Grilled pineapple? Yes, you read that right! This simple yet surprisingly delicious treat is a summer staple and guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Grilling pineapple caramelizes its natural sugars, creating a symphony of sweet, smoky, and tangy flavors that will have your taste buds singing. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or a curious beginner, this guide will equip you with everything you need to know to make the perfect grilled pineapple.

I still remember the first time I tried grilled pineapple. I was at a barbecue with friends, skeptical that such a simple dish could be so flavorful. One bite, and I was hooked! The smoky sweetness, the juicy tenderness, the perfect balance of flavors – it was a revelation.

Table of Contents

Gathering Your Ingredients and Tools

Before we fire up the grill, let’s gather everything we need:

Ingredients:

Pineapple: One ripe pineapple. You can tell it’s ripe if it smells sweet and the leaves pull out easily.
Oil: 2 tablespoons of neutral oil like canola or grapeseed.
Sweetener (optional): 2 tablespoons of honey, maple syrup, or brown sugar for extra caramelization.
Spices (optional): A pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or chili powder can add an extra layer of flavor.

Tools:

Grill: Gas or charcoal, your choice!
Grill brush: For cleaning the grill grates.
Sharp knife: For prepping the pineapple.
Cutting board: A sturdy surface for cutting.
Basting brush: For applying oil and sweetener (optional).
Tongs: For flipping the pineapple on the grill.

Grilled Pineapple Slices

Step-by-Step Guide to Grilling Pineapple

Ready to transform ordinary pineapple into a smoky, caramelized masterpiece? Let’s get grilling!

Prepare the Pineapple: Slice off the top and bottom of the pineapple. Stand it upright and carefully cut away the spiky skin. Cut the pineapple into rings or spears, about ¾ inch thick. If you’re making rings, remove the core with a small knife or cookie cutter.
Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium heat. This is roughly 350-450°F. You should be able to hold your hand a few inches above the grates for about 4-5 seconds before it gets too hot.
Oil and Season: Drizzle the pineapple with oil and your sweetener of choice (if using). Sprinkle with your favorite spices, if desired.
Grill the Pineapple: Place the pineapple pieces on the hot grill grates. Grill for 3-5 minutes per side, or until grill marks appear and the pineapple is heated through and slightly softened.
Check for Doneness: The pineapple is ready when it’s tender enough to be easily pierced with a fork and has those beautiful grill marks.

Pineapple Grilling on a Barbecue

Tips and Tricks for Grilled Pineapple Perfection

Ripe Pineapple is Key: Choose a pineapple that’s fragrant and slightly soft to the touch. This ensures optimal sweetness and juiciness.
Don’t Overcrowd the Grill: Leave space between the pineapple pieces to allow for even cooking.
Watch for Flare-Ups: Pineapple’s natural sugars can cause flare-ups on the grill. Keep a close eye and adjust the heat if necessary.
Get Creative with Marinades: Experiment with different flavors! Try a honey-soy marinade, a spicy chipotle rub, or a sprinkle of cinnamon and brown sugar.

Serving Your Grilled Pineapple

Grilled pineapple is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in countless ways:

As is: Let the smoky, caramelized flavors shine! Enjoy it as a simple and satisfying dessert or snack.
On skewers: Thread grilled pineapple chunks onto skewers with other grilled fruits like peaches or mangoes for a colorful and refreshing kebab. This pairs perfectly with our coconut curry dressing.
With ice cream: The warm, caramelized pineapple is heavenly served over a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
In salsas and chutneys: Dice grilled pineapple and add it to salsas and chutneys for a sweet and smoky twist. Check out our Sambal Nanas recipe for a spicy and tangy Indonesian pineapple sambal that complements grilled dishes beautifully.
As a topping: Grilled pineapple is a fantastic topping for grilled chicken or fish. The sweetness of the pineapple balances savory flavors beautifully, especially when seasoned with a touch of Muối Tiêu Chanh, a Vietnamese salt, pepper, and lime seasoning.

Grilled Pineapple Platter with Dipping Sauce

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I grill canned pineapple rings?

While you can grill canned pineapple, fresh pineapple is always recommended for optimal flavor and texture. Canned pineapple tends to be much sweeter and softer, which can make it tricky to grill without falling apart.

How do I prevent the pineapple from sticking to the grill?

Make sure your grill grates are clean and well-oiled before adding the pineapple. Using a high-quality oil with a high smoke point, like canola or grapeseed oil, can also help prevent sticking.

Grilling Up Memories, One Pineapple at a Time

Grilled pineapple isn’t just a dish; it’s an experience! It’s about gathering with loved ones, sharing laughter and stories around the warm glow of the grill, and savoring the simple pleasures of good food and good company. So fire up that grill, embrace the smoky sweetness, and create some delicious memories of your own.

And hey, if you try this recipe, we’d love to hear about it! Share your grilling triumphs (and even your grilling mishaps – we’ve all been there!) in the comments below. Happy grilling!

Article by Family Cuisine

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