Grilled Pineapple Salsa (A la Plancha) — Bright, Fresh and Easy

This vibrant grilled pineapple salsa brings bright, fresh flavors to many dishes. It’s easy to prepare and so flavorful you can enjoy it straight from the bowl with a spoon. The pineapple is quickly seared on a well-seasoned cast iron skillet until caramelized and golden, adding a subtle smoky note to its natural sweetness.

Grilled pineapple caramelized on a skillet — **Grilling pineapple adds an earthy, smoky tone to its natural sweetness**

Why Grill Pineapple?

Grilling pineapple a la plancha—searing at high heat—concentrates its sugars and creates caramelized edges and light smokiness. This method takes only a minute per side on a hot, lightly oiled skillet, so the fruit remains juicy while gaining a beautiful golden crust. It’s a quick technique that builds texture and depth without added complexity.

Perfectly grilled pineapple wedges — **Perfectly grilled pineapple—dice and combine with the other ingredients**

Ingredients

Grilled Pineapple Salsa: grilled pineapple (a la plancha), jicama, garlic, purple scallion (or onion), lime juice, chipotle peppers, ground chiles and a pinch of sea salt. Optional additions include mango, tomatoes, or fresh herbs for extra brightness.

Sliced pineapple wedges ready for searing — **Cut half a pineapple into triangular wedges for searing**

Quick Method

1. Prepare the pineapple: Cut half a pineapple into wedges or rings, then lightly sprinkle both sides with about 1 1/2 teaspoons of sugar to promote caramelization.

2. Heat the skillet: Add a thin coating of oil to a hot, seasoned cast iron skillet. The pan should be very hot to achieve a quick sear.

3. Sear the pineapple: Place the sugared pineapple pieces in the skillet and sear for about one minute per side. You want golden caramelization but not overcooking—keep the fruit juicy.

Lightly sugared pineapple wedges on a skillet — **Lightly sprinkle sugar on both sides of the wedges—just 1 1/2 teaspoons total**

4. Dice and combine: Once the pineapple is cooled slightly, dice it and mix with finely diced jicama, minced garlic, chopped purple scallion (or onion), fresh lime juice, chopped chipotle peppers, a pinch of ground chiles and sea salt. Stir gently to combine.

Diced grilled pineapple mixed into salsa — **Dice the grilled pineapple, add the other ingredients, stir—and it’s ready**

Serving Suggestions

This grilled pineapple salsa pairs beautifully with grilled or roasted proteins—fish, chicken, pork—or spooned over tacos and nachos. It also works as an uplift for salads or a bright condiment for rice bowls. Adjust heat and sweetness to taste by varying the amount of chipotle and lime, or add mango or fresh herbs for a different twist.

Enjoy this fresh, versatile salsa—simple to make and full of flavor.
Karen