This vibrant Grilled Pineapple Avocado Salad combines sweet, smoky pineapple with creamy avocado, crisp bell peppers, and fresh herbs for a refreshing tropical side dish that’s perfect for summer cookouts or light meals.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Grilled Pineapple Avocado Salad is a celebration of fresh, tropical flavors with a satisfying balance of sweetness, creaminess, and crunch. The caramelized notes from grilled pineapple pair beautifully with buttery avocado, while bell peppers add vibrant color and crisp texture. Tossed in a simple lime and olive oil dressing and finished with fresh cilantro, this salad is vegan, gluten-free, and incredibly versatile. It’s the perfect side dish for grilled meats, tacos, or seafood, and can easily be served as a light, wholesome lunch.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 cups pineapple chunks, grilled
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 green bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
- Grill the pineapple chunks for about 2–3 minutes per side, until lightly charred and caramelized. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the grilled pineapple, diced avocado, red and green bell peppers, and chopped cilantro.
- Drizzle with olive oil and lime juice. Toss gently to combine, being careful not to mash the avocado.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately or chill for 15–20 minutes before serving for a more refreshing presentation.
Servings and timing
Servings: 4 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 6 minutes
Total Time: 16 minutes
Calories: Approximately 190 kcal per serving
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeño or a dash of chili flakes for heat.
- Protein Boost: Top with grilled shrimp, chicken, or tofu for a more substantial dish.
- Herb Swap: Use fresh mint or basil instead of cilantro for a different herbal note.
- Citrus Twist: Substitute lime juice with orange or lemon juice for a sweeter or more tangy profile.
- Nut Crunch: Sprinkle with toasted almonds, cashews, or sunflower seeds for texture.
Storage/Reheating
This salad is best enjoyed fresh. If storing, place in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 1 day. To keep avocado from browning, toss it in lime juice and add it just before serving. Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the avocado and grilled fruit will degrade.
FAQs
Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?
Fresh is best for grilling, but canned pineapple rings (drained) can be used if fresh is unavailable.
How do I keep the avocado from browning?
Toss diced avocado with a bit of lime juice immediately after cutting and add just before serving.
Can I prepare this salad in advance?
Yes, grill the pineapple and chop the other ingredients ahead, then assemble just before serving.
Is this salad suitable for vegans?
Yes, it contains no animal products and is fully plant-based.
What type of avocado works best?
Use a ripe but firm avocado to maintain structure and avoid mushiness in the salad.
Can I add greens to make it a fuller salad?
Yes, toss with arugula, spinach, or mixed greens for a heartier salad.
What dishes pair well with this salad?
It pairs beautifully with grilled meats, tacos, seafood, or as part of a tropical-themed spread.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
How can I add more crunch?
Add sliced radishes, cucumber, or a handful of crushed tortilla chips for extra texture.
Can I make this salad spicy?
Yes, adding minced chili, hot sauce, or spicy salsa will give it a fiery kick.
Conclusion
Grilled Pineapple Avocado Salad is a fresh, flavorful dish that brings a touch of tropical sunshine to your table. With the smoky sweetness of grilled pineapple, the creamy richness of avocado, and the zing of lime and herbs, it’s a versatile side or light main perfect for summer meals, cookouts, or plant-based eating. Bright, healthy, and easy to prepare, this salad is sure to become a seasonal favorite.
PrintGrilled Pineapple Avocado Salad
This vibrant Grilled Pineapple Avocado Salad combines sweet, smoky pineapple with creamy avocado, crisp bell peppers, and fresh herbs for a refreshing tropical side dish that’s perfect for summer cookouts or light meals.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Total Time: 16 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Tropical
- Diet: Vegan
Ingredients
- 2 cups pineapple chunks, grilled
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 green bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat grill or grill pan and lightly oil the grates. Grill pineapple chunks until lightly charred, about 2–3 minutes per side.
- In a large bowl, combine grilled pineapple, diced avocado, red and green bell peppers, and chopped cilantro.
- Drizzle with olive oil and lime juice. Toss gently to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately or chilled.
Notes
- Use fresh lime juice for the best flavor.
- Chill ingredients before combining for a cold salad option.
- Add chopped jalapeño for a spicy kick.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 190 kcal
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg