Grilled Pineapple Skewers

The first time I introduced Grilled Pineapple Skewers at our annual summer barbecue, I wasn’t sure what to expect. I’d always loved grilled fruit, but pineapple? It seemed almost too simple. Yet, as the sweet, smoky aroma began to waft from the grill, mingling with the savory scents of burgers and ribs, a curious crowd started to gather. My kids, usuallyeline for the hot dogs, were suddenly captivated by the glistening, golden-brown pineapple chunks charring beautifully on their skewers. The verdict? An overwhelming success! They vanished in minutes, with even my notoriously picky nephew asking for seconds. Since that day, these Grilled Pineapple Skewers have become a non-negotiable staple at any outdoor gathering we host. They are ridiculously easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients, yet they deliver a taste explosion that is both sophisticated and crowd-pleasing. The natural sweetness of the pineapple intensifies on the grill, creating a delightful caramelization that, when paired with a hint of spice or a simple glaze, transforms this humble fruit into a star. Whether served as a light dessert, a vibrant side dish, or even a topping for ice cream, these skewers bring a touch of tropical sunshine to any meal. This recipe isn’t just about delicious food; it’s about creating those little moments of joy and surprise, watching faces light up with that first sweet, smoky bite. I’m so excited to share this simple yet magical recipe with you, hoping it brings as much delight to your table as it has to ours.

Ingredients

To create these mouthwatering Grilled Pineapple Skewers, you’ll need a few simple yet crucial components that come together to produce a truly unforgettable flavor. Each ingredient plays a specific role, from providing the juicy base to adding layers of sweetness and warmth.

• 1 large, ripe pineapple: The star of the show! Look for a pineapple that is golden-yellow in color, firm to the touch with a slight give, and has a sweet aroma at its base. A ripe pineapple will be naturally sweet and juicy, making it perfect for grilling. This will yield approximately 4-5 cups of 1-inch pineapple chunks.
• 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar: This provides a lovely caramelization on the grill and adds a molasses-like sweetness that complements the pineapple’s tartness. Ensure it’s packed firmly into the measuring cup for accuracy.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: A warm spice that pairs beautifully with pineapple and brown sugar, adding depth and a comforting aroma. Freshly ground cinnamon will offer the most potent flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional, but recommended): Nutmeg introduces a slightly more complex, nutty warmth that elevates the flavor profile. A small amount goes a long way.
• 2 tablespoons melted coconut oil (or neutral cooking oil like canola or vegetable oil): This helps the sugar and spices adhere to the pineapple and prevents the fruit from sticking to the grill grates. Coconut oil also imparts a subtle tropical note. If using solid coconut oil, melt it gently before use.
• 1 tablespoon lime juice (freshly squeezed, optional): A splash of fresh lime juice can brighten the flavors and add a zesty counterpoint to the sweetness. It also helps to tenderize the pineapple slightly.
• Pinch of salt (optional): A tiny pinch of salt can surprisingly enhance the sweetness of the pineapple and balance the overall flavors.
• Wooden or metal skewers: If using wooden skewers, you’ll need about 8-10, and they should be soaked in water for at least 30 minutes prior to grilling to prevent them from burning. Metal skewers do not require soaking.

These carefully selected ingredients ensure that your Grilled Pineapple Skewers are not just cooked fruit, but a delightful culinary experience, bursting with caramelized sweetness and warm, inviting spices. The quality of your pineapple will significantly impact the final result, so take a moment to choose a good one!

Instructions

Transforming a fresh pineapple into delectable grilled skewers is a straightforward process. Follow these detailed steps to achieve perfectly caramelized, juicy, and flavorful results every time. Remember, grilling is as much an art as a science, so feel free to adjust cooking times based on your grill’s specific heat and your desired level of char.

