If you’re craving a tropical twist that’s both sweet and tangy, this Grilled Pineapple with Lime and Coconut Recipe is going to be your new go-to. The caramelized char on juicy pineapple slices paired with a luscious lime-coconut glaze delivers an irresistible flavor explosion that’s perfect for summer or any time you want a deliciously fresh treat.
Why You Should Make This Recipe
Effortlessly impressive: This recipe takes minimal ingredients and time but yields a mouthwatering dish that feels fancy.
Unique flavor combo: The zesty lime and fragrant coconut extract bring out the pineapple’s natural sweetness with an exciting twist.
Versatile dessert or side: Serve it as a refreshing dessert or a lively side dish for grilled meats.
Great for any skill level: Whether you’re a seasoned griller or a kitchen newbie, grilled pineapple is foolproof and fun to make.
Ingredients & Substitutions
The beauty of this Grilled Pineapple with Lime and Coconut Recipe lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients that each play an important role. The pineapple provides juicy sweetness, the brown sugar caramelizes beautifully on the grill, and the lime juice along with coconut extract brighten and deepen the flavor profile.
- Ripe pineapple: Choose a golden, fragrant pineapple for the best sweetness and juiciness.
- Brown sugar: Lightly packed brown sugar adds rich caramel notes; you can substitute with coconut sugar for a different twist.
- Salted butter: Melting salted butter brings a creamy, savory balance; unsalted butter with a pinch of salt works well too.
- Lime juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice is key for a bright citrus kick; bottled lime juice can be used in a pinch.
- Coconut extract: Adds a subtle tropical aroma — if unavailable, try a splash of coconut milk or omit entirely.
- Flaky sea salt: Sprinkling this on the pineapple brings out the sweetness while adding a satisfying crunch.
How to Make Grilled Pineapple with Lime and Coconut Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Grill
Start by heating your grill to a steady medium heat, around 300-350°F. This ensures the pineapple cooks evenly and develops those signature caramelized grill marks without burning. If you don’t have an outdoor grill, a grill pan or heavy skillet on medium heat is just as effective.
Step 2: Prepare the Pineapple
Peel the pineapple carefully, removing all the tough outer skin, then core it so you’re left with smooth rounds. Slice these pineapple rings about half an inch thick—this thickness lets them soften while grilling without falling apart. You’ll end up with approximately a dozen slices, perfect for serving.
Step 3: Whip Up the Flavor-Packed Glaze
In a bowl, whisk together brown sugar, melted salted butter, fresh lime juice, and fragrant coconut extract until smooth and glossy. This glaze is the magic that will caramelize on the pineapple’s surface, creating a sticky, citrusy coating that’s absolutely divine.
Step 4: Brush and Season
Generously brush both sides of each pineapple slice with the glaze, making sure every nook is covered. Then sprinkle flaky sea salt on top — this addition might seem small but it perfectly balances the sweetness with a touch of savory crunch, making the flavors pop.
Step 5: Grill to Perfection
Grill the pineapple slices for about 2-3 minutes on each side. You’re looking for a luscious caramelized surface with gorgeous grill marks. Flip carefully to avoid slipping, and enjoy the amazing scent that will fill your kitchen or backyard.
Step 6: Serve Warm and Enjoy
Once grilled, transfer the pineapple slices directly to your serving dish while they’re still warm. Hot off the grill is when this Grilled Pineapple with Lime and Coconut Recipe shines brightest—ready for you to add delicious optional toppings or enjoy as is.
How to Serve Grilled Pineapple with Lime and Coconut Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate your grilled pineapple by topping it with freshly grated lime zest for a burst of citrus brightness. A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream turns it into an indulgent dessert, while a drizzle of caramel sauce adds a sticky, sweet contrast that will wow your taste buds.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs beautifully with spicy grilled chicken or pork, the sweetness and acidity cutting through savory meats perfectly. It also makes a fantastic side for tiki-style barbecue feasts or as a vibrant addition to a tropical-inspired salad plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a showstopping presentation, serve the pineapple slices stacked on a platter layered with fresh mint leaves. Try skewering chunks for a fun finger food option, or layer grilled pineapple in desserts like cakes or parfaits for an eye-catching, flavorful surprise.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. The pineapple will retain much of its lovely flavor and can be enjoyed chilled or reheated gently for immediate enjoyment.
