Grilled Pinapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle

This Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle is a delightful treat that perfectly balances sweetness and warmth. It’s an ideal side dish for summer barbecues or a light dessert after dinner. The caramelized edges of the grilled pineapple paired with the rich honey and cinnamon drizzle make for an unforgettable flavor experience that’s sure to impress guests at any gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just three ingredients, this recipe comes together in under 20 minutes.
• Delicious Flavor: Grilling enhances the natural sweetness of the pineapple, while the cinnamon honey drizzle adds a warm, cozy touch.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a side dish, dessert, or even atop yogurt or ice cream for a delicious twist.
• Healthy Treat: Pineapple is low in calories and packed with vitamins, making this a guilt-free indulgence.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a summer barbecue or a cozy family dinner, this dish fits right in.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment will ensure your cooking process is smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Grill brush
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: The star of this recipe! It imparts that delicious smoky flavor to the pineapple.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining your honey and cinnamon effortlessly.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements ensure the perfect balance of flavors.

Ingredients

For the Grilled Pineapple

• 1/2 cup honey
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1 pineapple (sliced into spears)

How to Make Grilled Pinapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle

Step 1: Prepare the Grill

Start by preheating your grill on medium heat. Spray it lightly with non-stick spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Grill the Pineapple

Place the pineapple slices directly on the grill.
Grill each side for about three minutes until you see nice grill marks and the pineapple softens slightly.

Step 3: Mix Honey and Cinnamon

While the pineapple is grilling, take your mixing bowl.
1. Soften honey in the microwave for about 30 seconds.
2. Add in one teaspoon of cinnamon and stir until well combined.

Step 4: Drizzle and Serve

Once grilled to perfection, remove the pineapple from heat.
Drizzle your warm honey-cinnamon mixture over the grilled pineapple spears before serving. Enjoy!

How to Serve Grilled Pinapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle

Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle can be enjoyed in various ways, making it a versatile addition to your meals. Whether you serve it as a side dish or a light dessert, this recipe is sure to impress your guests and family alike.

As a Side Dish

• With Savory Meats: This grilled pineapple pairs perfectly with grilled chicken or pork, adding a sweet contrast to savory flavors.
• In Tacos: Add slices of grilled pineapple to fish or chicken tacos for an extra crunch and sweetness.

As a Light Dessert

• With Ice Cream: Serve warm grilled pineapple over vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert that combines hot and cold.
• On Pancakes or Waffles: Top your breakfast pancakes or waffles with the cinnamon honey drizzle for an indulgent twist.

For Summer Gatherings

• On Skewers: Thread the grilled pineapple onto skewers with other fruits for a colorful fruit platter.
• As Part of a Fruit Salad: Mix the grilled pineapple into a fresh fruit salad for added flavor and texture.

How to Perfect Grilled Pinapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle

To elevate your Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle, consider these helpful tips that can enhance flavor and presentation.

• Boldly Choose Ripe Pineapple: A ripe pineapple will have sweeter and more flavorful flesh. Look for one that has a fruity aroma and gives slightly when pressed.
• Boldly Preheat the Grill: Ensure your grill is well-heated before adding the pineapple. This helps achieve those beautiful grill marks and caramelization.
• Boldly Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh honey and ground cinnamon will elevate the taste of your drizzle compared to processed alternatives.
• Boldly Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add nutmeg or ginger to the drizzle for an exciting twist on flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Pinapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle

Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle complements many dishes. Here are some delightful side dishes that pair well.

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Tender chicken marinated in herbs adds protein while balancing the sweetness of the pineapple.
2. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad packed with veggies provides a nutritious base alongside the sweet grilled pineapple.
3. Coleslaw: Crunchy coleslaw brings texture and tanginess that works well against the sweet notes of the dish.
4. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with herbs is a simple yet delicious side that rounds out your meal nicely.
5. Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn brushed with butter offers a smoky flavor that enhances the overall experience.
6. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad dressed in vinaigrette adds freshness and balances out sweetness from the pineapple.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Grilling pineapple may seem simple, but there are common pitfalls that can ruin your dish. Here are some mistakes to avoid.

• Skipping the soak – Not soaking your pineapple before grilling can lead to uneven cooking. A quick soak in honey can enhance sweetness and help with caramelization.
• Ignoring grill temperature – Grilling at too high or too low a temperature can burn or undercook the pineapple. Aim for medium heat for perfect grilling.
• Cutting uneven pieces – Cutting pineapple into uneven sizes leads to inconsistent cooking. Ensure all spears are similar in thickness for even grilling.
• Not prepping the grill – Failing to spray the grill with non-stick spray can cause sticking. Always prepare your grill to ensure easy flipping and removal.
• Rushing the sauce – Mixing the honey and cinnamon too hurriedly might not allow the flavors to meld properly. Take time to blend them well for a rich drizzle.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-5 days for best quality.

Freezing Grilled Pinapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle

• Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag.
• Best used within 1-2 months for optimal taste.

Reheating Grilled Pinapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle

• Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave – Place pineapple on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
• Stovetop – Heat in a skillet over medium heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

What is Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle?

Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle is a delicious dish where fresh pineapple is grilled and topped with a sweet honey-cinnamon sauce, ideal as a side or dessert.

Can I use other fruits for grilling?

Yes! Peaches, bananas, and mangoes also work wonderfully 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 yield slightly when pressed. The color should be vibrant yellow-golden.

Can I make this recipe vegan-friendly?

Absolutely! You can substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for an equally delightful drizzle.

Final Thoughts

This Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle is not only easy to prepare but also versatile enough to serve as either a light dessert or an exciting side dish. Feel free to customize it by adding other spices like nutmeg or serving it alongside ice cream for extra indulgence!