1. Prepare the Pineapple:
   • Begin by carefully cutting your pineapple. Lay the pineapple on its side on a sturdy cutting board. Using a large, sharp chef’s knife, slice off the top crown and the bottom base, creating two flat surfaces.
   • Stand the pineapple upright on one of the flat ends. Carefully slice downwards, following the contour of the pineapple, to remove the tough outer skin. Rotate the pineapple and continue slicing until all the skin is removed. Don’t worry if a few “eyes” (the small brown spots) remain; you can remove these individually with the tip of your knife or a pineapple corer tool later, or simply cut around them when dicing.
   • Once peeled, you have a few options for coring. You can slice the pineapple into 1-inch thick rounds, then use a small round cookie cutter or a knife to remove the tough central core from each slice. Alternatively, quarter the pineapple lengthwise, then slice away the V-shaped core from each quarter.
   • Cut the cored pineapple flesh into uniform 1 to 1.5-inch chunks. Uniformity is key here, as it ensures even cooking on the grill. Aim for pieces that are substantial enough to hold up on the skewers and during grilling. You should have about 4-5 cups of pineapple chunks.
2. Soak Wooden Skewers (if using):
   • If you’re using wooden or bamboo skewers, place them in a shallow dish or a tall glass filled with water. Ensure they are fully submerged. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes. This crucial step prevents the skewers from catching fire and burning to a crisp on the hot grill. Metal skewers do not require this step.
3. Prepare the Glaze/Coating:
   • In a small mixing bowl, combine the packed light brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and optional ground nutmeg and pinch of salt. Whisk them together thoroughly to ensure the spices are evenly distributed throughout the sugar.
   • In a separate small bowl, melt the coconut oil if it’s solid. You can do this in the microwave in short 10-15 second bursts or in a small saucepan over low heat.
   • If using, add the freshly squeezed lime juice to the melted coconut oil.
4. Coat the Pineapple:
   • Place the pineapple chunks in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle the melted coconut oil (and lime juice, if using) over the pineapple. Toss gently with a spoon or your hands to ensure each piece is lightly coated. The oil will help the sugar mixture stick and will also prevent the pineapple from sticking to the grill.
   • Sprinkle the brown sugar and spice mixture over the oiled pineapple chunks. Toss again, very gently, until all the pineapple pieces are evenly coated with the sweet and spicy mixture. Be thorough but gentle to avoid mashing the pineapple.
5. Assemble the Skewers:
   • Carefully thread the coated pineapple chunks onto your prepared skewers. Leave a small space (about 1/4 inch) between each piece of pineapple. This allows the heat to circulate around each chunk, promoting even cooking and caramelization on all sides.
   • Don’t overcrowd the skewers. Typically, 4-6 pieces of pineapple per skewer is a good amount, depending on the length of your skewers and the size of your pineapple chunks. Leave some space at both ends of the skewer for easier handling on the grill.
6. Preheat the Grill:
   • Preheat your outdoor grill or indoor grill pan to medium-high heat, around 375-450°F (190-230°C).
   • Clean the grill grates thoroughly with a grill brush. This prevents sticking and ensures you get those beautiful, clean grill marks. Once clean, you can lightly oil the grates by wiping them with a paper towel dipped in a high-heat cooking oil (like canola or vegetable oil), using tongs for safety.
7. Grill the Pineapple Skewers:
   • Carefully place the assembled pineapple skewers directly onto the preheated and cleaned grill grates.
   • Grill for approximately 3-5 minutes per side. The exact cooking time will vary depending on the heat of your grill and the thickness of your pineapple chunks. You are looking for the pineapple to become tender, heated through, and develop beautiful, dark golden-brown grill marks. The sugar will caramelize, creating a slightly crispy and incredibly flavorful exterior.
   • Use tongs to turn the skewers, ensuring all sides get some time on the heat. Watch them closely, as the sugar can burn if the heat is too high or if they are left unattended for too long. You want caramelization, not charring to the point of bitterness.
   • The pineapple should be tender enough to easily pierce with a fork but still hold its shape. The aroma will be incredibly inviting – sweet, smoky, and spicy.
8. Rest and Serve:
   • Once the pineapple skewers are perfectly grilled, carefully remove them from the grill using tongs and place them on a clean platter or serving dish.
   • Allow them to rest for a few minutes before serving. They will be very hot! This short resting period also allows the juices to redistribute slightly.
   • Serve warm and enjoy the delightful combination of sweet, tangy, smoky, and spiced flavors.

By following these instructions, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying some of the best grilled pineapple skewers you’ve ever tasted. The key is good quality pineapple, careful preparation, and attentive grilling.

Nutrition Facts

These Grilled Pineapple Skewers are not only a delicious treat but also offer some appealing nutritional aspects, especially when enjoyed as part of a balanced diet. The values below are approximate and can vary based on pineapple size and exact ingredient quantities.

