This honey glazed grilled pineapple is a juicy treat that’s super easy to make! The sweet honey caramelizes beautifully, giving it a delicious, golden glow that makes it hard to resist.
Honestly, how can you not smile while grilling pineapple? It makes any BBQ feel like a tropical getaway! 🌴 I love serving it with ice cream for a simple dessert that’s sure to impress.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: Choose a ripe pineapple for optimal sweetness. Look for one that gives slightly when pressed, and has a sweet aroma at the base. If pineapple isn’t available, you could try grilling peaches or mangoes instead for a similar sweet flavor.
Honey: Any honey will work, but if you’re looking for a deeper flavor, consider using local wildflower honey. For a vegan alternative, maple syrup can substitute well and provides a unique taste.
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice is ideal for a zesty kick. However, bottled lime juice can be used in a pinch. Just keep in mind that fresh will always taste brighter!
Ground Cinnamon: This is optional but adds warmth to the flavor. If you prefer, try nutmeg or even ginger for a different twist!
Mint Leaves: Fresh mint brightens up the dish. If you don’t have mint, basil can create an interesting flavor too.
How Do I Cut a Pineapple Safely?
Cutting a pineapple can be tricky, but with these steps, you’ll have it ready in no time! Make sure to use a sharp knife and be careful as you cut through the tough skin and core.
- First, place the pineapple on a stable cutting board. Cut off the top and the bottom to create a flat base.
- Stand the pineapple upright and slice down the sides, removing the skin in strips. Be sure to cut deep enough to get rid of the “eyes.”
- Once the skin is removed, slice the pineapple into 1/2-inch thick rings, and use a knife or round cutter to remove the core from each ring. This part is key so the rings are tender when grilled.
Just take it slow and be cautious, and you’ll have perfect pineapple slices ready for the grill!
How to Make Honey Glazed Grilled Pineapple
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 ripe pineapple
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 8-10 minutes to grill. So, you’ll be enjoying your delicious honey glazed grilled pineapple in about 20 minutes total!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Grill:
First, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures that the pineapple will grill nicely and get those beautiful marks.
2. Cut the Pineapple:
Start by carefully cutting off the top and bottom of the pineapple to create a stable base. Stand the pineapple upright and slice off the skin in vertical strips, making sure to remove any of those prickly “eyes” using a paring knife. When you’re done, cut the pineapple into 1/2-inch thick rings and don’t forget to remove the core from each slice!
3. Mix the Honey Glaze:
In a small bowl, mix together the honey and lime juice. If you like, add in the ground cinnamon for a warm flavor. This mixture is what will make your pineapple sweet and tasty!
4. Brush the Pineapple:
Generously brush both sides of the pineapple rings with the honey-lime mixture. Don’t be shy, the more the merrier!
5. Grill the Pineapple:
Place the pineapple rings carefully on the grill. Grill them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until you see those lovely grill marks and the pineapple starts to caramelize. This process really enhances the sweetness!
6. Finish and Serve:
Once grilled, remove the pineapple from the grill and drizzle any remaining honey-lime mixture over the top. If you’d like, add some fresh mint leaves for a beautiful garnish. Enjoy your warm, sweet, and slightly tangy honey glazed grilled pineapple!
Can I Use Canned Pineapple Instead of Fresh Pineapple?
Yes, you can use canned pineapple, but the texture will be different and it may not caramelize as well on the grill. Drain the canned pineapple slices thoroughly and pat them dry with paper towels before brushing them with the honey-lime mixture and grilling for 2-3 minutes on each side.
What If I Don’t Have Honey on Hand?
No problem! You can substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar. Both will provide a similar sweetness. If you want a sugar-free option, consider using a sugar substitute that measures like sugar.
How Do I Store Leftover Grilled Pineapple?
Store any leftover grilled pineapple in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave for a few seconds or give it a quick sear on the grill to warm it up and restore some grill marks.
Can I Make This Recipe Without a Grill?
Absolutely! You can use a grill pan on the stove instead. Preheat the pan over medium-high heat and grill the pineapple rings for the same amount of time per side. Alternatively, you can broil them in the oven by placing them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and broiling for 2-3 minutes per side.
