Grilled Pinapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle

This Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle is a delightful side dish or light dessert that will elevate any meal. The grilling brings out the natural sweetness of the pineapple, while the cinnamon honey drizzle adds a warm, comforting flavor. Perfect for summer barbecues, gatherings, or a quick treat at home, this recipe stands out with its simplicity and delicious taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 16 minutes from prep to plate, making it perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.
• Healthy and Refreshing: Grilled pineapple is a nutritious option that provides vitamins and minerals while satisfying your sweet tooth.
• Versatile Enjoyment: Serve it as a side dish at cookouts or as a dessert topped with ice cream for a unique twist.
• Flavorful Combination: The blend of grilled fruit with honey and cinnamon creates an unforgettable taste experience that everyone will love.
• Impressive Presentation: Beautifully charred pineapple spears drizzled with honey look stunning on any table.

Tools and Preparation

To make this recipe come to life, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes 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 high heat necessary to caramelize the sugars in the pineapple, enhancing its flavor.
• Non-stick spray: Ensures that the pineapple slices don’t stick to the grill, making flipping them easier and cleaning up a breeze.
• Mixing bowl: A must-have for combining the honey and cinnamon without making a mess.
• Whisk or spoon: Helps in thoroughly mixing the ingredients to create a smooth 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 over medium heat. Use non-stick spray on the grill grates to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Grill the Pineapple

Place the sliced pineapple spears directly on the prepared grill:
1. Grill for about three minutes on one side.
2. Flip and grill for another three minutes until golden brown with nice grill marks.

Step 3: Mix Honey and Cinnamon

While your pineapple is grilling:
1. In a mixing bowl, soften the honey in the microwave for about 30 seconds.
2. Add in the cinnamon and mix well until combined.

Step 4: Drizzle and Serve

Once the grilled pineapple is ready:
1. Remove from heat and drizzle generously with the cinnamon honey mixture.
2. Serve immediately to enjoy warm!

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. Its sweet and spicy flavor profile makes it a versatile choice, perfect for different occasions and pairings.

As a Light Dessert

• Serve warm: The warm grilled pineapple pairs beautifully with the drizzle, creating a comforting dessert.
• Add ice cream: Vanilla or coconut ice cream complements the flavors perfectly, adding creaminess.

As a Side Dish

• Pair with grilled meats: The sweetness of the pineapple balances well with savory grilled chicken or turkey.
• Serve alongside salads: A fresh green salad topped with grilled pineapple can elevate your meal.

In Breakfast Bowls

• Top yogurt: Use as a topping for Greek yogurt for a fresh breakfast option, drizzled with honey for extra sweetness.
• Mix into oatmeal: Chopped grilled pineapple adds sweetness and flavor to your morning oatmeal.

How to Perfect Grilled Pinapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle

Creating the perfect Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to enhance your grilling experience.

• Choose ripe pineapples: Select pineapples that are golden yellow and slightly soft to the touch for optimal sweetness.
• Preheat your grill: Make sure your grill is hot before placing the pineapple on it. This will give you nice grill marks and caramelization.
• Use non-stick spray generously: Prevent sticking by coating the grill grates well before grilling the pineapple.
• Monitor grilling time: Grill each side for about three minutes to achieve perfect tenderness without losing the shape.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add other spices like nutmeg or ginger for added flavor in your drizzle.
• Serve immediately: Enjoy your grilled pineapple right off the grill for the best taste and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Pinapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle

Pairing your Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle with complementary side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers – Juicy chicken skewers seasoned with herbs make a great addition to this sweet dish.
2. Quinoa Salad – A refreshing quinoa salad loaded with vegetables offers a healthy contrast to the sweetness of the pineapple.
3. Vegetable Stir-Fry – Colorful veggies sautéed in light soy sauce provide a savory touch that balances out the flavors.
4. Coconut Rice – Creamy coconut rice enhances tropical flavors and brings richness to your plate.
5. Coleslaw – A crunchy coleslaw adds texture and freshness, making it an ideal companion for grilled dishes.
6. Roasted Sweet Potatoes – The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes pairs well, creating harmony on your plate.
7. Mixed Green Salad – A simple salad dressed lightly can refresh your palate between bites of rich flavors.
8. Baked Plantains – Sweet baked plantains offer another layer of sweetness while complementing grilled items beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Grilling pineapple can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture of your dish. Here are some tips to ensure your Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle turns out perfectly.

• Skipping the marinade: Not marinating the pineapple can lead to less flavor. A quick soak in honey and cinnamon enhances the taste before grilling.
• Using unripe pineapple: An unripe pineapple lacks sweetness. Choose a ripe pineapple with a fragrant smell and firm, golden skin for the best results.
• Not preheating the grill: Grilling on an unheated surface can result in sticking and uneven cooking. Always preheat your grill to medium heat before adding the pineapple.
• Overcooking the pineapple: Cooking too long will make it mushy. Aim for about three minutes per side for perfect grill marks while keeping it juicy.
• Neglecting presentation: A plain serving may not entice everyone. Drizzling extra cinnamon honey on top and adding fresh mint can elevate the look of your dish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Grilled Pinapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle

• Freeze grilled pineapple by placing it in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• It can be stored for up to 3 months, though quality may diminish over time.

Reheating Grilled Pinapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat on high for 30 seconds at a time until warmed through, taking care not to overcook.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over medium heat, cooking each piece briefly until warmed, about 2-3 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle, along with their answers.

Can I use other fruits instead of pineapple?

You can definitely experiment! Peaches, mangoes, or even bananas work well when grilled and drizzled with honey.

How do I know when my pineapple is ripe?

A ripe pineapple will have a sweet aroma at its base and slightly give when pressed. Look for a golden color for ripeness.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Substitute honey with agave syrup or maple syrup for a completely plant-based option.

What is the best way to cut a pineapple?

Cut off the top and bottom first. Stand it upright and slice off the skin from top to bottom, then cut into spears or rings as desired.

Can I prepare it ahead of time?

Yes! You can grill the pineapple ahead of time and then reheat just before serving with the drizzle.

Final Thoughts

This Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle recipe is not only simple but also deliciously versatile. It serves as an excellent side dish or light dessert that showcases fresh flavors. Feel free to customize by adding different spices or toppings based on your preferences!