When summer rolls around, my cravings shift. Suddenly, I find myself reaching for fresh fruits, vibrant greens, and anything that pairs perfectly with the lazy, sun-soaked afternoons. Caramelized grilled pineapple is a star player in that lineup. Imagine serving it alongside smoky barbecue chicken or pork skewers—perfection.
It enhances sharp cheeses like goat or feta while complementing spicy salsas or zesty dips. And let’s not forget the potential for delightful dessert pairings. This grilled treat can seamlessly elevate a scoop of coconut ice cream or become a showstopper in a fruit salad. The sweet, caramelized exterior mingling with its juicy core creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist.
The Allure of Grilled Pineapple
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As I settled into a sunny afternoon, marinating in a warm breeze, I realized that grilled pineapple is more than just a dish; it’s an experience. This recipe captures summer’s essence in a simple yet delightful way. It offers warmth, nostalgia, and flavor that hits all the right notes. Not only is it a crowd-pleaser, but it also provides an exciting twist to your usual barbecue fare.
Plus, what’s not to love about a dish that comes together in mere minutes? Using fresh, quality ingredients, I’ve crafted this recipe so you can spend less time cooking and more time enjoying. Whether you’re hosting a small gathering or having a quiet dinner, this caramelized grilled pineapple will steal the show.
My Ingredients Adventure
Let’s talk ingredients. Each component is selected with care, ensuring that the final product achieves the right balance of sweetness and richness. First, there’s that ripe pineapple. Choosing the perfect pineapple can make all the difference. It should be fragrant and give slightly to pressure.
Then, there’s brown sugar—a simple pantry staple that adds depth with its hints of molasses. Next is unsalted butter, adding that creamy richness. A touch of vanilla rounds it out, while ground cinnamon elevates the flavor to another level.
Here’s what you need to create this glorious dish:
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup packed brown sugar
1 ripe pineapple, sliced into long spears
½ cup melted unsalted butter
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Step-by-Step Guide to Caramelized Grilled Pineapple
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Start by combining the brown sugar, melted unsalted butter, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon in a small bowl. Mix it well until the brown sugar dissolves a bit into the butter, creating a luscious, fragrant marinade. Trust me; the aroma alone will have you drooling.
Step 2: Slice the Pineapple
Take your ripe pineapple and slice it into long spears. Aim for about ½ inch thick. This thickness allows them to cook evenly on the grill while maintaining their juicy integrity. If you’ve never sliced a pineapple before, don’t worry! Slice off both ends, then stand it upright and slice down, removing the tough skin. Simple.
Step 3: Marinate the Pineapple
Place the pineapple spears in a large bowl and pour the marinade over them. Ensure each spear gets coated. Allow them to soak for at least 10 minutes. If you have time, letting them marinate for 30 minutes will amplify the flavors even more.
Step 4: Preheat the Grill
While the pineapple marinates, preheat your grill. Aim for medium-high heat. If you’re using a gas grill, this will be straightforward. If you’re using charcoal, wait until the coals are covered in gray ash. A hot grill is essential for a good caramelization.
Step 5: Grill the Pineapple
Once the grill is ready, place the marinated pineapple spears on the grate. Grill each side for about 3–4 minutes. You’re looking for nice grill marks and that beautiful caramelization. If you have a basting brush, brush on some extra marinade halfway through for an added sweet glaze.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once grilled to perfection, remove the pineapple from the grill and let rest for a minute. Serve warm—perhaps with a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper for an unexpected kick. Enjoy as is, or ladle some vanilla ice cream over the top for an indulgent dessert.
Recipe Notes
Pineapple: Choosing ripe pineapple is crucial. Look for a sweet smell at the base and slight give when pressed.
Brown Sugar: Dark brown sugar will yield a deeper flavor due to its higher molasses content, but light brown sugar also works. Use what you have!
Butter: Unsalted butter is recommended for this recipe to control the saltiness level.
Vanilla Extract: Quality counts. Pure vanilla extract gives depth that’s hard to replicate with imitation varieties.
Cinnamon: Freshly ground cinnamon can elevate the flavor profile significantly. Look for a warm, fragrant smell.
