Grilled peaches are a simple yet elegant dessert that captures the essence of summer. The caramelized sugars, combined with a hint of smokiness from the grill, elevate this fruit to new heights. Perfect for barbecues or a cozy evening at home, these grilled peaches can be served on their own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent finish.
Ingredients
– 4 ripe peaches
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– Pinch of salt
– Vanilla ice cream (optional)
– Chopped nuts for topping (optional)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is 10 minutes, and cooking time is 5-7 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 peach half) contains approximately 90 calories, 3g fat, 15g carbohydrates, 2g fiber, and 1g protein. This is based on one peach half without additional toppings.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
2. Cut the peaches in half and remove the pits.
3. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
4. Brush the peach halves with the olive oil mixture.
5. Place the peaches cut-side down on the grill.
6. Grill for about 4-5 minutes until grill marks appear.
7. Flip the peaches and grill for another 2-3 minutes.
8. Remove from the grill and let cool slightly.
9. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
10. Garnish with chopped nuts if desired.
Alternative Ingredients
If you prefer, you can substitute olive oil with melted butter or use honey for a sweeter glaze. You can also experiment with spices like nutmeg or cardamom for different flavor profiles.
Serving and Pairings
Grilled peaches are delightful on their own or can be paired with vanilla ice cream, yogurt, or a drizzle of honey. They also complement savory dishes like grilled meats or cheese platters.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover grilled peaches in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them on the grill or in a microwave before serving. They are best enjoyed fresh but can be frozen for later use.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using unripe peaches can result in a tough texture.
- Overcooking can lead to mushy peaches.
- Not preheating the grill may prevent proper caramelization.
- Skipping the oil mixture can lead to sticking on the grill.
- Choosing overly soft peaches can make handling difficult.
Helpful Tips
- Select firm, ripe peaches for the best results.
- Experiment with different toppings like mint or balsamic glaze.
- Use a grill basket for smaller pieces or slices.
- Try adding a sprinkle of sea salt for contrast.
FAQs
Can I use frozen peaches for grilling?
While fresh peaches are preferred, you can use frozen peaches. Thaw them completely and pat dry before grilling to avoid excess moisture.
What type of grill works best for peaches?
A gas or charcoal grill both work well. Ensure the grill is preheated to achieve those perfect grill marks.
Can I grill peaches indoors?
Yes, you can grill peaches on a stovetop grill pan. Just ensure proper ventilation to avoid smoke.
How do I know when peaches are ripe?
Ripe peaches should yield slightly to pressure and have a sweet aroma. Avoid hard or overly soft fruit.
What toppings go well with grilled peaches?
Toppings like yogurt, ice cream, honey, or nuts enhance the flavor and texture of grilled peaches.
Conclusion
Grilled peaches are a simple yet sophisticated dessert that showcases the beauty of summer fruit. Their sweet, smoky flavor makes them a versatile addition to any meal, whether served alone or with accompaniments. Enjoy this delightful treat at your next gathering!
Grilled Peaches
Ingredients
- 4 ripe peaches
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- Vanilla ice cream optional
- Chopped nuts for topping optional
Instructions
- Preheat your grill to medium heat.
- Cut the peaches in half and remove the pits.
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
- Brush the peach halves with the olive oil mixture.
- Place the peaches cut-side down on the grill.
- Grill for about 4-5 minutes until grill marks appear.
- Flip the peaches and grill for another 2-3 minutes.
- Remove from the grill and let cool slightly.
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Garnish with chopped nuts if desired.
