Grilling fruit is a fantastic way to bring out its natural sweetness while adding a touch of smokiness and caramelization. Today, I’m sharing a delightful recipe for Grilled Pineapples with Honey and Mint Topping, paired perfectly with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream. This dessert is a show-stopper, offering a delicious contrast of warm, smoky pineapple and cold, sweet ice cream. Plus, it’s quick and easy to make, making it an ideal end to any summer meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 fresh pineapple, peeled, and cut into rings or spears
- 2 tablespoons of melted butter
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Vanilla ice cream (or your preferred flavor)
- Optional: a pinch of cinnamon
Instructions:
- Prepare the Grill: Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. Make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking. A clean grill ensures the best grill marks and flavor for your pineapple. When it’s hot, brush the grill with butter. The butter adds a rich flavor and helps in achieving a beautiful caramelization on the grill.
- Grill the Pineapple:
- Place the pineapple slices directly on the preheated grill.
- Grill for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until you see nice grill marks and the fruit is slightly caramelized. Keep an eye on the pineapple to avoid burning. The goal is to enhance the sweetness without overcooking.
- Make the Honey and Mint Topping:
- While the pineapple is grilling, mix together the honey, finely chopped mint leaves, and fresh lemon juice in a small bowl.
- If you enjoy a hint of spice, add a pinch of cinnamon to the mixture. This topping will add a refreshing and aromatic flavor to the grilled pineapple.
- Baste the pineapple with the honey mixture to help caramelize the pineapples
- Combine and Serve:
- Once the pineapple is grilled, remove it from the grill and let it cool slightly.
- Chop the pineapple into small chunks and generously drizzle the honey and mint mixture over the pineapple slices.
- Add a scoop (or two) of vanilla ice cream next to the grilled pineapple. The combination of warm pineapple and cold ice cream creates a delightful contrast in temperatures and textures.
- Garnish with a few extra mint leaves for a fresh and appealing touch.
- Enjoy:
- Serve immediately while the pineapple is still warm and the ice cream is cold. The interplay of flavors and temperatures will make this dessert an unforgettable experience.
Why Grilled Pineapple?
Grilled pineapple is a versatile and delicious treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. The grilling process intensifies the natural sweetness of the pineapple, while the caramelization adds a depth of flavor that’s hard to beat. Paired with a honey and mint topping, the pineapple gets a refreshing twist, making it an ideal summer dessert.
Tips for Perfect Grilled Pineapple
- Choose the Right Pineapple: Ensure your pineapple is ripe but still firm. This will help it hold up on the grill without becoming mushy.
- Uniform Slices: Cutting the pineapple into uniform pieces ensures even grilling. Rings or spears both work well.
- Butter Brushing: Brushing with butter not only prevents sticking but also adds a rich flavor that complements the pineapple’s natural sweetness.
Pairing Suggestions
While vanilla ice cream is a classic choice, you can experiment with other flavors like coconut, mango, or even a spiced rum ice cream for an extra kick. Additionally, grilled pineapple can be served with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of toasted coconut for added texture and flavor.
This Grilled Pineapple with Honey and Mint Topping is a simple yet elegant dessert that captures the essence of summer grilling. It’s perfect for impressing guests at a barbecue or simply enjoying a sweet treat on a warm evening. Give it a try, and let the flavors transport you to a tropical paradise!
