How Long to Grill Pineapple on a Charcoal Grill for Perfect Flavor

By Avi Green February 19, 2023

Grilling is a beloved pastime for barbecue enthusiasts, combining the joy of cooking with the great outdoors. Among the many items you can bring to the barbecue, pineapple stands out for its sweet and tangy taste that perfectly complements smoky flavors. But the real question that often arises is how long to grill pineapple on a charcoal grill? Lets dive into this exciting culinary journey and find out!

how long to grill pineapple on charcoal grill

Why Grill Pineapple?

Pineapple is a tropical fruit known for its juicy and slightly tart flavor. Grilling pineapple brings out its natural sugars, caramelizing its surface and infusing it with smoky goodness. This sweet and savory combination makes grilled pineapple a dynamic addition to any barbecue menu, whether served as a side dish or a dessert.

Preparing Pineapple for the Grill

Choosing the Right Pineapple

Picking the right pineapple is crucial for a successful grill. Look for a ripe pineapple that has a sweet aroma at the bottom. The skin should be firm but yield slightly to pressure. Avoid pineapples with soft spots or a fermented smell.

Slicing the Pineapple

Once you have your perfect pineapple, its time to prep. Heres a simple method:

Twist off the crown and cut off the bottom of the pineapple to create a stable base.
Stand the pineapple upright and slice off the skin, moving from top to bottom. Remove any remaining eyes with a paring knife.
Slice the pineapple into rings or spears, depending on your preference.

Grilling Pineapple on a Charcoal Grill

Setting Up Your Charcoal Grill

Before you start grilling, its essential to set up your charcoal grill correctly. Ensure the charcoal is hot and evenly distributed. For detailed instructions on setting up a charcoal grill, you can visit Family Handyman.

Grilling Time and Temperature

The key to perfectly grilled pineapple is managing your grills temperature and timing. Heres a guide:

Direct Heat: For quick grilling, place the pineapple directly over the hot coals. Grill for about 3-4 minutes on each side until you see grill marks.
Indirect Heat: For a more evenly cooked pineapple, use indirect heat by moving the pineapple away from the coals. Grill for about 6-8 minutes per side.

Regardless of the method, the goal is to achieve a caramelized and slightly charred exterior while keeping the inside juicy.

Enhancing the Flavor

Marinades and Seasonings

While plain grilled pineapple is delightful, you can elevate its flavor with various marinades or seasonings. Here are some ideas:

Honey and Lime: Brush the pineapple with a mixture of honey and lime juice before grilling.
Brown Sugar and Cinnamon: Sprinkle a blend of brown sugar and cinnamon on the pineapple slices.
Rum and Vanilla: Marinate the pineapple in rum and vanilla extract for a boozy treat.

Serving Suggestions

Perfect Pairings

Grilled pineapple pairs beautifully with a range of dishes. Here are some serving ideas:

With Meat: Add grilled pineapple to your barbecue spread as a side to grilled chicken, pork, or seafood.
As a Dessert: Serve grilled pineapple with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce.
In Salads: Toss grilled pineapple chunks into a fresh summer salad for a burst of sweetness.