Choc-Dipped Pineapple Pops

Australian Pineapples Choc-Dipped Frozen Pineapple Pops

Great as an ice cream alternative for snacking on a hot day. Make and store in the freezer, and allow to thaw out for 5 minutes at room temperature before enjoying.

Ingredients
1 small pineapple, peeled
100g dark or milk chocolate, chopped
¼ cup chopped nuts or shredded coconut

Method
Cut pineapple in quarters lengthways, then again in half lengthways. Thread each pineapple piece onto a skewer.
Wrap pineapples in baking paper to prevent them from sticking together and getting freezer-burn. Freeze for 4-8 hours.
Melt chocolate and dip each pineapple skewer in the chocolate, or drizzle chocolate with a spoon over pineapple and sprinkle with nuts or coconut. Be quick as the chocolate will set quickly!
Enjoy immediately or pop back in the freezer to enjoy later – re-wrap in baking paper and store in a ziplock bag in the freezer for up to 6 months.

Australian Pineapples and Bacon Bites

Great for entertaining or adding a twist to an eggy breakfast. Make them with prosciutto for a posh version when entertaining if you wish, but bacon is just as tasty!

Cooking time: 15 minutes

Ingredients
1 small pineapple, peeled
24 slices rasher bacon or prosciutto
Tomato sauce or smoky barbecue sauce

Method
Preheat oven to 180C (160C fan-forced).
Cut pineapple in quarters lengthways, then again in half lengthways.
Chop each into 3 pieces. Wrap each with bacon or prosciutto and secure with a toothpick.
Place on a baking tray lined with baking paper.
Bake bacon-wrapped bites for 15 minutes, prosciutto-wrapped bites for 10 minutes.
Serve with a side of tomato or smoky barbecue sauce.

Australian Pineapples Add a Taste of Summer to Any Occasion At Any Time Of The Year

#EndlessAussieSummer
Aussie pineapples are available all year round, even during the winter months.
They add a taste of summer to any occasion at any time of year. Pineapples are very versatile and pair perfectly with fish, meat, your favourite desserts and other tropical fruit.

Growing Regions
Pineapples are mostly grown in Queensland. The major growing regions are south-east Queensland, the Yeppoon area and North Queensland.
A small number of pineapples are now grown in the Northern Territory.

Tops On Or Tops Off?
Pineapples with and without their crown are the same on the inside.
Some pineapples don't have their crown because some growers cut the tops off, so they can be planted for the next crop!

Tropical Immune Booster
Pineapples are an excellent source of vitamin C, important for a healthy, functioning immune system.
Pineapples also provide a good source of thiamin, magnesium and vitamin B6, which all act to keep the body healthy and functioning.

Good For The Guts
Bromelain is an interesting phytochemical found in pineapples, which has been shown to be anti-inflammatory and may have benefits for colon health.
Combined with the good fibre content, pineapples are a terrific food for keeping your gut healthy and happy.

How To Add A Taste Of Summer With Pineapple
EAT FRESH Pineapples are tasty enjoyed fresh, or can be added to a fruit salad for a taste of the tropics.
GRILL IT Throw a pineapple on the barbie for a sweet, caramelised treat, perfect on its own or a great tropical side that pairs perfectly with your favourite meats.
ADD TO CURRY Pineapple adds a sweet burst to spicy curries. Try stir some chopped pineapple in your next chicken curry for a warming taste of summer.
BAKE IT Pineapple and pork go together like the beach and summer. Team your Sunday roast pork with baked pineapple for a seriously sweet surprise.
TOAST IT Try popping some fresh pineapple in your next toasted sandwich with cheese and ham for a delicious snack that tastes just like a Hawaiian pizza.

How To Pick The Perfect Pineapple
The colour of a pineapple's skin naturally varies between summer and winter, but they're always ready to eat when they hit stores.
To help pick the perfect pineapple, check the fruit is free from soft spots or bruises and if it has the top that the leaves are fresh and green.
A pineapple should feel nice and heavy for its size.

Storing Your Tropical Treat
Pineapples can be left at room temperate for a couple of days, but are best eaten within 2-3 days of purchase.
You can refrigerate your pineapple whole or once cut in an airtight container to keep fresher for longer.