Grilled Pineapple & Jalapeño Salsa Recipe
Why Grilled Pineapple & Jalapeño Salsa?
Grilling the pineapple brings out its natural sweetness and adds a slight caramelization that pairs beautifully with the heat of the jalapeños. The contrast of sweet, spicy, and smoky flavors makes this salsa a versatile dish that’s perfect for summer BBQs or adding something special to any meal. Plus, it’s super easy to make and only takes a few minutes on the grill!
Grilling smaller items like pineapple slices and jalapeños is a breeze with the right tools. Using the Braize Grill Baskets ensures your ingredients don’t slip through the grill grates and allows for easy flipping and even grilling. While these baskets aren’t necessary, they make the process smoother and help you get that perfect char on your fruits and veggies.
Grilled Pineapple & Jalapeño Salsa Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 whole pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into rings
- 2 jalapeños, halved and seeded
- 1/4 red onion, finely diced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions:
Preparing the Pineapple and Jalapeños
Brush the pineapple rings and jalapeño halves with olive oil to prevent sticking and ensure a nice char. The olive oil also enhances the smoky flavor as they grill. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper for extra flavor.
Prepping Your Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking. A hot grill will help caramelize the pineapple and char the jalapeños, adding that smoky flavor we’re looking for.
Grilling the Pineapple & Jalapeños
Place the pineapple rings and jalapeño halves in the Grill Baskets or directly on the grates. Grill the pineapple for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until you see nice grill marks and the pineapple is slightly caramelized. Grill the jalapeños for about 2-3 minutes per side, until they’re charred and softened.
Assembling the Salsa
Once the pineapple and jalapeños are grilled to perfection, remove them from the grill and let them cool slightly. Dice the pineapple into bite-sized chunks and finely chop the jalapeños. In a large bowl, combine the grilled pineapple, jalapeños, diced red onion, and fresh cilantro. Squeeze the lime juice over the salsa and toss everything together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
The first time I made this salsa, I was blown away by how the grilled pineapple added a sweet depth of flavor that balanced perfectly with the heat from the jalapeños. It’s become one of my go-to summer recipes because it’s so simple yet packed with bold flavors. Whether you’re grilling for a crowd or just want to switch up your taco night, this salsa always delivers!
Serving Suggestions
This Grilled Pineapple & Jalapeño Salsa is incredibly versatile! Serve it with tortilla chips as a snack or appetizer, or use it as a topping for tacos, grilled chicken, pork, or fish. It also works great as a side dish for your next BBQ, adding a fresh, flavorful twist to any meal.
FAQs
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Can I use canned pineapple for this recipe?
- Fresh pineapple is best for grilling, but if you use canned pineapple rings, make sure to drain and pat them dry before grilling.
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How spicy is this salsa?
- The spice level depends on the jalapeños. For less heat, remove the seeds and membranes. If you like it extra spicy, you can leave some seeds in or add another jalapeño!
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What else can I add to this salsa?
- Try adding diced avocado, grilled corn, or even a little mango for extra sweetness and texture.
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Can I make this salsa ahead of time?
- Yes! You can grill the pineapple and jalapeños ahead of time and assemble the salsa just before serving. It keeps well in the fridge for up to two days.
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What can I serve this salsa with?
- It pairs perfectly with grilled meats like chicken or pork, fish tacos, or simply with tortilla chips as a refreshing snack.
Ready to spice up your next meal?
Grilled Pineapple & Jalapeño Salsa is the perfect mix of sweet, smoky, and spicy flavors that can elevate any dish. With just a few fresh ingredients and a quick grill, you can create a salsa that’s packed with bold flavors and is sure to impress.
Try this Grilled Pineapple & Jalapeño Salsa and share your creations with us on social media @CookingWithBraize. We’d love to see how you enjoy this sweet and spicy salsa!