• Servings: This recipe typically yields 4-6 servings (assuming 1-2 skewers per person).
• Calories per serving (approximate): 120-180 calories (this can vary based on the size of the pineapple chunks and the amount of sugar mixture adhered).

Here are a few key nutritional highlights:

1. Rich in Vitamin C: Pineapple is an excellent source of Vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that supports the immune system, aids in collagen production for healthy skin, and helps protect cells from damage. Grilling retains a good portion of this essential vitamin.
2. Source of Manganese: This fruit is also a good source of manganese, a trace mineral that plays a role in bone health, metabolism, and antioxidant enzyme function.
3. Dietary Fiber: Pineapple provides dietary fiber, which is important for digestive health, helping to promote regularity and contributing to feelings of fullness. While not extremely high, it adds a beneficial amount.
4. Naturally Sweet with Controlled Added Sugar: While the recipe includes brown sugar for caramelization and flavor, the primary sweetness comes from the pineapple itself. When consumed in moderation, it can be a healthier alternative to more processed, sugary desserts.
5. Low in Fat: Especially when using coconut oil judiciously or a light spray of cooking oil, these skewers are naturally low in fat, making them a lighter option for a dessert or side dish.

It’s important to remember that these Grilled Pineapple Skewers are a treat. While pineapple offers health benefits, the added sugar contributes to the overall calorie and sugar content. Enjoy them as part of a varied and balanced diet.

Preparation Time

One of the many beauties of this Grilled Pineapple Skewers recipe is its relatively quick and straightforward preparation, making it an excellent choice for weeknight treats or easy entertaining.

• Active Preparation Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes. This includes the time taken to wash, peel, core, and chop the pineapple, mix the sugar-spice blend, and thread the pineapple onto the skewers. If you are a quick hand with a knife or use a pineapple corer/slicer tool, this time might be even shorter.
• Soaking Time (for wooden skewers): At least 30 minutes. This is passive time, during which you can be preparing other parts of your meal or preheating the grill.
• Grilling Time: Approximately 10-15 minutes. This depends on your grill’s temperature and how caramelized you like your pineapple, typically 3-5 minutes per side.

Total Time (excluding skewer soaking if using metal): Roughly 25-35 minutes from start to finish.

This relatively short time investment yields a remarkably flavorful and impressive dish. The majority of the effort is in the initial pineapple prep, but once that’s done, the journey to delicious, smoky, sweet skewers is swift and enjoyable. It’s the kind of recipe that delivers a big flavor payoff for minimal fuss.

How to Serve

Grilled Pineapple Skewers are incredibly versatile and can be served in a multitude of delightful ways, transitioning seamlessly from a simple side dish to a show-stopping dessert. Their sweet, smoky, and slightly tangy flavor profile pairs well with a wide range of accompaniments. Here are some inspiring ideas on how to serve your perfectly grilled pineapple:

• As a Standalone Dessert:
  • Simply Warm: Serve the skewers warm, straight off the grill. The natural sweetness and caramelized edges are often enough to satisfy a sweet tooth.
  • With a Dollop of Cream: Add a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream, coconut ice cream, or a generous dollop of freshly whipped cream alongside the warm skewers. The contrast between the warm, grilled pineapple and the cool, creamy topping is heavenly.
  • Yogurt Parfait Style: Layer chunks of grilled pineapple (removed from skewers) with Greek yogurt (plain or vanilla) and a sprinkle of granola or toasted nuts for a healthier dessert or even a special breakfast treat.
  • Drizzled with Chocolate or Caramel: For an extra decadent touch, drizzle the warm pineapple skewers with a bit of melted dark chocolate, a salted caramel sauce, or even a honey-lime glaze.
• As a Flavorful Side Dish:
  • BBQ Companion: They are a fantastic accompaniment to grilled meats like chicken, pork (especially pulled pork or pork tenderloin), or even spicy sausages. The sweetness of the pineapple cuts through the richness of the meat beautifully.
  • With Fish or Shrimp: Serve alongside grilled fish tacos, seared scallops, or grilled shrimp for a tropical twist.
  • In Salads: Let the grilled pineapple cool slightly, remove it from the skewers, and toss it into a summer salad with mixed greens, avocado, red onion, and a citrus vinaigrette for a burst of sweet and smoky flavor.
  • Alongside Rice Dishes: Pair with coconut rice or a simple pilaf to add a fruity element to the meal.
• As a Topping or Garnish:
  • Pork or Chicken Dishes: Dice the grilled pineapple and use it as a topping for baked ham, roasted chicken, or pork chops.
  • On Burgers: Add a slice of grilled pineapple (you can grill pineapple rings for this purpose) to your burgers for a Hawaiian-style treat.
  • Cocktail Garnish: Use small chunks of grilled pineapple as a sophisticated and flavorful garnish for tropical cocktails like Piña Coladas, Mai Tais, or rum punch.
• Presentation Matters:
  • On a Platter: Arrange the skewers attractively on a large platter, perhaps garnished with fresh mint leaves or a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes for visual appeal.
  • Family Style: Serve them in a bowl (chunks removed from skewers) so guests can easily add them to their plates.
  • Individual Servings: For a more formal presentation, serve one or two skewers per plate alongside the main course or dessert component.

