Chili Lime Grilled Pineapple: A Sweet & Spicy Tropical Delight

Imagine the scent of fresh pineapple caramelizing on a hot grill, kissed with a tangy squeeze of lime and the gentle heat of chili powder. It’s not just a dish—it’s a full sensory experience that instantly transports you to a tropical beachside BBQ. Chili Lime Grilled Pineapple is the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and smoky, transforming a simple fruit into a show-stopping side dish, snack, or dessert.

What makes this recipe special is its simplicity paired with bold flavors. The natural sugars in pineapple caramelize beautifully when grilled, creating those gorgeous char marks and an irresistible aroma. A quick brush of chili, lime, and honey adds layers of complexity—sweetness meets spice, and tang meets smokiness.

Ingredients Needed

Below is a quick breakdown of what you’ll need for Chili Lime Grilled Pineapple, along with an approximate calorie count per ingredient (for the total recipe, see the nutritional section).

Ingredient	Quantity	Approx. Calories
Fresh pineapple (peeled, cored, sliced into rings or spears)	1 medium	450
Lime juice (freshly squeezed)	2 tbsp	10
Chili powder	1 tsp	8
Honey or maple syrup	1 tbsp	64
Olive oil (for brushing)	1 tbsp	120
Salt (optional, to taste)	pinch	0

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the Pineapple
   Start by peeling, coring, and slicing the pineapple into even rings or long spears. Make sure they’re about ¾ inch thick—thin enough to caramelize but sturdy enough to stay intact on the grill.
2. Make the Chili Lime Glaze
   In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, honey, olive oil, and chili powder until well combined. The mixture should be slightly thick and aromatic. Adjust chili powder according to your spice preference.
3. Preheat the Grill
   Set your grill (gas, charcoal, or grill pan) to medium-high heat, around 400°F (200°C). Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
4. Brush and Grill
   Brush each pineapple piece with the chili lime glaze and place it directly on the grill. Cook for about 3–4 minutes per side, or until you see deep grill marks and the edges start to caramelize.
5. Brush Again and Serve
   Once grilled, remove from the heat and brush with a little more glaze. Sprinkle with a tiny pinch of salt to balance the flavors and enhance sweetness.

Tips for Customizing the Recipe

• Turn Up the Heat: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or crushed red chili flakes for a bolder kick.
• Make It Vegan: Swap honey for agave syrup or pure maple syrup.
• Add a Smoky Twist: Use smoked paprika instead of chili powder for a deep, barbecue-like aroma.
• Serve with a Dip: Pair it with a cool coconut yogurt or vanilla ice cream for a sweet contrast.
• Try Alternative Fruits: The same glaze works beautifully on mango, peaches, or even watermelon.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	~110 kcal
Carbohydrates	24 g
Sugars	20 g
Fat	3 g
Protein	1 g
Fiber	2 g
Vitamin C	88% DV
Sodium	<1% DV

Serving Suggestions

• As a Side Dish: Perfect alongside grilled chicken, shrimp skewers, or spicy tacos for a sweet contrast.
• As a Dessert: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla or coconut ice cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce.
• As a Snack or Appetizer: Cut into bite-sized chunks and serve on skewers at summer parties.
• Tropical Salad Addition: Chop and toss with avocado, cilantro, and red onion for a refreshing twist.

FAQs

1. Can I make chili lime grilled pineapple without a grill?

Yes! If you don’t have an outdoor grill, you can use a grill pan or a cast-iron skillet on the stovetop. Simply heat the pan over medium-high heat, brush it lightly with oil, and cook the pineapple until caramelized and golden brown on both sides.

2. What type of chili powder works best for this recipe?

Mild chili powder is perfect if you want a gentle heat and rich color. For extra spice, try ancho chili powder, chipotle powder, or even a small pinch of cayenne pepper. Adjust according to your heat preference.

3. How long should I grill the pineapple?

Typically, 3–4 minutes per side is enough. You’ll know it’s ready when the pineapple has nice grill marks and starts to caramelize around the edges. Avoid overcooking, as it can make the texture too soft.

4. Can I prepare chili lime grilled pineapple in advance?

Yes, you can slice the pineapple and prepare the glaze a few hours ahead. However, for the best flavor and texture, grill it just before serving. Reheating tends to make the pineapple a bit soggy.

5. Is chili lime grilled pineapple healthy?

Absolutely! Pineapple is packed with vitamin C, antioxidants, and digestive enzymes. Grilling it with a small amount of healthy oil and spices adds flavor without excess calories, making it a light and refreshing treat.

Conclusion

Chili Lime Grilled Pineapple is proof that the simplest ingredients can create extraordinary flavor. The sweetness of ripe pineapple mingles with zesty lime and a gentle chili heat to form a dish that’s bright, bold, and unforgettable. Whether you serve it at a cookout, enjoy it as a light dessert, or sneak it into your weekday meals, it’s a recipe that never fails to impress.