Grilled Pinapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle

This Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle is a delightful treat that makes for a fantastic side dish or light dessert. The caramelized sweetness from the grill adds an exciting twist, while the cinnamon honey drizzle elevates it to pure bliss. Perfect for summer barbecues, family gatherings, or just a quick snack, this recipe combines simplicity with amazing flavor that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have this delicious dish ready in under 20 minutes.
• Versatile Treat: It serves as both a side dish and a light dessert, making it suitable for any occasion.
• Healthy Indulgence: Packed with natural sweetness from pineapple and honey, it’s a guilt-free way to satisfy your sweet tooth.
• Impressive Presentation: The beautiful grill marks and golden color make it visually appealing for guests.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of grilled pineapple with cinnamon honey creates a mouthwatering flavor that’s hard to resist.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools. Having everything ready ensures a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Non-stick spray
• Mixing bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Essential for achieving those perfect char marks and caramelization on the pineapple.
• Non-stick spray: Prevents the pineapple from sticking to the grill, making flipping easier and cleanup simpler.
• Mixing bowl: A must-have for combining your honey and cinnamon without any mess.

Ingredients

To make this delightful Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle, you’ll need:

For the Drizzle

• 1/2 cup honey
• 1 tsp cinnamon

For the Pineapple

• 1 pineapple (sliced into spears)

How to Make Grilled Pinapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle

Step 1: Prepare the Grill

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

Step 2: Grill the Pineapple

Place the pineapple slices on the hot grill. Cook each side for about three minutes until you see nice grill marks.

Step 3: Make the Cinnamon Honey Drizzle

While your pineapple is grilling, take your mixing bowl and combine the honey (softened in the microwave for about 30 seconds) and cinnamon. Stir until well mixed.

Step 4: Serve Your Dish

Once grilled, remove the pineapple from the grill and drizzle generously with your cinnamon honey mixture. Serve warm and enjoy!

How to Serve Grilled Pinapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle

Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle is a delightful treat that can brighten up any meal. Its sweet and tangy flavors make it versatile for serving alongside various dishes or as a stand-alone dessert.

As a Side Dish

• Pair with grilled meats: The sweetness of the pineapple complements BBQ chicken or steak perfectly.
• Serve with salads: Add diced grilled pineapple to green salads for a refreshing twist.

As a Dessert

• Top with ice cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream enhances the warm grilled pineapple beautifully.
• Use in fruit salads: Mix the grilled pineapple with other fruits for a colorful and tasty dessert.

Breakfast Option

• Include in yogurt parfaits: Layer grilled pineapple with granola and yogurt for a nutritious breakfast.
• Serve on pancakes: Use as a topping for pancakes or waffles along with maple syrup.

How to Perfect Grilled Pinapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle

To achieve the perfect Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle, follow these helpful tips to enhance your grilling experience.

• Choose ripe pineapples: Look for pineapples that are slightly soft to the touch and have a sweet aroma.
• Preheat the grill: Ensure your grill is hot before placing the pineapple slices on it for optimal caramelization.
• Use fresh cinnamon: Freshly ground cinnamon will provide a more intense flavor than pre-packaged varieties.
• Adjust sweetness: Feel free to modify the amount of honey used based on your sweetness preference.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Pinapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle

Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle pairs well with many side dishes, enhancing your meal’s overall flavor profile. Here are some great options:

1. Coleslaw – A crunchy and creamy side that balances the sweetness of the pineapple.
2. Quinoa Salad – A light salad packed with nutrients that complements the grilled flavors.
3. Grilled Vegetables – Seasonal veggies charred on the grill provide a savory contrast.
4. Rice Pilaf – Fluffy rice mixed with herbs adds texture and heartiness to your meal.
5. Garlic Bread – The buttery and garlicky notes pair well with sweet and tangy dishes.
6. Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn brings out the tropical notes in grilled pineapple perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Grilling pineapple can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes that can take away from your dish. Here are some tips to ensure your Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle turns out perfect every time.

• Skipping the prep: Failing to prepare your grill can lead to sticking. Always preheat and oil your grill to prevent this.
• Not using ripe pineapple: An unripe pineapple will taste sour. Choose a pineapple that is fragrant and slightly soft for the best flavor.
• Overcooking the pineapple: Cooking too long can make the pineapple mushy. Grill just until caramelized, around three minutes per side.
• Ignoring the drizzle timing: Adding the cinnamon honey drizzle too early can cause it to burn. Drizzle right before serving for the best taste.
• Serving at the wrong temperature: Grilled pineapple is best served warm. Let it cool slightly before serving, but don’t serve it cold.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store grilled pineapple in an airtight container.
• It will keep well for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Grilled Pinapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle

• Wrap each piece in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months, but may lose some texture upon thawing.

Reheating Grilled Pinapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place on a baking sheet and heat for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 30 seconds or until warmed through. Watch closely to avoid cooking further.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat for about 2-3 minutes, flipping occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use fresh or canned pineapple?

You should use fresh pineapple for grilling as it has the best texture and flavor. Canned pineapple is softer and may not hold up well on the grill.

What is the best way to cut a pineapple?

To cut a pineapple, slice off the top and bottom, then stand it upright and slice downwards along the sides to remove the skin. Cut into spears or rings as desired.

How do I know when my grilled pineapple is done?

Grilled pineapple is done when it has nice grill marks and is slightly caramelized but still holds its shape. This usually takes about three minutes on each side.

Can I add other spices to my drizzle?

Yes! You can experiment with different spices like nutmeg or ginger for added flavor in your cinnamon honey drizzle.

Final Thoughts

This Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Honey Drizzle is not only a delightful side dish but also an excellent light dessert option. Its sweet and smoky flavors make it versatile enough for many occasions. Feel free to customize by adding other toppings like nuts or coconut for an extra twist!