Imagine biting into a slice of grilled pineapple that’s caramelized to perfection with a sweet and spicy glaze. This dish is a delightful fusion of flavors that brings a tropical twist to your summer gatherings. It’s not just a dessert; it’s a refreshing side or a unique topping for burgers and salads.
Grilling pineapple amplifies its natural sweetness, while the hint of spice adds an exciting kick. This recipe is incredibly simple, requiring just a few ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. Perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a sweet treat on your own!
The Allure of Grilled Pineapple
Grilled pineapple presents a delightful treat that captivates the senses with its sweet aroma and vibrant colors. The process of grilling transforms fresh pineapple into a masterpiece, where each ring develops stunning caramelized edges that glisten in the sun.
This tropical fruit not only shines in appearance but also tantalizes the taste buds with its unique flavor combination. The natural sweetness of pineapple is elevated when grilled, creating an irresistible dish perfect for any summer gathering.
Creating the Sweet and Spicy Glaze
The magic truly happens with the sweet and spicy glaze that coats each pineapple ring. A blend of brown sugar and chili powder works wonders, providing a flavor profile that is both enjoyable and intriguing.
This glaze strikes a balance between sweetness and a gentle kick of heat, ensuring that each bite offers a delightful surprise. The addition of lime juice brightens the overall taste, enhancing the tropical theme while the pinch of salt rounds out the flavors.
Grilling Technique for Perfect Pineapple Rings
When it comes to grilling, preheating the grill is key. Achieving the right temperature allows the pineapple to sear properly, creating those sought-after grill marks that add texture and depth to the dish.
Each pineapple ring should be brushed generously with the glaze before being placed on the grill. Watching them cook is a treat in itself, as the heat transforms the fruit, caramelizing the sugar while adding a delightful smoky flavor.
A Colorful Presentation
Presentation is vital in making grilled pineapple truly shine. Once removed from the grill, these golden rings are best served warm and can be garnished with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and freshness.
Plating the grilled pineapple against a vibrant summer backdrop enhances its allure. The contrast of the warm, charred fruit with the cool mint creates an eye-catching dish that’s perfect for summer gatherings or an everyday treat.
Versatility Beyond Dessert
While grilled pineapple is often thought of as a dessert, its versatility makes it suitable for various dishes. It can serve as a unique side to savory meals, a topping for burgers, or even a delightful addition to salads.
This tropical fruit brings a refreshing quality that pairs wonderfully with meats and greens, making it an excellent choice for any outdoor BBQ or picnic. Its sweet and spicy profile can complement a range of flavors, adding excitement to your dining experience.
Nutrition and Serving Suggestions
With just 120 calories per serving, grilled pineapple offers a guilt-free indulgence. It contains minimal fat while providing a good source of carbohydrates, making it a wholesome option for any meal.
To serve, consider pairing it with grilled meats or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience. Whether enjoyed as a standalone treat or as part of a meal, grilled pineapple rings promise to elevate any culinary occasion.
Grilled Pineapple with Sweet and Spicy Glaze
This sweet and spicy grilled pineapple features juicy, caramelized slices infused with a blend of brown sugar and chili powder, creating a harmonious balance between sweetness and warmth. The charred edges add a hint of smokiness that elevates the overall taste, making it a must-try dish for any barbecue.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 18 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 ripe pineapple, peeled and sliced into rings
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: chopped fresh mint for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Pineapple: Peel the pineapple, remove the core, and slice it into thick rings.
- Make the Glaze: In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, chili powder, cinnamon, lime juice, and salt until well combined.
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Coat the Pineapple: Brush both sides of the pineapple rings with the glaze mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Grill the Pineapple: Place the pineapple rings on the grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until grill marks appear and the fruit is heated through.
- Serve: Remove from the grill and garnish with fresh mint if desired. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4
- Calories: 120kcal
- Fat: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
