Grilling sliced pineapple is a delicious and simple way to elevate this tropical fruit to a whole new level. Whether you're looking for a sweet and healthy dessert or a flavorful side dish for your BBQ, grilled pineapple is sure to be a hit. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to grill sliced pineapple to perfection.
Choosing the Perfect Pineapple
Before you start grilling, it's important to select a ripe and juicy pineapple. Look for a pineapple with a golden-yellow color and a sweet aroma at the stem end. The leaves should be green and fresh-looking. When you gently squeeze the pineapple, it should give slightly without feeling too soft.
Preparing the Pineapple
Once you've chosen the perfect pineapple, it's time to prepare it for grilling. Here's how to do it:
- Begin by slicing off the top and bottom of the pineapple.
- Stand the pineapple upright and carefully slice off the skin, making sure to remove any "eyes" that may be left behind.
- Lay the pineapple on its side and cut it into 1/2 inch thick slices. Make sure to remove the core from each slice.
Marinating the Pineapple
While pineapple is delicious on its own, marinating it before grilling can add an extra layer of flavor. You can marinate the pineapple slices in a mixture of honey, lime juice, and a pinch of cinnamon for about 30 minutes. This will enhance the natural sweetness of the fruit and add a hint of tanginess.
Grilling the Pineapple
Now it's time to fire up the grill and cook the pineapple slices to caramelized perfection. Follow these steps for grilling:
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Place the pineapple slices directly on the grill grates and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until grill marks appear and the pineapple caramelizes.
- Be sure to keep a close eye on the pineapple as it grills, as the natural sugars can cause it to burn quickly.
Serving the Grilled Pineapple
Once the pineapple slices are beautifully grilled, it's time to serve them up and enjoy! Here are a few serving suggestions:
- Sprinkle the grilled pineapple with a touch of sea salt for a sweet and salty flavor combination.
- Serve the grilled pineapple alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a simple and delightful dessert.
- Chop the grilled pineapple into smaller pieces and add it to a fresh fruit salad for a burst of tropical flavor.
Conclusion
Grilling sliced pineapple is a fantastic way to bring out the natural sweetness and flavor of this tropical fruit. With just a few simple steps, you can create a versatile and delicious dish that's perfect for any summer gathering or BBQ. So, fire up the grill and give grilled pineapple a try – you won't be disappointed!
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