Nutrition Information
Recipe Variations
This dish is flexible. Here are few variations to keep things exciting:
Coconut Glaze: Swap the butter for coconut oil for a tropical twist.
Spices: Add a sprinkle of cayenne for a kick or nutmeg for a warm fall flavor.
Herbal Infusion: Infuse the marinade with fresh mint or basil for a refreshing earthy note.
Balsamic Reduction: Brush the spears with a balsamic glaze just before serving for a tangy contrast.
Charred Fruit Salad: Toss grilled pineapple with other grilled fruits like peaches or watermelon for a vibrant salad.
Add Toppings: Serve with crushed nuts, shredded coconut, or a dollop of Greek yogurt for added texture and flavor.
Caramelized Grilled Pineapple
Equipment
- Grill, Bowl
Ingredients
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- 1 ripe pineapple sliced into long spears
- ½ cup melted unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
- Start by combining the brown sugar, melted unsalted butter, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon in a small bowl. Mix it well until the brown sugar dissolves a bit into the butter, creating a luscious, fragrant marinade. Trust me; the aroma alone will have you drooling.
Step 2: Slice the Pineapple
- Take your ripe pineapple and slice it into long spears. Aim for about ½ inch thick. This thickness allows them to cook evenly on the grill while maintaining their juicy integrity. If you’ve never sliced a pineapple before, don’t worry! Slice off both ends, then stand it upright and slice down, removing the tough skin. Simple.
Step 3: Marinate the Pineapple
- Place the pineapple spears in a large bowl and pour the marinade over them. Ensure each spear gets coated. Allow them to soak for at least 10 minutes. If you have time, letting them marinate for 30 minutes will amplify the flavors even more.
Step 4: Preheat the Grill
- While the pineapple marinates, preheat your grill. Aim for medium-high heat. If you’re using a gas grill, this will be straightforward. If you’re using charcoal, wait until the coals are covered in gray ash. A hot grill is essential for a good caramelization.
Step 5: Grill the Pineapple
- Once the grill is ready, place the marinated pineapple spears on the grate. Grill each side for about 3–4 minutes. You’re looking for nice grill marks and that beautiful caramelization. If you have a basting brush, brush on some extra marinade halfway through for an added sweet glaze.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Once grilled to perfection, remove the pineapple from the grill and let rest for a minute. Serve warm—perhaps with a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper for an unexpected kick. Enjoy as is, or ladle some vanilla ice cream over the top for an indulgent dessert.
Notes
Brown Sugar: Dark brown sugar will yield a deeper flavor due to its higher molasses content, but light brown sugar also works. Use what you have!
Butter: Unsalted butter is recommended for this recipe to control the saltiness level.
Vanilla Extract: Quality counts. Pure vanilla extract gives depth that’s hard to replicate with imitation varieties.
Cinnamon: Freshly ground cinnamon can elevate the flavor profile significantly. Look for a warm, fragrant smell.
Nutrition
FAQs
1. Can I use canned pineapple?
Canned pineapple can work, but fresh is best for this recipe. Canned options tend to be softer and may not caramelize as well.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the grill or stovetop before serving for the best taste.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
While the marinated spears can be prepared in advance, it’s best to grill them just before serving to maintain their luscious texture.
4. What grill temperature is best?
Medium-high heat is ideal for achieving proper caramelization. If it’s too hot, the outside may burn before the inside softens.
5. What’s a good substitute for brown sugar?
If you’re in a pinch, granulated sugar can work too, but it won’t deliver the same rich flavor. Alternatively, try coconut sugar for a similar depth.
6. Can I add a sauce or glaze to this?
Absolutely! A drizzle of honey, maple syrup, or a homemade syrup can make for a delightful finishing touch.
Conclusion
Caramelized grilled pineapple brightens up anything it touches. This sweet, golden dish is simple yet sophisticated, making it an ideal addition to summer gatherings or a laid-back weeknight dinner. Each bite delivers a burst of flavor, reminiscent of sunny days spent with loved ones.
So fire up that grill, embrace your inner chef, and bring this incredible recipe to life. You might just find that caramelized grilled pineapple becomes a frequent guest in your kitchen—after all, summer is too fleeting to miss out on such a delight!
