Name: Grilled Pineapple
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 min
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon avocado oil; 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice; 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup; ¼ teaspoon sea salt; Pinches of chili powder; 1 pineapple, cut, cored, and sliced into rings; Cooking spray or additional avocado oil for brushing the grill

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Grilled pineapple is a simple yet stunning treat that brings out the fruit’s natural sweetness with a smoky, caramelized edge. In just 15 minutes of prep and 6 minutes on the grill, you’ll create a dish that’s both refreshing and indulgent. The heat intensifies the pineapple’s juicy tang, while the grill marks add a hint of char that balances its tropical flavor perfectly.

Each bite offers a delightful contrast of textures—soft, tender fruit with a slightly crisp exterior. Whether served as a dessert, snack, or topping, its vibrant flavor and golden hue make it a crowd-pleaser. This effortless recipe is your ticket to a taste of summer, no matter the season.

What You’ll Need?

1 tablespoon avocado oil (or any neutral oil like grapeseed or vegetable oil)
1 tablespoon fresh lime juice (substitute lemon juice if needed)
1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste)
¼ teaspoon sea salt
Pinches of chili powder (optional, for a hint of spice)
1 pineapple, peeled, cored, and sliced into rings (about ½-inch thick)
Cooking spray or additional avocado oil for brushing the grill

How to Make It

Preheat the grill or grill pan to medium heat (about 350°F to 375°F).
In a small bowl, mix the avocado oil, lime juice, honey, sea salt, and chili powder until well combined.
Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the pineapple rings.
Spray or lightly brush the grill grates with oil to prevent sticking.
Grill the pineapple for 3 to 4 minutes per side, or until char marks form and the pineapple is slightly caramelized.
Remove from the grill and serve warm as a snack, dessert, or topping for grilled dishes.

Sweet & Spicy Toppings to Elevate Your Pineapple

Take your grilled pineapple to the next level with these topping ideas! Drizzle with a coconut cream glaze (mix 2 tablespoons coconut cream with 1 teaspoon honey) for a tropical twist, or sprinkle with toasted coconut flakes for added crunch. For a spicy kick, dust with tajín seasoning or serve with a side of chili-lime yogurt dip (combine ½ cup Greek yogurt, 1 teaspoon lime juice, and a pinch of chili powder).

Perfect Pairings: Serving Suggestions

Grilled pineapple is incredibly versatile! Serve it as a refreshing dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or as a savory side dish alongside grilled chicken or pork. It also makes a fantastic addition to summer salads—toss it with arugula, feta, and a light vinaigrette for a sweet and tangy flavor combo.

Quick Tips for Grilling Success

To save time, prep your pineapple in advance by cutting, coring, and slicing it into rings. Store in an airtight container in the fridge until ready to grill. For even cooking, make sure your grill or grill pan is preheated to medium heat and lightly oiled to prevent sticking. Keep an eye on the pineapple—it’s done when you see those beautiful char marks but still has a juicy texture.

How to Store & Reheat Leftovers?

Store any leftover grilled pineapple in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the slices on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes, or pop them back on the grill for a quick refresh. Leftovers are also delicious cold—add them to smoothies or yogurt bowls!

Fun Variations to Try

Switch up the flavors by experimenting with different marinades! Try a brown sugar and cinnamon glaze for a caramelized treat, or go savory with a soy sauce and ginger marinade. You can also grill pineapple chunks on skewers for easy serving or use them in tacos for a sweet and smoky twist.