Grilled Pinapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle

This Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle is a delightful side dish or light dessert that brings out the natural sweetness of the pineapple with a hint of warmth from cinnamon. The grilling adds a smoky flavor, making it perfect for summer gatherings or casual dinners. The unique combination of flavors will impress your guests and elevate any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just three simple ingredients, you can whip up this dish in under 20 minutes.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it warm as a side dish or chilled as a refreshing dessert.
• Healthy Indulgence: Low in calories but high in flavor, it’s a guilt-free treat everyone will enjoy.
• Impressive Presentation: The golden caramelization on the grilled pineapple makes for an eye-catching dish.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for barbecues, picnics, or family dinners, it suits any gathering.

Tools and Preparation

To make this delicious grilled pineapple, you’ll need just a few kitchen tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Non-stick spray
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Essential for achieving that beautiful char and smoky flavor on the pineapple.
• Non-stick spray: Prevents sticking and ensures easy flipping while grilling.
• Mixing bowl: Perfect for combining honey and cinnamon for the drizzle.

Ingredients

For the Drizzle

• 1/2 cup honey
• 1 tsp cinnamon

For the Pineapple

• 1 pineapple (sliced into spears)

How to Make Grilled Pinapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle

Step 1: Prepare the Grill

Start by preheating your grill to medium heat. Lightly spray the grill grates with non-stick spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Grill the Pineapple

Place the pineapple slices on the grill. Cook them for about three minutes on each side until they are golden brown and have nice grill marks.

Step 3: Make the Cinnamon Honey Drizzle

While the pineapple is grilling, soften the honey in the microwave for about 30 seconds. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened honey with cinnamon, stirring until well mixed.

Step 4: Assemble and Serve

Once the pineapple is done grilling, remove it from the heat. Drizzle your delicious honey-cinnamon mixture over each grilled spear before serving. Enjoy your tasty creation!

How to Serve Grilled Pinapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle

Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want to serve it as a side dish or a light dessert, these suggestions will enhance your dining experience.

As a Side Dish

• Pair it with grilled chicken or turkey for a sweet contrast.
• Serve alongside salads for an added burst of flavor and texture.

As a Dessert

• Top it with vanilla ice cream or yogurt for a creamy complement.
• Add a sprinkle of chopped nuts for extra crunch and nutrition.

In Fruit Salads

• Mix diced grilled pineapple with other fruits for a refreshing summer salad.
• Drizzle some additional honey for sweetness.

For Breakfast

• Use it as a topping on pancakes or waffles for a tropical twist.
• Incorporate into your morning smoothie for added flavor and nutrients.

How to Perfect Grilled Pinapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle

Perfectly grilling pineapple requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to make sure your dish turns out just right.

• Choose ripe pineapples – Look for pineapples that are golden-yellow and have a sweet aroma. This ensures the best flavor when grilled.
• Preheat the grill – Ensuring the grill is hot before placing the pineapple will help achieve those beautiful grill marks and caramelization.
• Use non-stick spray – Spraying the grill grates will prevent the pineapple from sticking, making flipping easier.
• Cut uniform slices – Making sure that all slices are of even thickness helps them cook evenly.
• Don’t overcook – Grill each side for about three minutes to retain the pineapple’s juiciness and prevent it from becoming mushy.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Pinapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle

Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some delicious options to consider:

1. Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad mixed with fresh veggies can complement the sweetness of grilled pineapple.
2. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and balances out the sweetness of the pineapple.
3. Roasted Vegetables – Seasoned roasted vegetables provide savory flavors that contrast nicely with the sweet drizzle.
4. Rice Pilaf – Fluffy rice pilaf can absorb any extra honey and cinnamon sauce while adding texture to your meal.
5. Grilled Chicken Skewers – Juicy chicken skewers seasoned with herbs pair perfectly with this fruity side dish.
6. Couscous – Light, fluffy couscous mixed with herbs makes an excellent base beneath the grilled pineapple.
7. Black Bean Salad – A protein-packed black bean salad can provide heartiness alongside the lightness of grilled pineapple.
8. Potato Wedges – Crispy potato wedges seasoned well can offer a satisfying contrast to the sweetness of the dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Grilling pineapple can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can affect your dish. Here are some tips to ensure you get it right.

• Using unripe pineapple – Choose a ripe pineapple for the best flavor. Look for a sweet smell and a slight give when pressed.
• Not preheating the grill – Always preheat your grill to medium heat before adding the pineapple. This ensures even cooking and caramelization.
• Overcooking the pineapple – Grilling for too long can make the pineapple tough. Aim for about three minutes per side for perfect tenderness.
• Skipping the honey-cinnamon drizzle – The drizzle adds essential flavor. Don’t skip mixing honey with cinnamon; it enhances the grilled taste!
• Forgetting to use non-stick spray – Apply non-stick spray on the grill grates to prevent sticking. This makes flipping and serving easier.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover grilled pineapple in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Grilled Pinapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle

• Place cooled grilled pineapple in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months; just ensure it’s well-sealed.

Reheating Grilled Pinapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle

• Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pineapple on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat individual slices on a microwave-safe plate for 30 seconds, checking doneness as needed.
• Stovetop – Reheat in a skillet over low heat, turning occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle.

How do I choose the best pineapple for grilling?

Select a ripe pineapple that has a sweet aroma and yields slightly when pressed. A good ripe fruit will enhance your dish’s sweetness.

Can I use other fruits instead of pineapple?

Yes! Other fruits like peaches or mangoes work well on the grill. They also absorb flavors nicely when drizzled with honey and cinnamon.

What should I serve with Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle?

This dish pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, or as a light dessert alongside vanilla ice cream or yogurt.

How do I make my cinnamon honey drizzle more flavorful?

You can add a pinch of nutmeg or vanilla extract to your honey-cinnamon mixture for an extra layer of flavor that complements the grilled pineapple beautifully.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle is not just a side dish; it’s a delightful treat that brings together sweetness and spice. Feel free to customize this recipe by trying different spices or adding nuts for crunch. Enjoy this refreshing recipe at your next gathering!