Grilled Pinapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle

This Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle is a perfect side dish or light dessert! The caramelized sweetness of the grilled pineapple, enhanced by a luscious honey and cinnamon drizzle, makes this recipe stand out. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, enjoying a family dinner, or simply craving a refreshing treat, this dish fits every occasion. Its simplicity and vibrant flavors are sure to impress your guests or family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 16 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of grilled pineapple and warm cinnamon honey creates an irresistible taste.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a dessert, side dish, or even breakfast topping for pancakes or yogurt.
• Healthy Choice: With fresh fruit and natural sweeteners, this dish is a guilt-free indulgence.
• Great for Gatherings: Impress your friends at parties or cookouts with this unique yet simple recipe.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. For this recipe, you’ll need some essential equipment to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Provides the perfect heat for charring the pineapple to enhance its natural sweetness.
• Non-stick spray: Ensures easy removal of pineapple slices without sticking to the grill.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining honey and cinnamon smoothly before drizzling.

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

Preheat your grill over medium heat. Spray it lightly with non-stick spray to prevent the pineapple from sticking.

Step 2: Grill the Pineapple

• Place the sliced pineapple spears on the grill.
• Grill for about three minutes on each side until they are caramelized and have grill marks.

Step 3: Make the Cinnamon Honey Drizzle

While grilling, soften the honey in the microwave for about 30 seconds.
* In a mixing bowl, combine the softened honey with cinnamon.

Step 4: Assemble and Serve

Once the pineapple is done grilling:
* Drizzle it generously with the honey-cinnamon mixture.
* Serve immediately while warm for an unforgettable treat!

This Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle is not only easy to make but also adds a special touch to any meal. Enjoy!

How to Serve Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle

Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want to serve it as a side dish or a light dessert, there are numerous delicious combinations to enhance its flavor.

As a Standalone Dessert

• Serve warm: Enjoy the grilled pineapple slices straight off the grill while they’re still warm, allowing the honey drizzle to melt slightly into the fruit.
• Pair with ice cream: A scoop of vanilla or coconut ice cream complements the sweetness of the pineapple and adds a creamy texture.

In a Fruit Salad

• Toss with other fruits: Combine grilled pineapple with strawberries, blueberries, and kiwi for a vibrant fruit salad that bursts with flavors.
• Add mint: Sprinkle fresh mint leaves on top for an extra refreshing touch.

As a Side Dish

• Pair with grilled chicken: The sweetness of the pineapple contrasts beautifully with savory grilled chicken, creating a balanced meal.
• Accompany lamb or turkey: The rich flavors of lamb or turkey go well with the caramelized notes from the grilled pineapple.

On Breakfast Dishes

• Top pancakes or waffles: Use grilled pineapple as a topping on your favorite breakfast items for a tropical twist.
• Add to yogurt bowls: Mix grilled pineapple into Greek yogurt and sprinkle some granola for added crunch.

How to Perfect Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle

To make your Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle truly unforgettable, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose ripe pineapples: A ripe pineapple will yield better sweetness and flavor when grilled. Look for ones that are slightly soft and fragrant.
• Preheat your grill: Ensure your grill is hot before placing the pineapple on it. This helps achieve those beautiful grill marks and caramelizes the sugars.
• Use non-stick spray liberally: Prevent sticking by applying enough non-stick spray to both the grill grates and the pineapple slices.
• Experiment with spices: Try adding nutmeg or allspice to the honey mixture for an extra layer of flavor that complements cinnamon well.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle

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

1. Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad mixed with cucumber, bell peppers, and a citrus vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast.
2. Coleslaw – Creamy coleslaw adds crunch and balances the sweetness of the grilled pineapple perfectly.
3. Vegetable Skewers – Colorful skewers of zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes bring vibrant flavors alongside your dish.
4. Rice Pilaf – A fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with herbs provides a hearty base that complements the sweet notes of the pineapple.
5. Grilled Asparagus – Tender asparagus spears charred on the grill add an earthy taste that pairs nicely with sweet fruit.
6. Roasted Sweet Potatoes – Sweet potatoes roasted until crispy enhance the overall flavor profile while adding comfort to your meal.
7. Couscous Salad – Fluffy couscous mixed with parsley, lemon juice, and olives makes for an easy-to-make side that’s full of flavors.
8. Creamy Polenta – Smooth polenta topped with grated cheese creates a rich side dish that contrasts delightfully with sweet grilled pineapple.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Grilling pineapple can be simple, but there are common mistakes to watch out for. Here’s how to ensure your Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle turns out perfectly every time.

• Boldly choose the right pineapple – Using an overripe or underripe pineapple can affect flavor. Ensure your pineapple is golden and slightly soft to the touch for the best results.
• Carefully monitor grilling time – Overcooking can lead to mushy pineapple. Grill each side for about three minutes and check for grill marks before flipping.
• Evenly coat with honey – Applying too much honey at once can cause burning. Mix well and drizzle evenly to enhance flavor without overwhelming the fruit.
• Use proper grill temperature – Grilling on low heat can lead to uneven cooking. Aim for medium heat to achieve a nice char without burning.
• Avoid skipping the cinnamon – Cinnamon is essential for that extra flavor. Don’t skip it; mix well with honey for a balanced taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Grilled Pinapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle

• Wrap the grilled pineapple in plastic wrap or place it in freezer bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Grilled Pinapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle

• Oven – Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pineapple on a baking sheet and warm for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat on medium power in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
• Stovetop – Warm in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes, turning occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

What is the best way to slice a pineapple?

To slice a pineapple, cut off both ends, stand it upright, and carefully slice down the sides to remove the skin. Then cut into spears or rings as desired.

Can I use other fruits instead of pineapple?

Yes! Other fruits like peaches or mangoes also grill well and can be drizzled with cinnamon honey for similar deliciousness.

How do I know when my grilled pineapple is done?

Your grilled pineapple is done when you see nice grill marks and it feels slightly tender but not mushy. About three minutes per side usually does the trick.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute honey with agave syrup or maple syrup to keep it plant-based while still delicious.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle is not just a delightful side dish; it’s also a light dessert packed with flavor. The grilling enhances its sweetness, while cinnamon and honey create an irresistible glaze. Feel free to customize by adding other spices or serving it alongside yogurt or ice cream!