Save to Pinterest Sweet juicy pineapple goes from ordinary to unforgettable with a punchy chili-lime glaze. This recipe has been a hit at every backyard barbecue I have hosted and it instantly transforms simple fruit into a smoky tangy treat that never lasts long on the platter. It makes a brilliant ending to a relaxed summer meal or a zippy snack right off the grill.
I had my doubts the first time I tossed pineapple on the grill but now I find myself making an extra batch for breakfast parfaits the next day.
Ingredients
- Pineapple slices: ripe with strong golden color grills best and brings out caramel notes
- Lime juice: fresh is best for the brightest tang varied ripeness can shift the flavor
- Honey: gently rounds out the sharpness of the lime and balances the heat opt for local if possible
- Chili powder: try to choose a fresh or artisan blend for the richest aroma and a gentle but noticeable kick
- Salt: even a small pinch enhances the other flavors and heightens the juiciness of the fruit
Instructions
- Make the Glaze:
- Combine fresh lime juice honey a good chili powder and a pinch of salt in a bowl whisking until completely smooth so that the honey dissolves and everything melds together without graininess
- Prep the Pineapple:
- Peel your pineapple removing all eyes and cut into thick even slices about half an inch to three quarters of an inch which help the pieces stay juicy over the grill
- Brush and Coat:
- Lay out the pineapple slices and use a pastry brush to coat each side generously with the glaze making sure every edge catches a bit of chili and honey for full flavor
- Heat the Grill:
- Preheat your grill to medium high so you get strong grill marks and gentle caramelization without burning the delicate sugars
- Grill the Pineapple:
- Place the glazed slices directly on the cleaned grill grates Grill each side for two to three minutes until clear caramel marks form and the fruit softens slightly flip just once for the best appearance
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Transfer to a serving platter drizzle with an extra dab of glaze if you wish and serve hot or at room temperature either way the flavors leap off the plate
Save to Pinterest My favorite part is when the honey sizzles as the pineapple chars filling the patio with sweet tropical fragrance. One time making this my niece declared it better than cake which quickly started a new family tradition.
Storage Tips
Keep leftover grilled pineapple in an airtight container in the fridge and the flavor is still wonderful chilled the next day. For best taste eat within two days. You can gently rewarm it in a skillet if you like but it is also delicious cold tucked into yogurt or oatmeal.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap maple syrup or agave for honey to keep it plant based. For extra heat try a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika instead of the standard chili powder. Bottled lime juice works in a pinch but zesting in a bit of lime peel elevates the citrus burst.
Serving Suggestions
Pair these spicy slices with grilled pork or chicken as a tropical side. They are also fantastic chopped over vanilla ice cream or layered in tacos with beans and greens. I even toss leftovers into smoothie bowls for a burst of flavor.
Cultural and Seasonal Notes
Grilled pineapple is a signature element in many Latin and Southeast Asian dishes adding both sweetness and smoky complexity. This version brightens up summer barbecues but in winter I sometimes grill the slices on a grill pan indoors. The glaze works with other fruit like peaches or mango too.
Seasonal Adaptations
Swap pineapple for stone fruit in summer peak. Try blood orange juice in place of lime for a twist. Top with fresh chopped mint or basil for a new finish.
Success Stories
Last Fourth of July these slices disappeared so fast I never got a chance to have seconds. Friends texted me the next week just for the glaze recipe so now I always print extras to hand out. From birthday brunches to lazy Saturday dinners everyone seems to ask for them.
Freezer Meal Conversion
You can freeze the leftover grilled slices once cooled place between parchment and store in an airtight bag. Thaw overnight and reheat on the grill or in a skillet. This makes easy desserts or cocktail garnishes on short notice.
Save to Pinterest This spicy grilled pineapple is sure to be the star at your next cookout. Enjoy every sweet—smoky bite!
Common Recipe Questions
- → How do I keep pineapple slices from sticking to the grill?
Lightly oil the grill grates and ensure the pineapple is coated with glaze before grilling to prevent sticking.
- → Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?
Fresh pineapple is best for grilling, but thick canned rings can also be used if drained and patted dry.
- → What kind of honey works best?
Any liquid honey will work. Mild-flavored honey allows the pineapple and chili-lime flavors to stand out.
- → How long should I grill the pineapple slices?
Grill each side for 2-3 minutes until caramelized grill marks appear and the pineapple is tender.
- → Can I adjust the chili level?
Yes, increase or reduce the chili powder to suit your preferred spice level, or try adding cayenne.