Name: Grilled Pineapple Salad + Creamy Citrus Dressing
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh pineapple, sliced into rings or chunks; 4 cups mixed greens; 1 cucumber, sliced; 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced; 1 avocado, sliced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 cup Greek yogurt; 1/4 cup orange juice; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 tablespoon honey; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; 1 clove garlic, minced

I love making this grilled pineapple salad when I want something fresh with a hint of smoky sweetness. The caramelized pineapple pairs perfectly with crisp greens and a creamy citrus dressing that adds a bright, tangy finish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I enjoy how this salad combines sweet, savory, and tangy flavors all in one dish. The grilled pineapple brings a warm, juicy element that makes the salad feel more special than a typical cold salad. I also like how versatile it is, whether I serve it as a side or a light main dish.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

fresh pineapple, sliced into rings or chunks
mixed greens
cucumber, sliced
red onion, thinly sliced
avocado, sliced
olive oil
salt
black pepper
Greek yogurt
orange juice
lemon juice
honey
Dijon mustard
garlic, minced

Directions

I start by preheating a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. I lightly brush the pineapple slices with olive oil and place them on the grill. I cook them for a few minutes on each side until I see grill marks and the pineapple becomes slightly caramelized.

While the pineapple cools slightly, I prepare the salad base by combining mixed greens, cucumber, red onion, and avocado in a large bowl.

In a separate bowl, I whisk together Greek yogurt, orange juice, lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic until smooth and creamy.

I cut the grilled pineapple into bite-sized pieces and add it to the salad. Then I drizzle the creamy citrus dressing over everything and gently toss to combine.

I season with a pinch of salt and pepper and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

I usually make about 4 servings from this recipe. Preparation takes around 15 minutes, and grilling takes about 10 minutes, so the total time is approximately 25 minutes.

Variations

I sometimes add grilled chicken or shrimp to make the salad more filling. When I want extra crunch, I sprinkle toasted nuts or seeds on top. I also like adding feta cheese or goat cheese for a creamy, salty contrast.

Storage/reheating

I store the salad and dressing separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. I prefer assembling it fresh to keep the greens crisp. If I have leftover grilled pineapple, I keep it chilled and add it just before serving.

FAQs

Can I use canned pineapple?

I prefer fresh pineapple for grilling, but I sometimes use canned slices if I pat them dry first.

What if I don’t have a grill?

I often use a grill pan or even a regular pan on the stove to get a similar caramelized effect.

Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

I like to prepare the dressing in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Is this salad good as a main dish?

I often turn it into a main dish by adding protein like chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas.

Can I make it dairy-free?

I sometimes replace the Greek yogurt with a dairy-free alternative or use a vinaigrette instead.

Conclusion

I find this grilled pineapple salad with creamy citrus dressing to be a refreshing and flavorful dish that stands out. The balance of smoky, sweet, and tangy elements makes it a recipe I enjoy coming back to, especially during warmer days.