Grilling is the perfect way to bring out the natural sweetness and caramelization in pineapple, transforming it into a deliciously smoky and tangy treat. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or looking to add a tropical flair to your dinner, grilling pineapple is a simple yet flavorful way to elevate your meals. From savory to sweet, here are 10 mouthwatering ways to include pineapple on the grill that will have everyone asking for seconds.
1️⃣ Grilled Pineapple Rings 🍍
- Why it’s great: Grilled pineapple rings are a classic and super simple way to enjoy the tropical fruit on the grill. The heat caramelizes the sugars, giving the pineapple a slightly charred flavor that’s perfectly balanced by its natural sweetness.
- How to make it: Slice fresh pineapple into thick rings, then brush with a little honey or brown sugar to enhance the caramelization. Grill over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until you see nice grill marks.
- Why it works: This easy recipe makes a perfect side dish or topping for burgers, grilled chicken, or even a light dessert when paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
2️⃣ Pineapple Skewers with Coconut and Lime 🍍🥥🍋
- Why it’s great: Pineapple skewers are a fun and flavorful way to serve grilled pineapple at any gathering. Adding coconut and lime enhances the tropical experience, making this dish even more refreshing and delicious.
- How to make it: Cube fresh pineapple and thread it onto skewers. Alternate with chunks of coconut (dried or fresh) and a squeeze of fresh lime juice. Grill over medium-high heat for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even grilling.
- Why it works: The combination of pineapple’s sweetness, the creamy richness of coconut, and the bright acidity of lime creates a well-balanced flavor profile that is perfect for summer cookouts.
3️⃣ Grilled Pineapple Salsa 🍍🌶️
- Why it’s great: A tangy and spicy pineapple salsa is the perfect accompaniment to grilled meats, seafood, or even tacos. The grilling process adds a smoky depth to the pineapple, which pairs beautifully with fresh cilantro, onions, and a little kick from jalapeños.
- How to make it: Grill pineapple slices until charred, then chop them into small pieces. Combine with diced red onion, chopped cilantro, jalapeños, a squeeze of lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Mix everything together and let sit for a few minutes to blend the flavors.
- Why it works: This vibrant salsa adds a burst of flavor to your dishes, offering the perfect balance of smoky, sweet, and spicy.
4️⃣ Grilled Pineapple with Brown Sugar and Cinnamon 🍍🍯
- Why it’s great: This sweet treat takes grilled pineapple to the next level by adding the rich flavors of brown sugar and cinnamon, making it a perfect dessert or side dish. The sugar creates a delicious caramelized crust while the cinnamon adds warmth and spice.
- How to make it: Slice pineapple into rings or wedges, then sprinkle with a mixture of brown sugar and cinnamon. Grill for 2-3 minutes on each side, until the sugar melts and the pineapple is golden and tender.
- Why it works: The combination of sugar and spice enhances the natural sweetness of the pineapple, creating a dessert-like experience that pairs well with ice cream or whipped cream.
5️⃣ Grilled Pineapple and Chicken Skewers 🍍🍗
- Why it’s great: The pairing of savory grilled chicken with sweet grilled pineapple is a flavor match made in heaven. These skewers are easy to assemble, making them perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue.
- How to make it: Cube chicken breasts and pineapple into bite-sized pieces. Marinate the chicken in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, lime juice, and a little honey. Thread the chicken and pineapple onto skewers, alternating between the two. Grill over medium-high heat for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally.
- Why it works: The pineapple’s sweetness complements the savory chicken, while the grill adds a smoky touch to both. The marinade infuses the chicken with flavor, making these skewers a standout dish.
6️⃣ Grilled Pineapple with Teriyaki Glaze 🍍🍶
- Why it’s great: Pineapple and teriyaki are a fantastic combo, with the smoky sweetness of the grilled pineapple perfectly matching the salty, umami flavor of the teriyaki glaze. This dish is ideal as a side for grilled meats or a quick snack on its own.
- How to make it: Grill pineapple rings until charred, then brush with a teriyaki glaze during the last minute of grilling. Let the glaze caramelize slightly before serving.
- Why it works: The teriyaki sauce adds a savory contrast to the sweetness of the pineapple, and grilling brings out the best in both, creating a rich, layered flavor profile.
7️⃣ Grilled Pineapple with Chili and Lime 🌶️🍍🍋
- Why it’s great: This spicy, tangy, and sweet combination is a fantastic way to bring an extra kick to your grilled pineapple. The chili adds heat, while the lime provides a refreshing zest, balancing out the sweetness of the fruit.
- How to make it: Grill pineapple wedges until caramelized, then sprinkle with chili powder, a dash of cayenne (if you like it hot), and freshly squeezed lime juice. For extra flavor, add a pinch of salt.
- Why it works: The contrast of sweet, salty, spicy, and tangy makes this dish a bold and flavorful snack or side dish, perfect for summer cookouts or as a topping for tacos and grilled meats.
8️⃣ Grilled Pineapple Tacos 🌮🍍
- Why it’s great: Combining grilled pineapple with savory tacos is a great way to elevate your taco night. The smoky pineapple adds a burst of sweetness that pairs perfectly with grilled meats, beans, or even fish.
- How to make it: Grill pineapple slices until caramelized, then chop into small pieces. Assemble your tacos with grilled meats or shrimp, and top with pineapple, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime.
- Why it works: The combination of sweet pineapple and savory fillings creates a deliciously balanced flavor profile that will elevate any taco recipe.
9️⃣ Grilled Pineapple with Rum Sauce 🍍🍹
- Why it’s great: This tropical-inspired dessert combines the sweetness of grilled pineapple with a rich rum sauce, perfect for a summer night or any occasion. The sauce adds a depth of flavor, complementing the pineapple’s natural sweetness.
- How to make it: Grill pineapple until golden, then make a rum sauce by simmering rum, brown sugar, butter, and a touch of vanilla until it thickens. Drizzle the sauce over the grilled pineapple and serve warm.
- Why it works: The warm, caramelized pineapple paired with the rich rum sauce makes for an indulgent dessert that’s perfect when served with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
🔟 Grilled Pineapple Smoothie 🍍🥤
- Why it’s great: A grilled pineapple smoothie is a refreshing and unique way to enjoy pineapple. The grilling adds a smoky twist, making the smoothie more complex and flavorful.
- How to make it: Grill pineapple chunks until caramelized, then blend with coconut milk, Greek yogurt, and a touch of honey. Add ice for a colder, thicker texture.
- Why it works: The smoky, sweet pineapple, combined with creamy coconut milk and yogurt, creates a refreshing smoothie that’s perfect as a snack or light breakfast.
Grilling pineapple is a simple way to add a burst of flavor to your meals, whether you’re making a sweet dessert, a savory side dish, or a tropical-inspired snack. With these 10 tasty ideas, you can enjoy pineapple in a whole new way, bringing exciting flavors to your next barbecue or family meal. Happy grilling!