No matter how you choose to serve them, these Grilled Pineapple Skewers are sure to be a hit, adding a touch of sunshine and exotic flavor to any occasion. Experiment with different pairings to discover your favorite way to enjoy this simple yet elegant treat!

Additional Tips

To elevate your Grilled Pineapple Skewers from simply good to absolutely spectacular, and to ensure a smooth grilling experience, consider these eight additional tips:

1. Choosing the Perfect Pineapple: The foundation of this recipe is the pineapple itself. Look for one that has a vibrant, golden-yellow rind (some green is okay, especially near the top), fragrant sweet smell at the base, and leaves that can be plucked relatively easily from the crown. It should feel heavy for its size and give slightly when pressed. Avoid pineapples with soft spots, bruises, a fermented smell, or dried-out leaves, as these indicate overripeness or poor quality. A perfectly ripe pineapple is naturally sweeter and juicier, requiring less added sugar and grilling up beautifully.
2. Don’t Skip Soaking Wooden Skewers: If you’re using wooden or bamboo skewers, soaking them in water for at least 30 minutes (or even longer, up to a few hours) is crucial. This prevents them from charring excessively or catching fire on the grill. For extra flavor, you can try soaking them in pineapple juice or even a diluted rum solution for an adult twist. Metal skewers are a great reusable alternative and conduct heat well, which can help cook the inside of the pineapple chunks.
3. Uniformity in Pineapple Chunks: When cutting your pineapple, strive to make the chunks as uniform in size and thickness (around 1 to 1.5 inches) as possible. This ensures that all the pieces cook evenly on the grill. If some pieces are significantly larger or smaller than others, you’ll end up with some undercooked and some potentially burnt.
4. Experiment with Glaze Variations: While the brown sugar and cinnamon glaze is classic and delicious, don’t be afraid to experiment!
   • Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, chili powder, or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the glaze for a sweet and spicy contrast.
   • Herbal Notes: Incorporate finely chopped fresh mint or basil into the glaze just before grilling for a fresh, aromatic twist.
   • Other Sweeteners: Try maple syrup or honey as alternatives to brown sugar, keeping in mind they might caramelize differently.
   • Rum or Bourbon Infusion: A tablespoon of dark rum or bourbon added to the melted butter/oil and sugar mixture can add a wonderful depth of flavor (the alcohol will mostly cook off).
5. Grill Temperature and Oiling: Maintain a medium-high heat (around 375-450°F or 190-230°C). If the grill is too hot, the sugar will burn before the pineapple cooks through. If it’s too cool, you won’t get those desirable grill marks or proper caramelization. Always ensure your grill grates are clean and well-oiled before placing the skewers down. This prevents sticking and helps create those beautiful char lines.
6. Don’t Overcrowd the Grill (or the Skewers): When placing skewers on the grill, leave some space between them. This allows hot air to circulate freely, ensuring even cooking. Similarly, when threading pineapple onto the skewers, leave a tiny bit of space between each chunk. This helps the heat reach all sides of the pineapple pieces for better caramelization.
7. Watch for Flare-Ups: The sugar in the glaze can sometimes cause minor flare-ups on the grill. Keep a close eye on the skewers and be prepared to move them to a cooler part of the grill if necessary. Having a spray bottle with water nearby can help manage small flare-ups, but use it sparingly to avoid cooling down the grill too much.
8. Making Ahead and Storing Leftovers:
   • Prep Ahead: You can cut the pineapple chunks and prepare the sugar-spice mixture a day in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Coat and skewer the pineapple just before grilling for the best results.
   • Storing Leftovers: If you have any leftover grilled pineapple (a rare occurrence!), remove it from the skewers and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave, on a grill pan, or enjoy it cold in salads or with yogurt. The texture might be slightly softer upon reheating.

