Grilled Pinapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle

This Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle is a delightful treat that can elevate any meal or serve as a light dessert. The grilling process enhances the natural sweetness of the pineapple, while the cinnamon honey drizzle adds an irresistible touch. Perfect for summer barbecues, family gatherings, or a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to impress your guests with its simplicity and flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just three ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up this delicious dish in under 20 minutes.
• Versatile Delight: Serve it as a refreshing side for grilled meats or enjoy it as a light dessert topped with yogurt.
• Healthful Choice: Packed with vitamins and antioxidants, pineapple is not only tasty but also good for you.
• Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors and appealing aroma of grilled pineapple make it a standout on any table.
• Customizable Flavor: Feel free to add your favorite spices or toppings to personalize this dish.

Tools and Preparation

To make Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle, you’ll need a few essential tools that will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Essential for achieving those beautiful grill marks and enhancing the flavor of the pineapple.
• Non-stick spray: Prevents sticking, ensuring easy flipping of the pineapple slices during grilling.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining the honey and cinnamon evenly before drizzling over the grilled fruit.

Ingredients

For the Cinnamon Honey Drizzle

• 1/2 cup honey
• 1 tsp cinnamon

For the Grilled Pineapple

• 1 pineapple (sliced into spears)

How to Make Grilled Pinapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle

Step 1: Prepare the Grill

Begin 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.
• Grill for about three minutes on each side until golden brown and slightly caramelized.

Step 3: Make the Cinnamon Honey Drizzle

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

Step 4: Serve It Up!

Once grilled, remove the pineapple from the grill.
* Drizzle generously with your cinnamon honey mixture before serving. Enjoy your sweet creation!

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’re serving it as a side dish at a summer barbecue or as a light dessert, these suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

As a Standalone Dessert

• Serve warm grilled pineapple drizzled with the cinnamon honey sauce for a simple yet satisfying dessert.

With Vanilla Ice Cream

• Pair the grilled pineapple with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream. The contrast of warm and cold enhances the flavors beautifully.

On Top of Yogurt

• Add grilled pineapple spears to a bowl of yogurt for a refreshing and healthy breakfast or snack option.

In Fruit Salad

• Cut the grilled pineapple into smaller pieces and mix it into a vibrant fruit salad for added sweetness and texture.

As a Topping for Pancakes

• Use the grilled pineapple as a topping on pancakes or waffles, drizzling extra honey over the top for an indulgent breakfast treat.

With Grilled Chicken or Fish

• Serve alongside grilled chicken or fish dishes to add a sweet and tangy flavor that complements savory proteins.

How to Perfect Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle

Achieving the perfect grilled pineapple requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you master this delicious recipe.

• Choose ripe pineapples: Look for pineapples that are slightly soft to the touch and have a sweet aroma at the base. This ensures maximum sweetness when grilled.
• Preheat your grill: Make sure your grill is hot before placing the pineapple on it. This helps create beautiful grill marks and caramelizes the sugars for enhanced flavor.
• Cut evenly: Slice the pineapple into uniform spears to ensure even cooking. This prevents some pieces from being overcooked while others remain undercooked.
• Use non-stick spray: Lightly spray the grill grates with non-stick spray before grilling. This prevents sticking and makes flipping easier.
• Don’t rush the grilling: Allow each side of the pineapple slices to grill for about three minutes. This gives them time to develop those wonderful charred flavors.
• Drizzle generously: After grilling, make sure to drizzle enough cinnamon honey sauce over each piece for optimal flavor enhancement.

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 great options to complement your meal:

1. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and lemon vinaigrette adds brightness to your plate.
2. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw with cabbage, carrots, and a tangy dressing offers texture and balance against the sweetness of the pineapple.
3. Grilled Veggies: Seasoned zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus cooked on the grill provide a smoky flavor that pairs well.
4. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf cooked with herbs brings an aromatic touch that complements fruity dishes like grilled pineapple.
5. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with garlic and herbs add heartiness alongside sweet grilled treats.
6. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter or herb spread enhances summer vibes when served next to tropical flavors.
7. Couscous: Fluffy couscous mixed with fresh herbs creates a light yet satisfying side dish that balances out sweetness.
8. Mixed Green Salad: A simple mixed green salad dressed lightly allows other strong flavors like grilled pineapple to shine through without overpowering them.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle, keep these common mistakes in mind to ensure delicious results.

• Skipping the Preheating: Not preheating your grill can lead to uneven grilling. Always preheat for a few minutes before adding the pineapple.
• Using Unripe Pineapple: An unripe pineapple will not caramelize well on the grill. Choose a ripe pineapple that feels slightly soft and has a sweet aroma.
• Ignoring Grill Marks: Overcrowding the grill prevents proper searing. Give each slice enough space for beautiful grill marks and even cooking.
• Forgetting to Soften Honey: Cold honey is difficult to drizzle. Softening it in the microwave makes it easier to blend with cinnamon and pour over the grilled fruit.
• Not Adjusting for Heat: Cooking on too high heat can burn the pineapple quickly. Medium heat is ideal for a perfect golden brown without burning.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Best consumed within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Grilled Pinapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Will last up to 2 months in the freezer.

Reheating Grilled Pinapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place pineapple on a baking sheet and heat for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30-60 seconds, checking regularly to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use other fruits?

Absolutely! Peaches, mangoes, and bananas also work well when grilled with cinnamon honey drizzle.

How long does grilled pineapple last?

Grilled pineapple can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.

What can I serve with grilled pineapple?

Grilled pineapple pairs beautifully with vanilla ice cream, yogurt, or as a topping on pancakes.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can grill the pineapple ahead and store it. Just drizzle with cinnamon honey right before serving for the best flavor.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle is not only delicious but also versatile! This dish is perfect as a side or light dessert, suitable for summer gatherings or cozy family dinners. Feel free to customize it by adding other spices or serving it alongside your favorite toppings!