Grilled Watermelon and Pineapple Skewers with Honey-Lime Glaze & Yogurt Dip: Your Ultimate Summer Dessert
Ready to fire up the grill for a sensational, healthy, and incredibly easy summer dessert? Look no further than these vibrant Grilled Watermelon and Pineapple Skewers! With just a handful of simple ingredients and a delightful honey-lime glaze, these skewers are transformed into a caramelized fruit treat that’s perfect for any BBQ or gathering. Served with a wonderfully creamy and simple brown sugar yogurt sauce, they offer a refreshing and indulgent experience that will leave your taste buds singing.
Imagine the warm, sweet notes of grilled fruit mingling with a zesty citrus kick, all balanced by a cool, tangy dip. It’s the ultimate hassle-free dessert that shines after any meal, especially when paired with a homemade Pina Colada for that extra touch of tropical relaxation. Get ready to impress your guests and discover a whole new side to your favorite summer fruits!
The Unexpected Magic of Grilling Watermelon
For many, the idea of grilling watermelon might sound unconventional. I’ll admit, as a self-proclaimed foodie, I’ve always had a complicated relationship with watermelon due to its unique texture. It’s often too watery, too soft, or just doesn’t hit the right note for me, much like other melons. However, I stumbled upon a game-changing method that has completely revolutionized my perception of this quintessential summer fruit: grilling!
Grilling watermelon unlocks a deeper, more concentrated sweetness. The high heat from the grill causes some of its natural sugars to caramelize, giving it a richer, almost smoky flavor that you simply can’t achieve when eaten raw. Beyond the taste, the texture undergoes a remarkable transformation. Instead of being overly watery and sometimes bland, grilled watermelon becomes firmer, slightly denser, and incredibly succulent. It’s a texture that’s difficult to describe – perhaps “meatier” or “jammy” in the best possible way – but it’s utterly delightful and truly indescribable until you try it yourself. So, the next time you’re firing up the grill this summer, do your palate a huge favor and throw on these simple Grilled Watermelon Pineapple Skewers.
This recipe keeps the ingredient list minimal, focusing on the natural deliciousness of the fruit. We’re enhancing it with a simple yet effective honey-lime glaze. This sugary glaze not only aids in the caramelization process, creating those beautiful grill marks and a lovely slight char, but it also delivers a bright, refreshing punch of citrus from the lime. The acidity of the lime perfectly balances the sweetness of the fruit and honey, preventing it from being cloyingly sweet.
And let’s not forget about the sauce! Oh, the sauce! This isn’t just any dip; it’s a nostalgic, incredibly simple creation I learned from my grandfather. He had a secret for the best fruit dip: a combination of creamy yogurt (or sometimes sour cream) and rich brown sugar. Following in his footsteps, we’re adopting this brilliant, easy method to create a dip that complements the warm, grilled fruit skewers perfectly. The cool, tangy yogurt combined with the molasses notes of brown sugar adds another layer of flavor and texture that elevates this simple dessert to something truly special.
Gathering Your Simple Ingredients
One of the best aspects of these grilled fruit skewers is how few ingredients you need. Most of these are likely already in your kitchen, making this a spontaneous dessert option for any day of the week. Here’s what you’ll need to create this amazing dish:
- 1 cup cubed watermelon (fresh and ripe for the best flavor)
- 1 cup cubed pineapple (fresh or canned, just be sure to drain canned well)
- 2 Tbsp honey (adds sweetness and helps caramelize)
- 1 Tbsp lime juice (freshly squeezed is always best for that zesty kick)
- For the sauce: ½ cup plain Greek yogurt (for creaminess and tang)
- For the sauce: 1 Tbsp brown sugar (for a deep, sweet flavor in the dip)
Essential Kitchen Tools
To make the preparation and grilling process as smooth as possible, here are a few kitchen tools that you might find useful:
- Skewer sticks (bamboo or metal, soak bamboo skewers in water for 30 minutes before use to prevent burning)
- Grill pan or outdoor grill (choose based on your preference and weather)
- Pastry brush (essential for evenly applying the honey-lime glaze)
- Measuring cups and spoons (for precise ingredient measurements)
Why You’ll Absolutely Love These Grilled Fruit Skewers
Beyond their incredible flavor and ease of preparation, these Grilled Watermelon and Pineapple Skewers are a fantastic addition to any summer menu. They are incredibly versatile, appealing to a wide range of tastes, and offer a healthier alternative to many traditional desserts. This recipe truly transforms simple fruits into a gourmet experience with minimal effort.