Freezing
You can freeze leftover grilled pineapple for up to six months. Frozen grilled pineapple makes for a refreshing frozen snack or a cool addition to summer smoothies — just pop from the freezer to the blender and enjoy.
Reheating
To reheat, simply warm grilled pineapple slices in a skillet over medium heat for a couple of minutes to revive that caramelized goodness. Avoid overheating, as it can make the pineapple soggy.
FAQs
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Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?
While canned pineapple is convenient, fresh pineapple offers a juicier texture and brighter flavor that really makes this grilled recipe shine. If you use canned, be sure to pat slices dry thoroughly to avoid excess moisture on the grill.
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What if I don’t have a grill?
No worries! A grill pan or a heavy skillet on the stovetop works great. Cook the pineapple over medium heat, turning after 2-3 minutes to get that caramelization and delicious grilled flavor.
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Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Just substitute the butter with coconut oil or a plant-based margarine to keep it dairy-free while maintaining rich flavor and texture.
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How do I get the best grill marks?
Make sure your grill is hot before placing the pineapple on it, and avoid moving the slices around in the first couple of minutes. This will create those beautiful caramelized lines that add both flavor and a lovely visual appeal.
Final Thoughts
This Grilled Pineapple with Lime and Coconut Recipe isn’t just a dish—it’s an experience full of tropical sunshine and coconut-kissed brightness you can enjoy any time. Treat yourself, friends, and family to this sweet and tangy delight; I promise it’ll be a new favorite before you know it!
Print
Grilled Pineapple with Lime and Coconut Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 minutes
- Total Time: 14 minutes
- Yield: 12 slices 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Tropical
Description
This Grilled Pineapple with Lime and Coconut recipe features sweet and tangy pineapple slices caramelized on the grill with a flavorful glaze of brown sugar, melted butter, lime juice, and coconut extract. Finished with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt, it’s a perfect dessert or side dish that’s easy to prepare and bursting with tropical flavors. Optional toppings like lime zest, vanilla ice cream, or caramel sauce add an extra indulgent touch.
Ingredients
Pineapple and Glaze
- 1 ripe pineapple
- ⅔ cup brown sugar, lightly packed
- ¼ cup (½ stick) salted butter, melted
- 3 tbsp lime juice (about two small limes)
- ¾ tsp coconut extract
- 2 tsp flaky sea salt
Optional Toppings
- lime zest
- vanilla ice cream
- caramel sauce
Instructions
- Preheat grill: Preheat your grill to medium heat, approximately 300-350 degrees Fahrenheit, ensuring it is evenly heated to cook the pineapple slices uniformly.
- Prepare pineapple: Peel the pineapple carefully, core it, and then slice it into ½ inch thick rings. You should get about 12 slices depending on the size of the fruit.
- Make glaze: In a medium bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, melted salted butter, fresh lime juice, and coconut extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Brush and season: Generously brush both sides of each pineapple slice with the brown sugar glaze. Sprinkle the flaky sea salt evenly over both sides to balance the sweetness with a savory touch.
- Grill pineapple: Place the prepared pineapple slices on the preheated grill. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until the pineapple is caramelized and grill marks are visible.
- Serve warm: Remove the pineapple slices from the grill and serve immediately. Optionally, garnish with lime zest or top with vanilla ice cream or caramel sauce to enhance the flavor.
Notes
- Leftover grilled pineapple can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze leftovers for up to 6 months to enjoy as a refreshing frozen treat.
- If you don’t have a grill, a grill pan or skillet on the stovetop works well; cook the pineapple slices over medium heat for 2-3 minutes on each side.
- For an extra burst of flavor, try sprinkling a bit of cinnamon or chili powder on the pineapple before grilling.
