Spicy Grilled Pineapple is a delightful twist on a classic tropical fruit, perfect for adding a kick to your summer barbecues or as a sweet and spicy side dish. This recipe brings together the sweetness of pineapple with a zesty marinade that's sure to tantalize your taste buds.
Pineapple: The star of the show, providing a natural sweetness that's enhanced by the grill. Look for a ripe one for the best flavor.
Chili powder: Adds a spicy kick, balancing the pineapple's sweetness. Adjust the amount to your heat preference.
Olive oil: Helps the marinade adhere to the pineapple and prevents sticking on the grill.
Honey: Enhances the natural sugars in the pineapple and aids in caramelization.
Lime juice: Adds a fresh, zesty flavor that complements the sweetness and heat.
Sea salt: Elevates flavors and balances the sweetness and spice.
Black pepper: Adds a mild heat and depth of flavor.
Spicy Grilled Pineapple pairs wonderfully with grilled meats like chicken or pork. It also makes a fantastic topping for salads, or you can dice it up and add it to a salsa for a tropical twist. For a light dessert, serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures that the pineapple will caramelize nicely and gain those desirable grill marks. While the grill heats up, grab your pineapple and slice it into 1/2-inch thick rings, making sure to remove the core from each slice. This step is key to making the pineapple easy to eat and enjoy.
In a small bowl, mix together the chili powder, olive oil, honey, lime juice, sea salt, and black pepper to form a marinade. This mixture will coat the pineapple and infuse it with flavor. Generously brush the marinade onto both sides of the pineapple slices. Don’t be shy with the marinade; you want each bite to have a burst of flavor.
Place the pineapple slices on the grill, cooking for about 3-4 minutes on each side. Look for those beautiful grill marks and a slight caramelization around the edges. The grill should do most of the work here, intensifying the pineapple’s natural sugars. Once done, remove the slices from the grill and serve immediately. An extra squeeze of lime juice on top can add an extra zing, if you like.