FOR GRILLED DISHES
The Piña Colada Marinade brings the delightful flavors of a tropical cocktail to your grilled fruits. Combining the rich essence of rum, the sweetness of pineapple juice, and the creamy richness of coconut, this marinade is a perfect complement to a variety of fruits, turning them into a sensational treat on the grill.
The combination of rum and pineapple juice adds a subtly tangy and fruity note, while the cream of coconut introduces a smooth, indulgent creaminess that balances out the flavors. The touch of vegetable oil helps to bind the marinade and ensures that the fruits don’t stick to the grill while achieving that perfect caramelized char.
When marinating your fruits in this Piña Colada concoction, you’re essentially infusing them with the essence of a tropical getaway. The rum provides a distinct warmth and depth, while the pineapple juice brings a refreshing zing that brightens up the natural sweetness of the fruits. This marinade works particularly well with fruits like pineapple, mango, papaya, and even bananas.
As you marinate your fruits, you’ll notice how the flavors meld together, creating a harmonious balance that transforms the ordinary into something extraordinary. Whether you’re grilling these fruits as a side dish, dessert, or a topping for other dishes, the Piña Colada Marinade adds a touch of paradise to your meal. Just a short marination time of around 15 minutes allows the flavors to penetrate the fruits, and the result is a delicious treat that captures the essence of a tropical vacation right in your backyard.
MAKES: ABOUT 1 CUP
INGREDIENTS:
- ½ cup light, dark, or spiced rum
- ½ cup unsweetened pineapple juice
- 2 tablespoons canned cream of coconut, such as Coco Lopez
- 2 teaspoons vegetable oil or sunflower oil
INSTRUCTIONS:
- Whisk together all of the ingredients in a small bowl.
- Pour the mixture over fruit and marinate at room temperature for about 15 minutes prior to cooking.
SPICING TIP:
- Various complementary fruit juices and nectars can be used to moisten fruit destined for the grill. Among the many options, we particularly like verjus (or verjuice), a refreshingly tart grape juice often made by wineries, and sold in some retail stores and online. The sweeter and more syrupy the juice, the more you may want to balance it with a little neutral vegetable oil or melted butter.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS:
- Grilled Fruit Skewers: Thread marinated fruit pieces onto skewers and grill them for a few minutes on each side until they have beautiful grill marks. Serve the skewers as a fun and visually appealing appetizer or dessert.
- Grilled Fruit Salad: Grill a mix of marinated fruits such as pineapple, mango, and papaya. Toss them with some fresh mint or basil leaves, and drizzle with a bit of the marinade for a vibrant and refreshing fruit salad.
- Tropical Dessert Toppings: Top your favorite desserts like ice cream, yogurt parfaits, or pound cake with the grilled fruits marinated in the Piña Colada blend. The caramelized flavors of the fruits will complement the sweetness of the desserts.
- Grilled Pineapple Rings: Slice pineapple into rings, marinate them in the Piña Colada Marinade, and grill until they are caramelized and slightly charred. Serve these as a side dish to grilled meats or as a stand-alone treat.
- Fruit Bruschetta: Toast slices of baguette on the grill and spread a layer of cream cheese or mascarpone cheese. Top with the marinated grilled fruits and a drizzle of the marinade for an elegant appetizer.
- Stuffed Grilled Bananas: Cut bananas lengthwise and stuff them with a mix of chopped nuts, shredded coconut, and a sprinkle of brown sugar. Drizzle with the Piña Colada Marinade and grill until the bananas are tender and the filling is toasted.
- Fruit Tacos: Fill soft tortillas with grilled marinated fruits and a dollop of Greek yogurt or whipped cream. Add a sprinkle of toasted coconut for extra crunch and tropical flair.
- Fruit Sundaes: Create a unique dessert by layering the grilled fruits with ice cream or frozen yogurt. Drizzle with a bit of the marinade for a burst of flavor.
