Caramelized Pineapple Salsa
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Total Time: 18 minutes
Servings: About 2 cups (serves 4–6)
Ingredients
2 cups fresh pineapple, diced small
1 tablespoon coconut oil (or butter)
2 tablespoons honey
½ small red onion, finely diced
1 small red chili or jalapeño, minced (remove seeds for less heat)
¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Juice of 1 lime
Pinch of sea salt
Optional: ½ teaspoon smoked paprika or chili powder for depth
Instructions
Caramelize the Pineapple
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Melt coconut oil, then add diced pineapple and a drizzle of honey.
Cook, stirring occasionally, until pineapple turns golden and sticky around the edges — about 5–7 minutes.
Cool Slightly
Transfer pineapple to a mixing bowl and let cool for 3–5 minutes so herbs stay fresh when added.
Combine Ingredients
Stir in red onion, chili/jalapeño, cilantro, lime juice, sea salt, and optional smoked paprika or chili powder.
Taste & Adjust
Add extra lime for brightness, salt for balance, or chili for heat.
Serve & Store
Serve immediately over tacos, grilled chicken, shrimp, or fish.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Big Flavor in Minutes – Caramelizing pineapple takes less than 10 minutes but transforms it into something special.
Versatile – Use it as a taco topping, a grilled meat garnish, or a dip for chips.
Fresh & Whole Food–Friendly – With just a handful of fresh ingredients, it’s naturally gluten-free and can be refined sugar–free.
Crowd-Pleaser – Sweet with just a hint of heat — even salsa skeptics love it.
Serving Ideas
Spoon over grilled salmon or mahi-mahi for a restaurant-style dinner at home.
Use as a fresh topping for carnitas tacos or jerk chicken wraps.
Add to a grain bowl with brown rice, black beans, and avocado for a hearty lunch.
Serve as a side dip with salty tortilla chips.
Pro Tips
Choose ripe pineapple — The sweeter the fruit, the better the caramelization.
Adjust heat level — Keep seeds in the chili for a fiery kick, or remove them for mild spice.
Make ahead — Prep it a few hours before serving to let the flavors mingle.
Bringing It Home
This Caramelized Pineapple Salsa is proof that salsa doesn’t have to be predictable. Whether you’re elevating your taco night, adding tropical flair to grilled chicken, or just looking for a fresh party appetizer, this sweet-and-spicy combo delivers. One taste, and you’ll want to put it on everything.
