When the days grow longer and the spring ingredients start to arrive, one tropical favorite begins to steal the spotlight: pineapple. Pineapple season typically peaks from March through July, though in some regions it can extend into early fall. During this time, the fruit is at its sweetest, juiciest, and most vibrant, perfect for adding to various recipes.
More About Pineapples
Native to South America and later cultivated extensively in places like Hawaii, Costa Rica, and Philippines, pineapple thrives in warm, tropical climates. Thanks to modern growing regions around the world, it’s available year-round but true pineapple season brings peak flavor and natural sweetness that simply tastes like sunshine.
Health Benefits
Beyond its bold, refreshing taste, pineapple is packed with vitamin C, antioxidants, and bromelain, an enzyme known for its digestive benefits. Its balance of sweetness and acidity makes it incredibly versatile too, allowing you to bake and grill it.
As pineapple season begins, it’s the perfect time to embrace this golden fruit at its best with these recipes.
Pineapple Recipes for Springtime
Grilled Pork Chops with Grilled Pineapple
One of our favorite ways of serving Pineapple after giving it a moment on the grill. The bit of char adds a smokiness to this sweet fruit that cannot be beat. To match, we’re adding on a pair of Grilled Pork Chops and a Grilled Peach salad on the side.
Strawberry Pineapple Agua Fresca
Head to your local farmers market to grab the ingredients to make your own agua fresca at home. Let the warm weather in with this refreshing drink that uses fresh fruit, sparkling water, and a bit of honey. Plus pineapple and strawberry blend well for their differing profiles of tangy and sugary.
Bacon Wrapped Scallops with Mango and Pineapple Salsa
Scallops are one of the best seafood mains for mixing with other ingredients with it’s subtle taste that takes on whatever it’s cooked with. We wrap tender scallops in crispy bacon and serve atop a pineapple and mango salsa with a bit of spicy jalapeño.
Cranberry Pineapple Upside Down Cake
While you could rely on canned pineapple slices atop this decadent and moist upside down cake, we think cutting the slices from a whole pineapple makes it so much better. Brown sugar, butter, and cranberries finish things off so you can feel good about the dessert you’re serving.
Grilled Swordfish with Pineapple Salsa
Salsa doesn’t have to have tomatoes. Instead, substitute in pineapple for something different and tropical. Then mix in jalapeño peppers, red onion, bell peppers, herbs, and balsamic vinegar. This dresses up your swordfish without overwhelming it.
Salmon With Pineapple Mango Salsa
In case you prefer salmon over swordfish and don’t mind savoring another springtime favorite, try this dish for one of your weeknight dinners. The pineapple mango salsa here brings island flavors to a fresh fillet of salmon.
Story by Kylie Thomas
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