Grilled pineapple on the Blackstone griddle is a delightful way to bring a tropical twist to your meals. Using the griddle’s even heat, you can achieve perfectly caramelized pineapple slices that burst with flavor. This versatile recipe suits a variety of occasions, whether you’re preparing a side dish or a simple dessert.
To prepare grilled pineapple, slice the fruit into spears or wedges after removing the core. Brush each piece with a mix of honey and melted butter for added sweetness. Place the pineapple on the griddle, rotating every couple of minutes to ensure all sides are caramelized.
Whether served warm on its own or as a topping for burgers or salads, grilled pineapple elevates any dish. The sweet and tangy flavors meld wonderfully with the slight char from the griddle, making it an irresistible addition to your culinary repertoire.
Preparing the Ingredients and Griddle
To create the perfect grilled pineapple on your Blackstone griddle, you need to focus on choosing the right pineapple, making a tasty marinade, and setting up your griddle correctly.
Selecting the Pineapple
Choose a ripe and fresh pineapple. A ripe pineapple will have a sweet aroma at the base, a firm body, and slightly soft skin when pressed. Avoid pineapples that have soft spots or an overly strong smell, as these may be overripe.
Fresh pineapples are not only flavorful but also packed with vitamin C and fiber. Both enhance the natural sweetness of the fruit when cooked on a griddle.
Creating the Marinade
To enhance the pineapple’s natural sweetness, prepare a simple and delicious marinade. You can use honey, cinnamon, and a bit of brown sugar to bring out the best in the pineapple.
You might also add a dash of salt to balance the flavors. Combine 1/4 cup of honey, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and 2 tablespoons of brown sugar in a bowl. Mix well until the sugar dissolves. If you prefer a more savory taste, you can use a blend of olive oil or avocado oil with a pinch of salt.
Setting Up Your Blackstone Griddle
Preheat your Blackstone griddle to medium-high heat. This ensures even cooking and allows the pineapple’s sugars to caramelize properly. Coat the griddle with a light amount of oil, such as extra-virgin olive oil or avocado oil, to prevent sticking.
Once the griddle is hot, arrange the pineapple slices or spears evenly. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until they are lightly browned and slightly caramelized.
Using a griddle at medium-high heat ensures your pineapple cooks without burning, releasing a delicious, sweet aroma and achieving perfect caramelization.
Grilling to Perfection
Achieving the perfect grilled pineapple involves using the right techniques and paying attention to details. You’ll learn about the cooking process, how to serve the pineapple, and the best ways to store leftovers.
The Grilling Process
Start by heating your Blackstone griddle to medium-high heat. Lightly coat the surface with extra-virgin olive oil to prevent sticking. Cut the pineapple into spears or slices, removing the tough core.
In a bowl, cover the pineapple pieces with a mix of cinnamon, honey, and melted butter. This adds a rich, caramelized texture. Place the pineapple on the griddle. Rotate them every 2 minutes for even cooking.
Look for light browning and caramelization on all sides. Cook each side for about 3-4 minutes. Aim for deliciously charred grill marks to develop. These create a smoky flavor, making the pineapple both tasty and visually appealing.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
Serve warm grilled pineapple as a topping for burgers, tacos, or salads. It also makes a great side dish for pizza or steak. Use it as a dessert by pairing with vanilla ice cream or yogurt.
Grilled pineapple can also be diced and added to salsa for a tropical twist. Consider serving it alone as a simple, healthy treat. The versatile nature of grilled pineapple means it can complement various dishes.
Storing Leftovers
To store leftover grilled pineapple, place the pieces in an airtight container. Refrigerate immediately to keep them fresh. They can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
If you have a lot of leftovers, consider freezing them. Spread the pineapple pieces on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer bag. This method preserves the flavor and texture for longer.
When ready to use, thaw in the refrigerator or reheat briefly on the griddle. The texture and taste will remain pleasantly intact. This makes it easy to enjoy grilled pineapple at a later time without losing its delicious qualities.
Cassie brings decades of experience to the Kitchen Community. She is a noted chef and avid gardener. Her new book "Healthy Eating Through the Garden" will be released shortly. When not writing or speaking about food and gardens Cassie can be found puttering around farmer's markets and greenhouses looking for the next great idea.
