Grilled Pinapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle

This Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle is a delightful treat that is perfect for any occasion, whether as a side dish or a light dessert. The process of grilling the pineapple enhances its natural sweetness while the cinnamon honey drizzle adds an irresistible touch. This recipe is simple yet impressive, making it an ideal choice for summer gatherings or family dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few ingredients and minimal preparation time, this recipe is beginner-friendly.
• Delicious Flavor Combination: The smoky, grilled flavor pairs beautifully with the sweet and spicy honey drizzle.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a side dish at barbecues or as a refreshing dessert after dinner.
• Healthy Option: Pineapple is rich in vitamins and minerals, making this dish both tasty and nutritious.
• Perfect for Summer: This recipe embodies the essence of summer eating with its fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smoother, gather the essential tools before you start. Having everything on hand will allow you to focus on creating this delicious dish.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: A good grill gives that distinct charred flavor to the pineapple, enhancing its natural sweetness.
• Non-stick spray: This is essential to prevent sticking and ensure easy flipping of the pineapple slices while grilling.
• Mixing bowl: Use this to combine the honey and cinnamon seamlessly, allowing for an even distribution when drizzling.

Ingredients

For the Drizzle

• 1/2 cup honey
• 1 tsp cinnamon

For the Pineapple

• 1 pineapple (sliced into spears)

How to Make Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle

Step 1: Grill the Pineapple

1. Preheat your grill over medium heat.
2. Spray the grill grates with non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
3. Place the pineapple slices on the grill. Cook for about three minutes on each side or until you see grill marks.

Step 2: Prepare the Cinnamon Honey Drizzle

1. In a mixing bowl, microwave the honey for about 30 seconds until softened.
2. Add the cinnamon to the honey and mix well until fully combined.

Step 3: Serve

1. Once grilled, remove the pineapple from the grill.
2. Drizzle the cinnamon honey mixture generously over each slice.
3. Serve warm and enjoy!

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 6 minutes
Total Time: 16 minutes
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Nutrition Facts: Calories: 130 kcal, Carbs: 35 g, Protein: 1 g, Sodium: 2 mg, Sugar: 28 g

How to Serve Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle

Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want it as a side or dessert, these serving suggestions will enhance your experience.

As a Standalone Dessert

• Serve warm: Enjoy the grilled pineapple warm for a comforting dessert.
• Top with whipped cream: Add a dollop of whipped cream for a creamy contrast.

With Ice Cream

• Vanilla ice cream: Pair the grilled pineapple with vanilla ice cream to balance the sweetness.
• Coconut sorbet: For a tropical twist, try coconut sorbet as an accompaniment.

In Fruit Salads

• Mixed fruit salad: Chop the grilled pineapple and mix it with other fresh fruits for added flavor.
• Tropical smoothie bowl: Blend the pineapple into a smoothie bowl topped with granola and nuts.

As a Breakfast Topping

• On pancakes: Use grilled pineapple as a topping for pancakes or waffles for a sweet breakfast treat.
• In yogurt parfaits: Layer it in yogurt parfaits with granola for added texture and flavor.

How to Perfect Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle

Making the perfect grilled pineapple requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out delicious every time.

• Choose ripe pineapple: Look for pineapples that are fragrant and slightly soft at the base for optimal sweetness.
• Preheat your grill: Ensure your grill is preheated to medium heat to achieve those beautiful grill marks quickly.
• Monitor cooking time: Grill each slice for about three minutes on each side to avoid overcooking and maintain juiciness.
• Experiment with spices: Try adding nutmeg or allspice along with cinnamon for an extra flavor dimension.
• Use fresh honey: Opt for high-quality honey for the best taste; local varieties often have unique flavors.
• Serve immediately: Grilled pineapple tastes best when served right off the grill while it’s still warm.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle

Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle pairs beautifully with various side dishes. Here are some fantastic options to consider:

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy chicken skewers complement the sweetness of grilled pineapple, making them an excellent pairing.
2. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad mixed with herbs and citrus adds a light touch alongside the sweet flavors of pineapple.
3. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw provides texture contrast and balances the sweetness of the grilled dish.
4. Rice Pilaf: Flavored rice pilaf serves as a hearty side that perfectly complements the sweet notes of the pineapple.
5. Vegetable Medley: A simple sautéed vegetable medley brings color and nutrients, enhancing your meal’s overall appeal.
6. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob adds additional sweetness while being easy to prepare alongside grilling sessions.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Grilling pineapple can be simple, but some common mistakes might ruin your dish. Here are a few pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overcooking the pineapple: Grilling for too long can lead to mushy fruit. Aim for about three minutes per side for the perfect texture.
• Using cold honey: Cold honey doesn’t mix well with cinnamon. Always soften it in the microwave for about 30 seconds before combining.
• Skipping the grill spray: Not using non-stick spray can cause the pineapple to stick and tear. Make sure to spray your grill before adding the fruit.
• Not slicing evenly: Uneven pineapple spears can cook at different rates. Slice them uniformly for even grilling and consistent flavor.
• Ignoring presentation: A beautiful drizzle enhances appeal. Be generous with the honey-cinnamon mixture for a visually stunning finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store grilled pineapple in an airtight container.
• It stays fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Grilled Pinapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle

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

Reheating Grilled Pinapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat on a baking sheet for about 5-10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short bursts of 15-20 seconds until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a lightly greased skillet over medium heat for just a few minutes until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use other fruits instead of pineapple?

Yes! You can try peaches or mangoes, which also grill beautifully and pair well with cinnamon.

What is the best way to slice pineapple?

Cut off both ends, stand it upright, and slice downward to remove the skin. Then cut into spears or rings as desired.

How do I make this recipe vegan?

To make it vegan, ensure that you use plant-based honey alternatives like agave syrup instead of traditional honey.

How can I customize the drizzle?

Feel free to add vanilla extract or nutmeg to the honey-cinnamon mixture for extra flavor!

Final Thoughts

This Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle is not only a delightful side dish but also a light dessert that everyone will love! With its sweet and smoky flavors, it’s perfect for summer gatherings. You can easily customize it by adding different spices or even toppings like nuts or coconut flakes. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a delicious twist on classic grilled fruit!