Grilled Pinapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle

This Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle is a delightful treat that works perfectly as a side dish or a light dessert. The unique combination of grilling and a sweet cinnamon honey sauce elevates the natural flavors of pineapple, making it an ideal addition to summer barbecues, family gatherings, or even casual weeknight dinners. Discover how easy and enjoyable this recipe can be!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With minimal ingredients and quick cooking time, you can whip up this dish in just 16 minutes.
• Delicious Flavor: The caramelization from grilling combined with the sweetness of honey and warmth of cinnamon creates an unforgettable taste experience.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a refreshing side for grilled meats or enjoy it as a light dessert topped with yogurt or ice cream.
• Healthy Choice: Pineapple is packed with vitamins, and when paired with honey, it becomes a naturally sweet treat that satisfies cravings without guilt.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start grilling, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Non-stick spray
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk or spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Provides the perfect heat for caramelizing the pineapple and enhancing its natural sweetness.
• Non-stick spray: Prevents the pineapple from sticking to the grill, ensuring easy flipping and clean-up.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining the honey and cinnamon, making it easier to drizzle over the grilled fruit.

Ingredients

For the Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle

• 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.

Step 2: Mix the Sauce

While the pineapple is grilling:
Softened honey in the microwave for about 30 seconds.
Mix together the softened honey and cinnamon in a bowl until well combined.

Step 3: Drizzle and Serve

Once the pineapple has grill marks:
Drizzle it generously with the honey-cinnamon mixture.
Serve immediately for an unforgettable taste experience!

How to Serve Grilled Pinapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle

Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you are serving it as a side or a light dessert, here are some tasty serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

As a Standalone Dessert

• Serve warm: The grilled pineapple tastes best when served warm, allowing the honey drizzle to melt slightly.
• Add whipped cream: For an indulgent treat, top with a dollop of whipped cream for added creaminess.

With Yogurt

• Pair with Greek yogurt: The tanginess of Greek yogurt complements the sweetness of the grilled pineapple perfectly.
• Create a parfait: Layer grilled pineapple with yogurt and granola for a delicious breakfast or snack.

On Top of Ice Cream

• Use vanilla ice cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully with the warm, sweet pineapple.
• Try coconut ice cream: For an exotic twist, coconut ice cream enhances the tropical flavors of the dish.

As a Side Dish

• Enjoy with grilled meats: Grilled pineapple adds a sweet contrast to savory dishes like chicken or pork.
• Serve alongside salads: Chopped grilled pineapple can elevate a fresh salad with its juicy sweetness.

How to Perfect Grilled Pinapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle

To ensure your Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle turns out perfect every time, follow these helpful tips. These simple guidelines will help you achieve maximum flavor and texture.

• Choose ripe pineapples: Look for pineapples that are slightly soft at the base and have a sweet aroma for the best flavor.
• Preheat your grill: Ensure your grill is preheated before adding pineapple slices to achieve those beautiful grill marks.
• Use non-stick spray generously: This will prevent the pineapple from sticking and make flipping easier during grilling.
• Monitor cooking time: Grill each side for about three minutes, but watch closely to avoid burning.
• Serve immediately: Grilled pineapple tastes best fresh off the grill while it’s still warm and juicy.

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 excellent options that complement its sweet flavors.

1. Grilled Chicken – Juicy grilled chicken seasoned simply allows the sweetness of the pineapple to shine through.
2. Balsamic Glazed Asparagus – The tangy balsamic adds depth and balances well with the sweetness of the pineapple.
3. Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad mixed with herbs offers a refreshing crunch alongside grilled pineapple.
4. Coleslaw – Creamy coleslaw provides a crunchy contrast, making it an ideal side for BBQ meals.
5. Black Bean Tacos – Serve in tacos topped with grilled pineapple for a flavorful twist on traditional toppings.
6. Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn complements the flavors of grilled pineapple beautifully during summer gatherings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Grilling pineapple can be a delightful experience, but certain mistakes can ruin this simple recipe. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the Preheat: Not preheating the grill can lead to uneven cooking. Always ensure your grill is hot before adding the pineapple for perfect grill marks and flavor.
• Using Cold Pineapple: Grilling cold pineapple can cause it to cook unevenly. Let your pineapple slices sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before grilling.
• Overcooking the Pineapple: Grilling too long can make the pineapple tough. Aim for about three minutes on each side for a tender, juicy result.
• Not Adjusting Honey Consistency: Using thick honey can make it hard to drizzle evenly. Warm honey in the microwave to soften it and mix in cinnamon for a smooth drizzle.
• Ignoring Presentation: A simple garnish like fresh mint can elevate your dish visually. Consider adding some herbs or nuts for extra flair.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Grilled Pinapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle

• Wrap grilled pineapple tightly in plastic wrap or place in freezer-safe bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Grilled Pinapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 30 seconds, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat, warming gently while turning occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making grilled pineapple, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries.

How do I prepare Grilled Pinapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle?

To prepare this dish, slice the pineapple into spears, grill them until marked, and drizzle with a mixture of honey and cinnamon.

Can I use other fruits for grilling?

Absolutely! Fruits like peaches, mangoes, or watermelon also work well on the grill and pair beautifully with honey and cinnamon.

What is the best way to serve Grilled Pinapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle?

Serve it warm as a side dish or light dessert. It pairs wonderfully with ice cream or yogurt!

How long does grilled pineapple last?

Grilled pineapple stays fresh for about 3 days when stored properly in the refrigerator and up to 2 months when frozen.

Final Thoughts

This Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding spices or experimenting with different fruits. It’s perfect as a side dish or a light dessert that everyone will love!