Grilled peaches with honey and mascarpone are a sweet summer treat! The juicy peaches get a nice char on the grill, making them even tastier.
Top them off with creamy mascarpone and a drizzle of honey, and you’ve got a dessert that’s simple and oh-so-delicious! Perfect for impressing guests or just treating yourself! 🍑
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Ripe peaches are key for this dish as they become sweet and juicy when grilled. If peaches aren’t in season, try nectarines or plums; they can also work beautifully with grilling.
Olive Oil: I recommend extra virgin olive oil for its rich flavor. If you’re looking for a different taste, a mild-flavored oil like avocado or sunflower oil can work as a substitute.
Honey: For a floral sweetness, traditional honey is perfect. If you’re vegan or looking for a different flavor, agave nectar or maple syrup are great alternatives.
Mascarpone Cheese: This cheese adds a creamy texture. If you can’t find mascarpone, a thick cream cheese or ricotta can be a tasty substitute, but it will alter the flavor slightly.
Fresh Thyme: Fresh thyme adds a lovely herbaceous note. For convenience, you can use dried thyme, just use less since it’s more potent. Basil or mint could also work if you want a fresh twist.
How Do You Grill Peaches Without Them Sticking?
Grilling peaches can be tricky since they’re delicate and can stick. To avoid this, brush them with olive oil before placing them on the grill. This not only prevents sticking but also adds flavor.
- Make sure your grill is preheated properly to medium-high. This helps create a nice sear and prevents sticking.
- Place the peaches cut-side down first; the sugars in the peach caramelize, giving a lovely flavor.
- Keep an eye on them, as grilling time can vary. If they begin to soften and have nice grill marks, they’re ready to come off.
These tips can help ensure your grilling experience is successful, and your peaches come out delicious! Enjoy your dessert!
Grilled Peaches with Honey and Mascarpone
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For Grilling:
- 4 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For Topping:
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 cup mascarpone cheese
- Fresh thyme leaves (for garnish)
- Ground cinnamon (for garnish)
- Salt (a pinch, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dessert takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 6 minutes to grill the peaches. You’ll have a total of 16 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and delicious treat for any occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Grill:
First, let’s fire up the grill! Preheat it to medium-high heat. This will get it ready for the peaches and ensure they cook evenly.
2. Preparing the Peaches:
While the grill is heating, take your peach halves and brush the cut sides with olive oil. This not only prevents sticking but adds a lovely flavor as they grill.
3. Grilling the Peaches:
Carefully place the peaches cut-side down on the grill. Grill them for about 4-6 minutes. You want to see those beautiful grill marks and the peaches should start to soften.
4. Warming the Honey:
While the peaches are grilling, grab a small saucepan. Pour in the honey and warm it over low heat. Stir occasionally until it’s nice and fluid. Alternatively, you can microwave it for just a few seconds to warm it up!
5. Assembling the Dish:
Once the peaches have finished grilling, take them off the grill and place them cut-side up on a serving dish. Now, it’s time to add some delicious mascarpone cheese! Spoon a generous dollop into the center of each peach half.
6. Finishing Touches:
Drizzle the warm honey over the grilled peaches and mascarpone, making sure every bite gets that sweetness. Next, sprinkle fresh thyme leaves and a dash of ground cinnamon on top. If you like, add a tiny pinch of salt to elevate the flavors.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve these grilled peaches warm as a delightful dessert or a sweet treat! Enjoy the amazing combination of flavors and the simple pleasure of this dish!
Can I Use Other Fruits Instead of Peaches?
Absolutely! Grilled nectarines, plums, or even pineapples can work wonderfully in this recipe. Just keep in mind that different fruits may have varying cooking times, so adjust the grilling time accordingly until they are softened and have nice grill marks.
What Can I Substitute for Mascarpone Cheese?
If you don’t have mascarpone cheese, you can use cream cheese mixed with a bit of heavy cream to achieve a similar texture. You might also consider using ricotta cheese for a lighter option, just be sure to drain any excess moisture for the best results!
How Should I Store Leftover Grilled Peaches?
To store leftovers, let the peaches cool down and then place them in an airtight container in the fridge. They can be kept for up to 2 days. When ready to enjoy them again, you can eat them cold or gently warm them in the microwave for a few seconds to bring back their delightful flavors.
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the peaches and even warm the honey ahead of time. Just grill the peaches right before serving to enjoy them at their best. For the mascarpone, you can keep it chilled until ready to serve. Enjoy the warm peaches and cool mascarpone together for a delicious contrast!
