Grilled Pineapple with Agave Nectar and Coconut Flakes
Okay, I have mentioned in the past that when I make something particularly delicious my husband gives me a huge smile and a high five after his first bite. Well, today I was ready to give myself a high five.
I tell you why…
…I typically get home from work around 7pm and even though it’s late, I want to have a nice meal with the hubby. My problem is that I am usually SOOOOO hungry that I gnosh my way through my cabinets before dinner is ready. To alleviate this problem I need to make something quick and easy.
On my way to work I stopped and picked up a pineapple. Basically because it was on sale for $1.99. So after work, I poured myself a glass of red wine (or two) and decided that I wanted to grill my pineapple. I took a moment to reflect on my Maple Ginger Salmon and how deliciously caramelized it turned out because of the maple syrup that was put on top. Well why can’t I do that with pineapple!? I didn’t have any maple syrup or honey left (gasp!) but I definitely have some agave nectar on hand, which is a similar consistency to honey so I was happy. Time for some grilled fruit!!
Agave nectar resembles honey in its consistency but is more water soluble. It is actually derived from the tequila plant and is a natural sweetener that many use for their baking, hot beverages, and so on as a substitute for processed sugar. I recently bought it from Trader Joe’s and will never look back. (Thanks, Nikki!)
If you happen to find Agave Nectar (otherwise known as Agave Syrup) in the organic section of your local grocery store or at your local Trader Joe’s or Whole Foods, you’ll be pleasantly surprised. It’s not super sweet in flavor but has a distinct presence in dishes and drinks.
If you can’t find Agave Nectar, honey works just as well in this recipe. 
)
My grilled pineapple took all of 10 minutes and was so unbelievably juicy and sweet that I wish I had bought TWO!
Grilled Pineapple with Agave Nectar and Coconut Flakes
(Serves 4-6)
Ingredients:
1 Tbs. Extra Virgin Olive Oil
1 pineapple, trimmed, cored, and sliced into 1/2-inch slices
4 Tbs. agave nectar or honey
1 tsp. lime or lemon juice
freshly cracked pepper
Coconut flakes, to garnish
Directions:
Add oil to indoor grill pan and place on high heat.
Mix nectar or honey, lemon/lime juice, and pepper in a small bowl. Brush on both sides of sliced pineapple.
Grill for 3-5 minutes or until grill marks appear. Flip pineapple and repeat. Make sure not to overcook otherwise pineapple will fall apart.
Garnish with coconut flakes.
