Grilled Pinapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle

This Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle is a perfect side dish or light dessert! The extra flavor from grilling combined with the amazing honey-cinnamon sauce makes this a delightful recipe for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a sweet treat, this dish stands out with its simple preparation and vibrant flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With minimal ingredients and quick steps, you’ll have this delicious dish ready in no time.
• Versatile Serving Options: Perfect as a side for savory meals or as a sweet standalone dessert.
• Flavorful Combination: The sweet, caramelized pineapple paired with the warm honey and cinnamon creates an unforgettable taste experience.
• Healthier Dessert Choice: This recipe offers a lighter alternative to traditional desserts while still being satisfying.
• Great for Gatherings: Impress your guests with this unique yet easy-to-make dish that everyone will enjoy.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Non-stick spray
• Mixing bowl
• Microwave-safe container

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Provides that perfect char and smoky flavor that elevates the pineapple.
• Non-stick spray: Prevents sticking and ensures an easy grilling process.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining the honey and cinnamon smoothly.
• Microwave-safe container: Quickly softens honey for easy mixing without hassle.

Ingredients

For the Sauce

• 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 heating your grill over medium heat. Lightly coat the grill grates with non-stick spray to prevent 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 nice grill marks.

Step 3: Mix Honey and Cinnamon

While the pineapple grills, prepare your drizzle.
* In a microwave-safe container, soften the honey by microwaving it for about 30 seconds.
* Add in the cinnamon and mix until well combined.

Step 4: Serve

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

This Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle is not only easy to make but also bursting with flavor—a true crowd-pleaser!

How to Serve Grilled Pinapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle

Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re looking for a light dessert or a refreshing side dish, this recipe is versatile and easy to serve.

As a Standalone Dessert

• Serve warm and enjoy the sweet, caramelized flavor of the grilled pineapple topped with the cinnamon honey drizzle.

With Vanilla Ice Cream

• Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast of warm and cold, enhancing the flavors of both ingredients.

In Fruit Salads

• Chop the grilled pineapple into smaller pieces and mix it with other fresh fruits for a colorful and tasty fruit salad.

On Pancakes or Waffles

• Use the grilled pineapple as a topping on pancakes or waffles for a tropical twist at breakfast or brunch.

Alongside Grilled Meats

• Serve as a side dish to grilled chicken or turkey. The sweetness of the pineapple complements savory flavors perfectly.

In Tacos

• Add pieces of grilled pineapple in tacos with chicken or beef for an interesting flavor combination that brightens up your meal.

How to Perfect Grilled Pinapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle

To achieve the best results when preparing Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle, consider these helpful tips:

• Choose ripe pineapples: Look for pineapples that are slightly soft to touch and have a sweet aroma at the base. This ensures maximum sweetness when grilled.

• Preheat your grill: Ensure your grill is preheated to medium heat. This allows for even cooking and beautiful grill marks on the pineapple.

• Use non-stick spray liberally: Prevent sticking by applying a generous amount of non-stick spray before placing the pineapple on the grill.

• Monitor cooking time: Grill each side for about three minutes. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking, which can lead to mushy texture.

• Experiment with spices: Try adding nutmeg or ginger to your honey mixture for an extra layer of flavor that complements the cinnamon.

• Serve immediately: For the best taste and texture, serve the grilled pineapple right off the grill while it’s still warm.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Pinapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle

Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle pairs well with various side dishes that complement its sweet and smoky flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Coconut Rice
   Fluffy coconut rice provides a creamy base that balances out the sweetness of the pineapple.

2. Quinoa Salad
   A light quinoa salad mixed with fresh herbs offers a nutritious option that enhances your meal’s freshness.

3. Grilled Vegetables
   Seasonal vegetables lightly seasoned and grilled add color and crunch, making for a beautiful plate alongside your pineapple.

4. Roasted Sweet Potatoes
   The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes pairs beautifully, echoing the flavors found in your dessert.

5. Spicy Black Beans
   A serving of spicy black beans adds protein while offering contrasting flavors against the sweet notes of grilled pineapple.

6. Chickpea Salad
   A chickpea salad tossed with lemon juice and herbs provides both protein and brightness, complementing your dish perfectly.

7. Corn on the Cob
   Charred corn on the cob brings out its natural sweetness, making it another excellent pairing choice.

8. Cucumber Salad
   A refreshing cucumber salad dressed in vinegar helps cut through sweetness while being light and crisp on the palate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Grilling pineapple can be simple and rewarding, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Bold Preparation: Not preparing the grill properly can lead to sticking. Always preheat your grill and use non-stick spray before placing the pineapple slices.
• Bold Slicing Thickness: Cutting the pineapple too thin may cause it to fall apart on the grill. Aim for ¾ inch thick spears for optimal grilling.
• Bold Honey Heating: Microwaving honey for too long can make it too runny. Heat only for about 30 seconds to achieve a perfect drizzle consistency.
• Bold Timing Troubles: Overcooking pineapple can result in mushy texture. Grill each side for about three minutes to maintain firmness and flavor.
• Bold Skipping Cinnamon: Forgetting cinnamon means missing out on that warm flavor boost. Mix it well with honey to enhance the dish’s taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Grilled Pinapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle

• Place cooled grilled pineapple in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Grilled Pinapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 5-7 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 30 seconds, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat for approximately 2-3 minutes, turning occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

How do I choose the best pineapple?

Select a pineapple that is firm and smells sweet at the base. The color should be vibrant, indicating ripeness.

Can I use other fruits instead of pineapple?

Absolutely! Peaches, mangoes, or pears also work wonderfully on the grill with a similar honey drizzle.

Is Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle healthy?

Yes! This recipe offers a light dessert option that is lower in calories and packed with natural sweetness from fruits and honey.

How do I store leftover grilled pineapple?

Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze for longer storage.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Substitute honey with agave syrup or maple syrup for a vegan-friendly option without compromising flavor.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle is a delightful treat that works perfectly as a side dish or light dessert. Its smoky sweetness combined with warm cinnamon makes it irresistible! Feel free to customize it by adding nuts or other spices according to your taste preferences.