapple experience.
• Try Different Fruits: While this recipe focuses on grilled pineapple, feel free to experiment with peaches or watermelon for unique variations that are equally delicious.
What to Serve with Grilled Pineapple?
The vibrant sweetness and slightly spicy twist of grilled pineapple create a symphony of flavors that can beautifully enhance your BBQ spread.
-
BBQ Chicken: Juicy, smoky grilled chicken pairs perfectly with the tropical sweetness, creating a delightful balance of flavors.
-
Pulled Pork Sandwiches: The richness of pulled pork is brightened by the tangy glaze on the pineapple, making every bite a celebration of taste.
-
Corn on the Cob: Sweet and buttery corn complements the caramelized pineapple, adding a comforting texture to your meal.
-
Taco Night: Use sliced grilled pineapple as a taco topping to bring a fresh, fruity element that complements spicy flavors.
-
Light Salad: A simple arugula or spinach salad drizzled with lime vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch that offsets the sweetness of the pineapple.
-
Coconut Rice: Creamy coconut rice enhances the tropical theme, providing a creamy backdrop for the sweet and spicy notes of the pineapple.
-
White Wine Spritzer: For a refreshing drink, pair your meal with a light spritzer; the acidity cuts through the richness of the grilled dishes.
-
Vanilla Ice Cream: Finish off your meal with a scoop of vanilla ice cream topped with warm grilled pineapple for a delicious dessert that feels like a mini vacation!
How to Store and Freeze Grilled Pineapple
Fridge: Store leftover grilled pineapple in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This helps retain its juicy texture and vibrant flavor for your next meal.
Reheating: To enjoy your grilled pineapple again, reheat it in the microwave for about 30 seconds or warm it on a grill pan for that fresh-off-the-grill taste.
Freezer: Freezing grilled pineapple is not recommended, as it may alter the texture and flavor, resulting in a less enjoyable experience when thawed.
Grilled Pineapple Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting a pineapple?
When choosing a pineapple, look for one that has a sweet aroma and a little give when you squeeze it gently. Avoid pineapples with green or overly orange skin, as these may indicate that the fruit is not ripe or overly ripe. The ideal pineapple should have a strong fragrance and golden-yellow color, suggesting it’s at the peak of ripeness and ready for grilling.
How should I store leftover grilled pineapple?
Store your leftover grilled pineapple in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This keeps it juicy and delicious for your next meal. For reheating, you can pop it in the microwave for about 30 seconds or rewarm it on a grill pan. This way, you can enjoy that freshly grilled taste all over again!
Can I freeze grilled pineapple?
Freezing grilled pineapple is not recommended. While you can technically freeze it, the texture and flavor may change when thawed, resulting in a mushy texture that isn’t as enjoyable. For the best eating experience, it’s best to savor it fresh or store it in the fridge for a few days.
What if my grilled pineapple slices are sticking to the grill?
If your pineapple slices are sticking to the grill, ensure you oil the grill grates before placing the slices down. Additionally, let the pineapple sit undisturbed for about 3 minutes before attempting to flip them—this patience allows for caramelization and creates those lovely grill marks. If you still encounter sticking, try using a grill mat to help prevent sticking during cooking.
Are there any dietary considerations for grilled pineapple?
Absolutely! This grilled pineapple recipe is gluten-free and is a delicious option for those avoiding gluten in their meals. However, if you’re cooking for pets or have specific allergies (like to any of the ingredients), remember to double-check how those ingredients may affect their health. For example, while pineapple is generally safe for dogs in moderation, the glaze contains sugar, which should be limited.
Can I use other fruits instead of pineapple?
Definitely! While this recipe shines with pineapple, you can switch it up and use fruits like peaches, watermelon, or even nectarines for a delightful variation. Simply follow the same glazing and grilling methodology, adjusting cooking times slightly depending on the fruit’s firmness. Enjoy experimenting with your favorites!
Sweet and Spicy Grilled Pineapple: Your New BBQ Obsession
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the Grill: Start by warming your grill to medium heat, around 375-400°F.
- Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, brown sugar, lime juice, chili powder, cinnamon, and kosher salt until smooth.
- Glaze the Pineapple: Generously brush the prepared glaze over the pineapple rings.
- Grill the Pineapple: Place the glazed pineapple slices on the hot grill and cook for about 3 minutes on each side.
- Final Touch: Brush the reserved glaze on the pineapple before serving.