Grilled Pinapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle

This Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle is a perfect side dish or light dessert! The sweet, caramelized flavor from grilling combined with the warm cinnamon honey drizzle makes this recipe a standout for any occasion, whether it’s a summer BBQ or a cozy family dinner. Enjoy the simplicity and taste of this delightful treat that will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 16 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of grilled pineapple and cinnamon honey creates a mouthwatering experience that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a side dish for grilled meats or as a light dessert on its own.
• Healthy Option: Low in calories yet high in flavor, this dish is great for those watching their diet.
• Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors of grilled pineapple will brighten up any plate.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle, having the right tools makes the process smoother. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Provides the necessary heat to caramelize the pineapple, enhancing its natural sweetness.
• Non-stick spray: Prevents the pineapple from sticking to the grill, ensuring easy flipping and removal.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining the honey and cinnamon, allowing for an even distribution 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: Preheat the Grill

Start by preheating your grill over medium heat. Make sure to spray the grill grates with non-stick spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Grill the Pineapple

Place the sliced pineapple spears on the grill:
1. Grill each side for about three minutes until they have nice grill marks.
2. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning.

Step 3: Prepare the Cinnamon Honey Drizzle

While the pineapple is grilling:
1. Microwave the honey for about 30 seconds until softened.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened honey with cinnamon, mixing well.

Step 4: Serve

Once the pineapple is grilled:
1. Drizzle it generously with the cinnamon honey mixture.
2. Serve immediately as a delicious side or light dessert. Enjoy!

How to Serve Grilled Pinapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle

Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle is a versatile dish that can elevate any meal. Its sweet and smoky flavor pairs well with various dishes, making it an excellent choice for both casual gatherings and special occasions.

As a Side Dish

• Serve alongside grilled meats like chicken or pork for a refreshing contrast.
• Pair with savory rice dishes to add a hint of sweetness.

In Salads

• Add diced grilled pineapple to green salads for a tropical twist.
• Mix into fruit salads for extra flavor and texture.

As a Dessert

• Top vanilla ice cream with the grilled pineapple for a delightful dessert.
• Use it as a filling for crepes or pancakes to impress your guests.

How to Perfect Grilled Pinapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle

To achieve the best results, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure your grilled pineapple is flavorful and perfectly cooked.

• Choose ripe pineapple: Select pineapples that are golden and fragrant for optimal sweetness.
• Preheat your grill: Ensure your grill is hot before adding the pineapple for perfect grill marks and caramelization.
• Use fresh cinnamon: Freshly ground cinnamon enhances flavor more than store-bought ground cinnamon.
• Adjust honey sweetness: Feel free to modify the amount of honey based on your taste preferences; less honey will result in a less sweet drizzle.
• Experiment with spices: Consider adding nutmeg or ginger to the drizzle for an extra flavor kick.
• Serve immediately: Enjoy the grilled pineapple right off the grill for the best taste and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Pinapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle

Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle complements many side dishes. Here are some fantastic options to serve alongside it.

1. Coleslaw: A crunchy, tangy slaw balances the sweetness of the pineapple beautifully.
2. Quinoa Salad: Light and nutritious, quinoa salad adds protein and fiber to your meal.
3. Baked Beans: The rich flavors of baked beans pair well with the sweetness of grilled pineapple.
4. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn enhances summer grilling vibes and pairs nicely with tropical flavors.
5. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread offers a savory counterpart to sweet grilled pineapple.
6. Couscous Salad: Fluffy couscous mixed with veggies provides a light, flavorful side that complements this dish well.
7. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add depth and color, enhancing presentation and taste.
8. Rice Pilaf: A fragrant rice pilaf can absorb the sweet sauce while providing a hearty base for your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Grilling pineapple can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture of your dish. Here are some tips to ensure you get it right.

• Boldly grilling too long: Overcooking pineapple can lead to mushiness. Grill for about three minutes on each side for the best texture.
• Skipping the marinade: Not mixing honey and cinnamon can result in bland pineapple. Always drizzle this mixture for added flavor.
• Using cold pineapple: Cold slices can stick to the grill and cook unevenly. Let your pineapple sit at room temperature before grilling.
• Not preparing the grill properly: A dirty or ungreased grill may cause sticking. Ensure it’s clean and use non-stick spray before grilling.
• Ignoring freshness: Using overripe or under ripe pineapple affects sweetness. Choose a firm, golden pineapple for optimal taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Grilled Pinapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle

• Wrap grilled pineapple in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Grilled Pinapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 30 seconds intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat for about 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

What is Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle?

Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle is a sweet treat made by grilling fresh pineapple slices and drizzling them with a mix of honey and cinnamon.

How do I choose the best pineapple?

Look for pineapples that are firm, have a sweet smell, and show signs of ripeness like slight softness at the base.

Can I make Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the grilled pineapple ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days.

What dishes pair well with Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle?

This dish pairs beautifully as a side with grilled meats or as a topping on desserts like ice cream or yogurt.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle is not only delicious but also versatile. You can enjoy it as a refreshing side dish or an elegant dessert. Feel free to customize it by adding other spices or toppings based on your taste preferences!