Grilled Peaches

Grilled peaches are a delightful summer treat that can elevate any meal. These juicy fruits are grilled until tender and caramelized, then enhanced with a brush of cinnamon honey. Perfect for gatherings, they serve as an easy side dish or dessert option, bringing both flavor and elegance to your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 10 minutes from start to finish, making it a hassle-free option for busy summer days.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of grilled peaches and cinnamon honey creates a sweet and smoky profile that is hard to resist.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve them as a side dish at barbecues or as a dessert with ice cream; the possibilities are endless!
• Healthy Choice: With only 113 calories per serving, these grilled peaches provide a guilt-free indulgence.
• Impressive Presentation: The beautiful grill marks and glistening honey make this dish visually stunning, perfect for entertaining guests.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the grilling process, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will make cooking more efficient and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill pan or outdoor grill
• Basting brush
• Small bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill pan or outdoor grill: Allows for even cooking and creates those desirable char marks on the peaches.
• Basting brush: Perfect for applying the cinnamon honey mixture evenly over the warm peaches.
• Knife & Cutting board: Essential for cutting the peaches safely and efficiently.

Ingredients

These grilled peaches are seared on the grill until tender and caramelized, then brushed with cinnamon honey for a sweet finish. A super easy side dish or dessert option that’s great for summer entertaining!

For the Grilled Peaches

• 4 peaches (ripe but firm)
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 1/2 tablespoons honey
• pinch of cinnamon

How to Make Grilled Peaches

Step 1: Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill pan or outdoor grill to medium heat. This ensures even cooking and proper caramelization of the peaches.

Step 2: Prepare the Peaches

1. Cut each peach in half carefully using a knife.
2. Remove the pits from each peach half.
3. Brush each peach half with vegetable oil to prevent sticking during grilling.

Step 3: Grill the Peaches

1. Place the peach halves cut-side down on the grill.
2. Grill for 3-5 minutes until dark grill marks appear.
3. Rotate the peaches halfway through grilling to achieve cross-hatched marks.

Step 4: Add Cinnamon Honey

1. In a small bowl, mix together honey and a pinch of cinnamon.
2. Once grilled, brush this mixture over the warm peaches generously.
3. Serve immediately while still warm for the best flavor experience!

How to Serve Grilled Peaches

Grilled peaches are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re looking for a sweet dessert or a unique side dish, these peach halves can elevate any meal.

With Ice Cream

• Top warm grilled peaches with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic dessert.

On Salad

• Slice the grilled peaches and add them to a mixed greens salad for a fresh, sweet touch.

With Yogurt

• Serve the peaches with Greek yogurt and a drizzle of honey for a healthy breakfast or snack.

As a Topping

• Use grilled peaches as a topping on pancakes or waffles for an indulgent brunch option.

In Parfaits

• Layer grilled peaches with granola and yogurt in a glass for an attractive and tasty parfait.

How to Perfect Grilled Peaches

Perfecting grilled peaches is easy with these helpful tips. Follow these suggestions to ensure your peaches are tender and flavorful.

• Choose ripe but firm peaches: This ensures they hold their shape while grilling and won’t turn mushy.
• Preheat the grill properly: A medium heat allows the peaches to caramelize without burning.
• Oil the grill grates: This prevents sticking and helps achieve those beautiful grill marks.
• Monitor cooking time: Grill the peaches for 3-5 minutes, turning them halfway through to get even marks.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Peaches

Grilled peaches pair wonderfully with many side dishes, adding sweetness and flavor to your meal. Here are some fantastic options to enjoy alongside your grilled fruit.

1. Quinoa Salad: A nutty quinoa salad with fresh herbs complements the sweetness of the peaches.
2. Grilled Corn on the Cob: The smokiness of grilled corn enhances the flavors of grilled peaches.
3. Balsamic Glazed Asparagus: The tanginess of balsamic asparagus creates a delicious contrast.
4. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil provide a refreshing balance to sweet peaches.
5. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness pairs perfectly with caramelized grilled peaches.
6. Spinach and Feta Salad: The salty feta adds depth to the light sweetness of the grilled fruit.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Grilling peaches can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Overripe Peaches: Using peaches that are too soft can lead to mushy results on the grill. Choose peaches that are ripe but still firm for the best texture.
• Skipping the Oil: Not brushing your peaches with oil can cause them to stick to the grill. Always use a bit of vegetable oil on the cut sides before grilling for easy removal.
• Ignoring Temperature: Grilling at too high or too low temperatures can ruin your grilled peaches. Aim for medium heat to achieve the perfect caramelization without burning.
• Rushing the Grill Time: Don’t rush the grilling process; cooking for only a short time may not yield those beautiful grill marks. Grill each peach half for 3-5 minutes, rotating halfway through.
• Neglecting Flavor Enhancements: Skipping the cinnamon honey glaze can leave your peaches tasting bland. Always brush on the honey-cinnamon mixture right after grilling for added sweetness and flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
• Grilled peaches can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Grilled Peaches

• Freeze grilled peaches in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating Grilled Peaches

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place peaches on a baking sheet and warm for about 5-10 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate, heat in 30-second intervals until warm, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Warm in a non-stick skillet over low heat, turning occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about grilled peaches that may help you get the most out of this delicious treat.

Can I use different fruits instead of peaches?

Absolutely! Grilled nectarines, plums, or even pineapple can work well. Just adjust grilling times as needed.

How do I know when my grilled peaches are done?

Look for dark grill marks and a tender texture. They should be warm and slightly caramelized on the outside.

What can I serve with grilled peaches?

Grilled peaches pair wonderfully with vanilla ice cream, yogurt, or even as a topping for pancakes or waffles.

Can I make grilled peaches ahead of time?

Yes! You can grill them ahead and store them in the fridge. Just reheat before serving for the best taste.

Are grilled peaches healthy?

Yes! They are low in calories and packed with vitamins. Plus, they’re naturally sweet, making them a great dessert option.

Final Thoughts

Grilled peaches are not only simple to prepare but also versatile enough to serve as a side dish or dessert. Their natural sweetness and caramelized flavor make them an irresistible treat during summer gatherings. Feel free to customize this recipe by adding different spices or toppings like nuts or whipped cream. Give it a try, and elevate your summer menu!