As a kid, I thought I knew what pineapple was: It came out of a can in rings and went on the ham for Sunday dinner. Boy did I ever get a wake-up call when my family moved to Hawaii! Now, I consider myself a “pineapple person.” I still serve pineapple island-style, freshly sliced and plated with a beautiful edible flower, or in a tropical-style meal like Shrimp and Pineapple over Coconut Rice opens in a new tab or Shrimp and Pineapple Kabobs opens in a new tab.
Tofu Veggie Skewers with Pineapple Mango Jerk Sauce opens in a new tab
Although it’s a tropical fruit, pineapple is loved around the world. It’s often served with fish or meat, but it’s equally delicious with tofu or tempeh. (Try Tofu Veggie Skewers with Pineapple Mango Jerk Sauce opens in a new tab.) Fresh pineapple contains bromelain, an enzyme that helps digest protein. In marinades, it acts as a tenderizer. Canned pineapple is often used, but natural enzymes are destroyed by cooking and canning. When possible, choose fresh pineapple for best effect.
Fresh Pineapple Salsa opens in a new tab
Contrary to common belief, a pineapple’s external color does not indicate ripeness. That’s right. Ripening halts after harvest, and ours are picked at their peak. So, even green pineapples are ripe. (Yes, green!) Instead, choose fresh-looking pineapples with green leaves and a firm shell. And when in doubt, ask a Team Member for a taste.
Another thing to look for when picking your pineapple...the Whole Trade Guarantee seal. Whole Trade ensures that farms pay equitable wages and provide better working conditions. Every purchase of Whole Trade products helps fund projects such as new community centers, schools and homes for real people. Learn more about the workers, families and communities impacted by this program. opens in a new tab
Pineapple Slushies opens in a new tab
Here are a plethora of pineapple-pleasing tips and recipes:
Make fruit salads and smoothies like Pineapple Breeze Smoothie.
Keep the kids cool with Pineapple Slushies.
Add to leafy green salads. Pineapple and Water Chestnuts Lettuce Wraps is a creative variation!
Fill your house with enticing pineapple aroma by making this wonderful Cinnamon Roasted Pineapple with Macadamia Nut Cream.
Stuff tuna salad and pineapple chunks into pita bread, or make a Fresh Tuna Salad with Pineapple.
Add to ham salad, shrimp salad or chicken salad. Try our Firecracker Chicken Salad with Pineapple and Mango.
Grill pineapple rings. Make plenty for green salads and grain salads, or enjoy as a snack with your favorite cheese. Try Grilled Pineapple with Balsamic Honey Glaze too.
Pineapple Cucumber Gazpacho is a must-try for gazpacho guzzlers.
Add pineapple to chutney (Pineapple-Ginger Chutney with Macadamia Nuts) for garnishing fish or meats. Or if salsa is more your style, try Fresh Pineapple Salsa for tacos, tostados, and quesadillas. Quick and Easy Pineapple and Pork Tacos makes a good, simple meal.
Want a ham for Mother’s Day? Consider Honey-Glazed Ham with Fresh Pineapple Chutney.
Layer pineapple onto a burger like these Portobello and Pineapple Teriyaki Veggie Burgers.
Ham and Pineapple Pops are fun and delicious for parties.
Add pineapple to sandwiches with nut butter or cream cheese. Pineapple Breakfast Sandwich is a kid-pleasing option.
Enjoy a bowl of fresh pineapple as is, or with ice cream, frozen yogurt or favorite non-dairy dessert.
What’s your favorite way to eat pineapple? I’d love to know.
From pineapples and flowers to bell peppers and bananas, the Whole Trade® Guarantee opens in a new tab makes it easy for you to shop with a conscience. By providing better wages and working conditions, Whole Trade improves lives with every purchase. Look for the seal, and vote with your dollars.