Perfect for Any Summer Occasion
Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ, a casual picnic, or just enjoying a quiet evening at home, these skewers fit right in. Their vibrant colors make them an attractive centerpiece, and their individual portion sizes are ideal for serving a crowd. They’re mess-free, easy to handle, and provide a light, refreshing finish to any hearty summer meal. Plus, the interactive element of dipping them in the creamy yogurt sauce adds an extra layer of fun, making them a hit with both kids and adults.
Healthy, Refreshing, and Bursting with Flavor
In a world often filled with heavy, sugar-laden desserts, these fruit skewers stand out as a guilt-free indulgence. Watermelon is hydrating and rich in vitamins A and C, while pineapple provides a good dose of vitamin C and manganese, along with bromelain, an enzyme known for its anti-inflammatory properties. The natural sugars in the fruit are enhanced, not masked, by the light honey-lime glaze, making for a truly wholesome treat. It’s a dessert that satisfies your sweet tooth while still contributing to your daily fruit intake.
Expert Tips for Grilling Fruit Like a Pro
Achieving perfectly grilled fruit skewers is simple, but a few tips can help you get the best results every time. Follow these guidelines to ensure your watermelon and pineapple are grilled to sweet, caramelized perfection.
Choosing the Best Fruit
- Watermelon: Look for a watermelon that feels heavy for its size, indicating it’s full of water and ripe. A creamy yellow spot on the underside where it sat on the ground is also a good sign of ripeness.
- Pineapple: A ripe pineapple will have a sweet aroma at its base and will yield slightly when squeezed. The leaves should be green and easy to pull out. Avoid pineapples with soft spots or a fermented smell.
- Cutting: Ensure your fruit cubes are roughly the same size (about 1-inch pieces). This ensures even cooking on the grill.
Grilling Techniques for Optimal Flavor and Texture
- Preparation is Key: If using wooden skewers, remember to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before threading the fruit. This prevents them from burning on the grill.
- Preheat Your Grill: Whether you’re using an outdoor grill or a stovetop grill pan, make sure it’s preheated to medium-high heat. A hot grill is essential for getting those beautiful caramelization marks and preventing the fruit from sticking.
- Brush Liberally: Don’t be shy with the honey-lime glaze! Brush it generously over all sides of the fruit before and during grilling. This is what helps create that irresistible sweet, slightly sticky exterior.
- Watch Closely: Fruit grills quickly due to its high sugar content. Keep a close eye on your skewers, turning them every 2-3 minutes. You’re looking for slight char marks and a softened, caramelized appearance. Total grilling time will usually be between 5-10 minutes, depending on your grill’s heat.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Cook the skewers in batches if necessary to ensure there’s enough space between them on the grill. Overcrowding can lower the grill’s temperature and lead to steaming instead of grilling.
Crafting the Perfect Glaze and Dip
- Glaze Consistency: If your honey is too thick, gently warm it slightly before mixing with lime juice. This will make it easier to brush onto the fruit.
- Fresh Lime Juice: Always opt for fresh lime juice over bottled. The vibrant acidity and flavor are incomparable and crucial for balancing the sweetness.
- Yogurt Choice: Plain Greek yogurt is recommended for its thickness and tangy flavor. If you prefer a less tangy dip, a regular plain yogurt will also work, but you might want to adjust the brown sugar to taste.
- Customizing the Dip: Feel free to experiment with the dip! A tiny pinch of cinnamon, a drop of vanilla extract, or even a different type of sweetener like maple syrup could be delicious additions.
