Grilled Teriyaki Pineapple

The picture just doesn't do this justice.  Not even close.  Its too bad you can't see the lovely caramelized sugars and juicy sweetness that is this pineapple.  I've had grilled pineapple before, but the teriyaki glaze was a new twist for me, so I wasn't sure what to expect.  I never expected to let out a little moan of pleasure at its sweet, juicy deliciousness.  It was so yummy it almost counted as a dessert. And I'm thinking it would be great over ice cream, teriyaki sauce and all.  Call me crazy!  I served this with some grilled burgers and fresh melon and it was awesome!

Even though I really know nothing about this, I'll tell you what I do know about picking a good pineapple.  First, look at the color.  Green-bad.  Yellow/gold-good.  Get a pineapple with as much yellow/gold as possible.  Second, squeeze.  You want a nice firm pineapple.  If its squishy then its over ripe and won't grill well.  Not to mention it won't taste very good.  Finally, smell.  I smell all my produce before I buy it, even potatoes.  Your nose can tell when something is over-ripe before your eyes can.  So if there is any musty odor, move on.

Grilled Teriyaki Pineapple
Serves 6-8 or just me :)


1 ripe fresh pineapple
1/2 cup of your favorite teriyaki sauce (I use this homemade version from Our Best Bites)

Cut off the prickly outer peel of the pineapple.  Be careful to get all of it, it hurts to bite into.  Then core and slice into 1/2 inch slices.  A pineapple corer works great for this, but I just used a sharp knife and it was easy. Place the pineapple slices on a clean, preheated grill.  I cooked mine over medium high heat.  Cook until you have some nice grill marks and the pineapple is getting soft, then flip over.  Baste the grilled side with teriyaki sauce, it doesn't take much.  Remember, we're just adding a little flavor, not drowning it.  When the bottom side is done grilling, flip the pineapple slice again and cook just long enough for the sugars in the teriyaki sauce to caramelize, about 1-2 minutes.  Baste the other side with teriyaki sauce and flip to cook that side another 1-2 minutes.  Serve hot as a side dish or put on a grilled burger--YUM!

Source:  A Mommy's Original recipe