By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll be well-equipped to grill pineapple skewers that are consistently delicious, perfectly cooked, and a joy to serve.

FAQ section

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about making Grilled Pineapple Skewers, designed to help you troubleshoot and perfect your recipe:

1. Q: Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh pineapple?
   A: While fresh pineapple is highly recommended for the best flavor and texture, you can use canned pineapple chunks in a pinch. Opt for pineapple packed in its own juice, not heavy syrup, and drain it very thoroughly. Pat the chunks dry with paper towels before coating and grilling. Be aware that canned pineapple is often softer and may not hold up as well on the skewers or achieve the same level of caramelization as fresh pineapple. The flavor will also be slightly different.
2. Q: How do I know when my pineapple is perfectly ripe for grilling?
   A: A ripe pineapple will have a fragrant, sweet aroma at its base. The exterior should be more golden-yellow than green (though some green is fine). It should feel firm but give slightly when squeezed gently. The leaves in the crown should look fresh, and you should be able to pull one out from the center with a gentle tug (though this isn’t always a foolproof indicator). Avoid pineapples that are entirely green and hard (underripe) or have soft spots, bruises, or a fermented smell (overripe).
3. Q: My wooden skewers keep burning on the grill, even after soaking. What am I doing wrong?
   A: Ensure you are soaking the skewers for at least 30 minutes, completely submerged in water. If they are still burning, your grill might be too hot directly under the exposed parts of the skewer. Try to position the skewers so that the pineapple chunks cover most of the skewer area exposed to direct heat, or create a “cool zone” on your grill where the skewer handles can rest. You can also wrap the exposed ends of the skewers loosely in small pieces of aluminum foil for extra protection.
4. Q: What if I don’t have an outdoor grill? Can I still make these?
   A: Absolutely! You can achieve similar delicious results using an indoor grill pan on your stovetop. Preheat the grill pan over medium-high heat, lightly oil it, and cook the skewers for 3-5 minutes per side, just like on an outdoor grill. You can also use a broiler: place skewers on a broiler-safe pan and broil for 2-4 minutes per side, watching very closely as they can burn quickly. The flavor will be slightly different without the smokiness of an outdoor grill, but still fantastic.
5. Q: How can I prevent the pineapple from sticking to the grill grates?
   A: There are a few key steps: First, ensure your grill grates are very clean. Old debris is a primary cause of sticking. Second, preheat your grill properly; food is less likely to stick to a hot surface. Third, lightly oil the grill grates just before adding the pineapple. You can do this by wiping them with a paper towel dipped in high-heat oil, held with tongs. Finally, ensuring the pineapple itself is lightly coated in oil (as per the recipe) also helps.
6. Q: Can I make the glaze sugar-free or use a sugar substitute?
   A: Yes, you can experiment with sugar substitutes, but the caramelization might be different. Erythritol-based brown sugar alternatives can work, but they may not melt and caramelize in the same way as regular brown sugar. For a naturally less-sweet version, you could omit the brown sugar entirely and rely on the natural sweetness of the pineapple, perhaps with just cinnamon and a touch of oil. The signature caramelized crust, however, comes largely from the sugar.
7. Q: What are some other fruits that grill well with pineapple on skewers?
   A: Pineapple pairs wonderfully with other firm fruits that can withstand the heat of the grill. Consider adding chunks of peaches, nectarines, firm plums, mango, or even strawberries (add these towards the end of grilling as they cook quickly). Ensure all fruits are cut to a similar size for even cooking. Bell peppers and red onion also make a great savory contrast if you’re aiming for a more versatile skewer.
8. Q: How do I store leftover grilled pineapple skewers, and how can I reheat them?
   A: Allow leftover grilled pineapple to cool completely. Then, remove the pineapple chunks from the skewers and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can gently warm them in the microwave for a few seconds, sauté them briefly in a pan, or even place them back on a grill pan for a minute or two to refresh the caramelized exterior. They are also delicious cold, added to yogurt or salads.

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