Fruit | Vegan Gluten Free Low Calorie Mediterranean

Pineapple

Ananas comosus Allergen-Free
pineapple

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Bromeliaceae
  • Primary Cuisine Tropical, Southeast Asian
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Pineapple plant

The Forktionary Angle

"Tropical Delight: The Sweet and Tangy World of Pineapple"

Definition

A large, tropical fruit with a tough, spiky outer skin and sweet, juicy, yellow flesh, known for its unique sweet-tart flavor.

Sensory Profile

TasteSweet, Tart, Tangy, Juicy
TextureFibrous, Juicy, Crisp (fresh), Soft (cooked)
AromaSweet, Tropical, Fruity
AcidityMed-High

Technical Metrics

Culinary Versatility

Fresh Eating, Grilling, Baking, Juicing

Nutritional Benefit

Rich in Vitamin C and Bromelain

Storage for Ripening

Store at room temp, upside down for even ripening

Nutrition Facts

Per 112g (1 cup chopped)
Calories50 kcal
Total Fat0.1g
Saturated Fat0g
Trans Fat0g
Cholesterol0mg
Protein0.5g
Total Carbohydrate13g
Dietary Fiber1.4g
Total Sugars10g
Calcium13mg
Iron0.3mg
Potassium109mg

Chef’s Secret

To maximize juiciness, store ripe pineapple upside down for 30 minutes before cutting, allowing sugars to redistribute.

Substitutions

Best Match

Mango

1:1

Similar tropical sweetness and juiciness, though less tart and fibrous.

Papaya

1:1

Tropical flavor and soft texture, milder sweetness, less acidity.

Orange Segments

1:1

For tartness and juiciness in some contexts, but lacks the tropical depth.

Kiwi

1:1

Tangy and refreshing, but smaller and different texture. Also contains actinidain, a protein-digesting enzyme like bromelain.

Buying Guide

Choose pineapples that are heavy for their size, have a sweet aroma at the base, and firm leaves.

Flavor Pairings

Ham pork chicken coconut lime rum chili ginger cilantro.

Recipes Using Pineapple

Easy Easy Technique Dietary

Pink Stuff Cherry Pie Filling Pineapple Dessert

This incredibly easy holiday dessert (or is it a side dish? The debate is ongoing!) is a family favorite that's guaranteed to disappear fast. Bursting with the sweet taste of cherries and pineapple, this Pink Stuff miracle is ready in minutes and requires minimal effort. Perfect for potlucks, holiday gatherings, or a simple weeknight treat!

See Complete Recipe
Easy Occasion Inexpensive Easy

Cloud Nine

Escape to Cloud Nine with this light and fluffy pineapple salad! Sweet, creamy, and bursting with tropical flavor, this no-bake dessert is ready in minutes. Perfect for a hot day or a light and refreshing treat.

See Complete Recipe
4 Hours Or Less Preparation Main Ingredient Easy

2 Ingredient Pineapple Cake With Pineapple Sauce

Craving a delicious pineapple upside-down cake but watching your waistline? This unbelievably simple recipe from the American Heart Association delivers all the tropical pineapple flavor without the guilt! Made with just two main ingredients, this cake is incredibly moist and fragrant. The optional zesty pineapple sauce adds a burst of extra flavor and elevates this low-calorie dessert to the next level. Perfect for a quick weeknight treat or a healthy dessert option for any occasion.

See Complete Recipe
Cuisine Course North American Easy

Abbott Northwestern Station 63 Carrot Cake

Get ready to experience pure carrot cake bliss! This legendary recipe, originating from Abbott Northwestern Hospital's Station 63, isn't your average hospital fare. A nurse's secret recipe, this cake is unbelievably moist and delicious. The rave reviews are true! Make it a day ahead, chill it, and prepare for the most incredible carrot cake you've ever tasted. Trust us, the flavors deepen overnight!

See Complete Recipe
Cakes 3 Steps Or Less Weeknight Course

Almost Heaven

This incredibly easy and fast cake recipe is perfect for your next large gathering! A moist, pineapple-topped delight, finished with a creamy cheesecake pudding layer and whipped topping. Get ready for rave reviews!

See Complete Recipe
3 Steps Or Less Summer North American Appetizers

Aloha Dip

Escape to paradise with this vibrant and refreshing Aloha Dip! Perfect for summer parties, BBQs, or a casual weeknight snack, this creamy dip is always a crowd-pleaser. Traditionally served in a pineapple half for a stunning presentation, this recipe is easy to make and tastes even better chilled. Get ready for a taste of the islands!

See Complete Recipe
Independence Day St Patricks Day Fruit Dinner Party

Ambrosia With Acini Di Pepe

This vibrant and refreshing Ambrosia salad with acini di pepe (small pasta dots) is a crowd-pleasing dessert that's perfect for potlucks, holidays, or any summer gathering! This recipe features a delightful blend of sweet fruit, creamy textures, and a touch of playful color. Easily customizable for any occasion – add green food coloring for St. Patrick's Day or extra red for Valentine's Day! Make it ahead of time; the flavors meld beautifully overnight in the refrigerator, ensuring a delicious and memorable treat. Get ready for rave reviews!

