Sizzling Grilled Pineapple Slices: A Tropical Delight

Grilled Pineapple Slices

There's something magical about the combination of sweet, juicy pineapple with the smoky char from the grill. When you add a touch of cinnamon and a hint of coconut, you create a flavor explosion that's hard to resist. Grilled pineapple slices are a perfect summer treat, easy to make, and sure to be a hit at any gathering. Let's dive into the details of how to prepare this delightful dish.

Here's what you'll need to make these delicious grilled pineapple slices:

• 1 fresh pineapple - peeled, cored, and cut into rings
• ¼ cup canned coconut milk
• ½ cup cinnamon sugar

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Peeling and Coring the Pineapple: Start by peeling the pineapple. Use a sharp knife to cut off the top and bottom. Stand the pineapple upright and carefully slice off the skin, following the contour of the fruit. Once peeled, cut the pineapple into rings about ½ inch thick. Use a corer or a small knife to remove the tough core from each ring.

Making Cinnamon Sugar: If you don't have cinnamon sugar on hand, it's easy to make. Combine ½ cup of granulated sugar with 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon in a jar. Screw on the lid and shake well to mix. Adjust the amount of cinnamon to suit your taste.

Step 2: Prepare the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium heat, around 350°F (175°C). If using a charcoal grill, ensure the coals are evenly distributed and have a consistent heat. Lightly oil the grill grate to prevent the pineapple slices from sticking. You can use a brush or a piece of paper towel dipped in oil and held with tongs to coat the grate.

Step 3: Dip and Coat the Pineapple Slices

Set up two shallow dishes: one with the canned coconut milk and the other with the cinnamon sugar. Dip each pineapple ring into the coconut milk, ensuring it's well coated. Let any excess coconut milk drip off before moving the ring to the cinnamon sugar. Coat the pineapple ring evenly with the cinnamon sugar, turning it to cover both sides.

Step 4: Grill the Pineapple Slices

Place the coated pineapple rings on the preheated grill. Grill for about 6 minutes on each side, or until the slices have nice grill marks and are heated through. The sugar will caramelize, adding a beautiful golden-brown color and enhancing the natural sweetness of the pineapple. Be sure to watch the slices carefully to prevent burning.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once the pineapple slices are grilled to perfection, remove them from the grill using tongs. Serve the grilled pineapple hot, straight off the grill. These slices are delicious on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with ice cream, yogurt, or as a topping for pancakes and waffles. For a savory twist, try serving them alongside grilled meats or fish.

Adjusting Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet treat, you can reduce the amount of cinnamon sugar. Alternatively, for a richer flavor, sprinkle a little brown sugar over the pineapple rings before grilling.

Adding Spice: For an extra kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cinnamon sugar mixture. The heat from the pepper complements the sweetness of the pineapple beautifully.

Serving Suggestions: Grilled pineapple slices make a versatile dish. Serve them as a dessert, a side dish, or even as a unique addition to a tropical salad. They're also great in tacos or as a topping for grilled chicken or pork.

Storage: If you have leftovers, store the grilled pineapple slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to three days and can be enjoyed cold or reheated on the grill or in a skillet.

Grilling fruit might not be the first thing that comes to mind when planning a barbecue, but once you try grilled pineapple, you'll be hooked. The heat of the grill brings out the natural sugars in the fruit, intensifying its sweetness and adding a wonderful smoky flavor. The combination of cinnamon and coconut milk adds a touch of complexity, making each bite a delightful experience.

This recipe is not only simple but also versatile. You can easily adjust the flavors to suit your preferences or the theme of your meal. Plus, it's a great way to use fresh pineapple when it's in season, providing a refreshing and healthy option for summer gatherings.

Whether you're an experienced griller or just starting, this grilled pineapple recipe is foolproof and sure to impress your family and friends. So next time you're firing up the grill, give this sweet and smoky treat a try. You'll find that grilled pineapple slices are a delicious addition to any meal, and you might just find yourself making them again and again.

Grilled pineapple slices are a fantastic way to enjoy the natural sweetness of pineapple with a delightful smoky twist. The addition of cinnamon and coconut milk enhances the flavor, making it a treat you won't be able to resist. This simple recipe is perfect for summer barbecues, family gatherings, or a special dessert. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the grill, and enjoy the deliciousness of grilled pineapple slices. You won't be disappointed!