Serving Suggestions and Creative Variations
These grilled fruit skewers are fantastic on their own, but there are many ways to enjoy and customize them:
- With Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or sorbet alongside the warm skewers creates a delightful hot-cold contrast.
- Tropical Toppings: Sprinkle with shredded coconut, a few fresh mint leaves, or a pinch of chili-lime seasoning for an adventurous twist.
- Other Fruits: While watermelon and pineapple are a perfect pair, feel free to experiment with other grill-friendly fruits like peaches, mangoes, or even firm berries in a foil packet.
- Brunch Item: Serve them as part of a sweet brunch spread alongside pancakes or waffles.
Make-Ahead & Storage
You can cube the watermelon and pineapple a day in advance and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Prepare the honey-lime glaze and yogurt dip ahead of time too. However, it’s best to assemble and grill the skewers just before serving to enjoy them warm and freshly caramelized.
Leftover grilled fruit can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. They are still delicious cold, perhaps even added to a summer salad or yogurt parfait.
Frequently Asked Questions About Grilled Watermelon & Pineapple Skewers
- Can I make these skewers without a grill?
- Absolutely! A stovetop grill pan works wonderfully. You can also use a cast-iron skillet, though you might not get the same distinct grill marks. Just ensure the pan is hot and lightly oiled.
- What if I don’t have honey? Can I use another sweetener?
- Maple syrup or agave nectar can be good substitutes for honey in the glaze. They will still provide that touch of sweetness and help with caramelization.
- Is there an alternative to Greek yogurt for the dip?
- Sour cream or even a dairy-free yogurt alternative (like coconut or almond yogurt) can be used. Adjust brown sugar to taste based on the tartness of your chosen yogurt.
- How long do I need to grill the fruit?
- Grilling time is quite short, usually 2-5 minutes per side, for a total of 5-10 minutes. You’re looking for visible grill marks and a slight softening and caramelization of the fruit. Don’t overcook, or the fruit might become too mushy.
- Can I add other fruits to these skewers?
- Yes, definitely! Peaches, mangoes, bananas (sliced thick), and even strawberries (if grilled quickly) would be delicious additions. Just ensure all fruits are cut to a similar size for even cooking.
Find more summer-inspired recipes using fruit below!
- Raspberry Mango Popsicles
- Easy Pineapple Salsa
- Watermelon Pizza
- Easy Fruit Pizza
- Cream Cheese Fruit Dip
- Watermelon Malibu Slush
- Mint Watermelon Smoothie
- Strawberry Jello Salad
- Summer Fruit Crisp
- Watermelon Salad
This post originally published here on April 15, 2018. It has since been updated to provide more detailed information, tips, and an expanded recipe description for a better user experience.
Grilled Watermelon Pineapple Skewers
IMPORTANT – There are often Frequently Asked Questions within the blog post that you may find helpful. Simply scroll back up to read them!
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Ingredients
- 1 cup cubed watermelon
- 1 cup cubed pineapple
- 2 Tbsp honey
- 1 Tbsp lime juice
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 Tbsp brown sugar
Instructions
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Skewer fruit onto sticks. Combine honey and lime juice, then brush onto fruit.
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Grill skewers on the grill or on a medium/high heat stovetop grill pan until they begin to brown and caramelize some.
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Combine yogurt and brown sugar, and serve with warm skewers for dipping.
Nutrition
The recipes on this blog are tested with a conventional gas oven and gas stovetop. It’s important to note that some ovens, especially as they age, can cook and bake inconsistently. Using an inexpensive oven thermometer can assure you that your oven is truly heating to the proper temperature. If you use a toaster oven or countertop oven, please keep in mind that they may not distribute heat the same as a conventional full sized oven and you may need to adjust your cooking/baking times. In the case of recipes made with a pressure cooker, air fryer, slow cooker, or other appliance, a link to the appliances we use is listed within each respective recipe. For baking recipes where measurements are given by weight, please note that results may not be the same if cups are used instead, and we can’t guarantee success with that method.