Grilled Pinapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle

This Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle is a delightful treat that serves as both a side dish and a light dessert. The caramelized edges from grilling bring out the natural sweetness of pineapple, while the warm honey and cinnamon drizzle adds a unique twist. This recipe is perfect for summer barbecues, family gatherings, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 16 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of grilled pineapple with honey and cinnamon creates an irresistible flavor profile that pleases everyone’s palate.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a refreshing side dish or a light dessert; it pairs well with various meals and occasions.
• Healthy Option: Naturally low in calories and packed with nutrients, this dish is a guilt-free indulgence.
• Eye-Catching Presentation: The vibrant colors of grilled pineapple make it visually appealing, ensuring it steals the spotlight on any table.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this delicious grilled pineapple dish, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Non-stick spray
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups
• Spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Provides an even cooking surface for the pineapple, enhancing its natural sweetness through caramelization.
• Non-stick spray: Prevents the pineapple from sticking to the grill, ensuring easy flipping and clean-up.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining honey and cinnamon smoothly without spills.

Ingredients

For the Grilled Pineapple

• 1/2 cup honey
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1 pineapple (sliced into spears)

How to Make Grilled Pinapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle

Step 1: Prepare the Grill

On a grill prepared with non-stick spray, place pineapple slices over medium heat for about three minutes on each side. This helps achieve those beautiful grill marks while caramelizing the fruit.

Step 2: Make the Drizzle

While the pineapple is grilling, mix together the honey (softened in the microwave for about 30 seconds) and the cinnamon in a mixing bowl until well combined.

Step 3: Serve Your Dish

Drizzle the grilled pineapple with the honey mixture right before serving. Enjoy this delightful dish warm for maximum flavor!

How to Serve Grilled Pinapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle

Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it at a barbecue or as a light dessert, there are plenty of creative ideas to enhance your dining experience.

As a Side Dish

• Pair with grilled meats like chicken or pork for a sweet and savory contrast.

In a Fruit Salad

• Add sliced grilled pineapple to a fresh fruit salad for an exciting twist.

Topped on Yogurt

• Serve warm grilled pineapple over vanilla yogurt for a simple yet delicious dessert.

With Ice Cream

• For an indulgent treat, top your favorite ice cream with warm grilled pineapple and drizzle.

On Pancakes or Waffles

• Use grilled pineapple as a topping for pancakes or waffles for breakfast or brunch.

Mixed in Smoothies

• Blend the grilled pineapple into smoothies for added flavor and nutrition.

How to Perfect Grilled Pinapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle

To achieve the best flavor and texture when making Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose ripe pineapples: Select pineapples that are slightly soft to the touch and have a sweet aroma for the best taste.

• Preheat the grill: Make sure your grill is preheated before adding the pineapple to ensure even cooking and attractive grill marks.

• Cut evenly: Slice the pineapple into uniform spears to ensure they cook at the same rate without burning.

• Use fresh cinnamon: Freshly ground cinnamon will give you a more intense flavor compared to pre-ground alternatives.

• Drizzle just before serving: To maintain the texture, drizzle the honey mixture right before serving rather than beforehand.

• Experiment with spices: Try adding nutmeg or ginger to your honey drizzle for additional flavor variations.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Pinapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle

Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle pairs beautifully with several side dishes. Here are some great options that complement its sweet flavors:

1. Grilled Chicken: Marinated chicken breasts on the grill provide protein that balances the sweetness of the pineapple.

2. Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, enhancing the overall meal experience.

3. Quinoa Salad: Light and nutritious, quinoa salad adds texture and complements the tropical flavors of grilled pineapple.

4. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn, especially when grilled, pairs well with fruity dishes like this one.

5. Garlic Shrimp: Savory garlic shrimp offer a delicious contrast to the sweet glaze of the grilled pineapple.

6. Rice Pilaf: A fragrant rice pilaf can serve as a neutral backdrop, allowing the flavors of your main dish and pineapple to shine.

7. Mixed Greens Salad: A simple mixed greens salad with vinaigrette offers freshness that balances richness from other dishes.

8. Baked Beans: Sweet baked beans add depth and heartiness while complementing the sweetness of your dessert-like side dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Grilling pineapple can be simple, but certain mistakes can affect the outcome. Here are some common pitfalls and how to steer clear of them.

• mistake: Not using ripe pineapple. Always choose a ripe pineapple for the best flavor. Look for a sweet aroma and slight give when pressed.
• mistake: Skipping the grilling time. Grill each slice for about three minutes per side to achieve perfect caramelization. Overcooking can lead to mushy fruit.
• mistake: Forgetting to prepare the grill. A non-stick spray on the grill helps prevent sticking. Don’t skip this step for easy flipping!
• mistake: Using cold honey. Honey should be warmed slightly in the microwave for easier drizzling. Cold honey is too thick and won’t coat the pineapple well.
• mistake: Overloading on cinnamon. While cinnamon adds great flavor, too much can overpower the dish. Stick to one teaspoon as suggested in the recipe.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store grilled pineapple in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Ensure it is completely cooled before sealing the container.

Freezing Grilled Pinapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle

• Wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• The grilled pineapple can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Label your bags with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Grilled Pinapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 30 seconds or until warm, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Place on a skillet over low heat, turning occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Grilled Pinapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle?

Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle is a delicious side dish or dessert featuring caramelized pineapple slices topped with a sweet honey-cinnamon sauce.

How do I choose a ripe pineapple?

Look for pineapples that have a sweet scent, golden color, and slight softness at the stem end. A ripe pineapple will not have green leaves.

Can I use other spices besides cinnamon?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with spices like nutmeg or ginger if you want to vary the flavor profile of your grilled pineapple.

Is Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle healthy?

Absolutely! It’s a low-calorie treat that provides vitamins and minerals from fresh pineapple while being naturally sweetened with honey.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle is an amazing addition to any meal or gathering, providing both comfort and joy. This versatile recipe allows you to customize flavors by adjusting spices or adding toppings like coconut or nuts. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!