See Complete Recipe
Course Course Cuisine One Dish Meal

Asian Style Ham Noodle Saladwhat To Do With Ham Leftovers

Transform leftover ham into a delicious and exciting Asian-inspired noodle salad! This recipe is a quick and easy way to use up leftover ham, creating a dish that's far more flavorful and impressive than simple sliced ham. The secret? A vibrant ginger-soy dressing that masks the ham's origin, leaving everyone wondering what your secret ingredient is. Perfect for a light lunch, weeknight dinner, or potluck contribution. Get ready for compliments!

See Complete Recipe
Time To Make Preparation Easy Meat

Aussie Lamb Chops Grilled

Experience the taste of Australia with these succulent grilled lamb chops! Marinated in a vibrant sweet and savory glaze, these chops are incredibly flavorful and easy to make. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe uses readily available ingredients and delivers restaurant-quality results in under an hour. Inspired by FoodDownUnder.com, this recipe highlights the rich flavor of Icelandic lamb.

See Complete Recipe
Main Ingredient Lunch Vegan North American

Balinese Rice Salad

Escape to Bali with this vibrant and refreshing rice salad! A quick and easy recipe (ready in 25 minutes!), perfect for a last-minute picnic, summer supper, or a light yet satisfying main course or side dish. Inspired by Moosewood's Daily Special cookbook, this recipe uses leftover rice to create a flavor explosion with sweet pineapple, crunchy veggies, and a zesty homemade dressing. Get ready for a taste of paradise!

See Complete Recipe
Course Bananas Preparation Main Ingredient

Banana Butter

Indulge in the creamy, dreamy deliciousness of homemade Banana Butter! This easy-to-make spread from c. C. Preserves is the perfect topping for scones, toast, or pound cake. Bursting with ripe banana flavor, it's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon treat. Get ready to elevate your teatime experience!

See Complete Recipe
Time To Make Served Cold Smoothies Low Sodium

Banana Pina Colada Smoothie

Escape to the tropics with this creamy, dreamy Banana Pina Colada Smoothie! A healthier twist on the classic cocktail, this recipe is packed with tropical flavor and naturally sweet banana. Perfect for a quick and nutritious breakfast or a refreshing anytime treat. Made with simple ingredients like coconut milk, coconut cream, and fresh pineapple, this smoothie is a delicious way to use up pantry staples. Get your taste buds ready for a vacation in a glass!

See Complete Recipe
Low In Something Course Preparation Time To Make

Banana Pineapple Cake

Indulge in this moist and delicious Banana Pineapple Upside-Down Cake! A coworker's secret recipe, this cake boasts the perfect blend of sweet banana and tangy pineapple, creating a truly unforgettable treat. Get ready for rave reviews!

See Complete Recipe
Pineapple Muffins Fruit 60 Minutes Or Less

Banana Pineapple Streusel Muffins

Tropical bliss in every bite! These Banana Pineapple Streusel Muffins combine the sweet goodness of ripe bananas and juicy pineapple, topped with a crunchy streusel topping. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a delightful snack. This recipe is easily adaptable – make muffins or two medium-sized loaves! Get ready for a taste of paradise.

See Complete Recipe
Presentation Served Cold Main Ingredient For Large Groups

Banana Split Dessert 4 Points Low Fat Low Sugar

Indulge in a guilt-free twist on the classic banana split! This lighter, healthier version is packed with delicious layers of creamy pudding, sweet bananas, and crunchy nuts, all while keeping it low-fat and low-sugar. Each serving boasts approximately 194 calories and only 6 grams of fat – that's roughly 4 Weight Watchers points! Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without the extra weight.

See Complete Recipe
Low Saturated Fat Low Fat 30 Minutes Or Less Healthy

Bear's Pineapple Mango Habanero Jam

Escape to the tropics with this explosive Pineapple Mango Habanero Jam! Sweet, juicy mangoes and pineapples dance with the fiery kiss of habanero peppers for a jam that's both incredibly flavorful and subtly spicy. Perfect for adding a kick to your breakfast toast, yogurt parfaits, or grilled meats. This easy recipe combines fresh tropical fruits with a touch of heat, creating a unique and unforgettable taste experience. Get ready for a flavor adventure!

See Complete Recipe
Healthy 4 Hours Or Less Easter Time To Make

Lenten Lentils Oaxacan Style

Transport your taste buds to Oaxaca, Mexico with this vibrant Lenten Lentils recipe! A traditional Oaxacan favorite, these luscious lentils boast a unique tropical flair thanks to the addition of pineapple, plantain, cloves, and allspice. The generous dose of garlic adds a delicious zip, perfectly complemented by crispy fried plantain slices as a garnish. This hearty and flavorful vegetarian dish is perfect for Lent or any time you crave a taste of sunshine.

See Complete Recipe
Occasion 3 Steps Or Less Apples Course

This That Cake

Craving a warm, gooey dessert? This That Cake is a delightful twist on the classic cherry dump cake, featuring a luscious combination of pineapple, brown sugar, and cake mix topped with toasted pecans and a buttery crunch. This easy recipe is perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or a cozy night in. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for the ultimate indulgence!

See Complete Recipe