Grilled peaches with honey and mascarpone make for a sweet and juicy treat! The warm peaches caramelize on the grill, bringing out their natural flavors, topped with creamy mascarpone and a drizzle of honey.
Honestly, who knew fruit could taste like a summer party on a plate? I serve these beauties at cookouts, and everyone wants the recipe. They’re just that good! 🍑🍯
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Ripe peaches are the star ingredient here. They should be slightly soft to the touch. If peaches aren’t in season, try nectarines or even plums for a similar sweet flavor and texture.
Olive Oil: I like using extra virgin olive oil for its flavor, but you can substitute with any neutral oil like grapeseed or canola if you prefer. Just make sure it has a high smoke point for grilling.
Honey: Honey brings sweetness, but you can use maple syrup or agave syrup for a vegan-friendly option. If sweetness is not your thing, consider using a balsamic reduction for a tangy twist.
Mascarpone Cheese: This creamy cheese is essential for its richness. If you can’t find mascarpone, cream cheese or ricotta can work as alternatives, keeping in mind to soften them beforehand for easier spreading.
Fresh Thyme: Fresh herbs add a nice touch, but dried thyme can work in a pinch. However, fresh basil or mint could also provide a delightful twist!
How Do You Grill Peaches Without Sticking?
Grilling peaches can be tricky, but with a little care, you’ll get perfect results. The trick is to brush the cut sides with olive oil, which helps keep them from sticking. Here’s how to grill them like a pro:
- Preheat your grill to medium heat. This is key for cooking without burning.
- Brush the cut sides of the peaches with olive oil generously before placing them on the grill.
- Place the peaches cut side down and don’t move them for the first few minutes to develop those beautiful grill marks.
- After 4-5 minutes, when they are tender, gently lift them off the grill using tongs. If they stick a little, wiggle them gently to help them release.
How to Make Grilled Peaches With Honey And Mascarpone
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 cup mascarpone cheese
- Fresh thyme sprigs, for garnish
- Ground cinnamon (optional, for sprinkling)
- Salt, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 5-10 minutes to grill. In total, you’ll spend around 20 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and easy treat that’s perfect for a summer dessert or snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium heat. This will ensure that the peaches get those lovely grill marks and a nice caramelization while cooking.
2. Prepare the Peaches:
Take your ripe peaches and cut them in half, removing the pits. Brush the cut sides of each peach half with a little olive oil. This will prevent them from sticking to the grill and add some flavor!
3. Grill the Peaches:
Carefully place the peaches cut side down on the grill. Grill them for about 4-5 minutes, checking occasionally. You’ll know they’re ready when you see grill marks and they become tender.
4. Assemble the Dish:
Once grilled, remove the peaches from the grill and place them cut side up on a serving plate. While they are still warm, drizzle honey generously over each peach half to give them that sweet touch.
5. Add the Mascarpone:
Now it’s time for the mascarpone! Spoon a dollop of the creamy mascarpone cheese into the center of each peach half. This adds a rich and creamy balance to the sweetness of the peaches.
6. Garnish and Serve:
For a finishing touch, garnish your grilled peaches with fresh thyme sprigs. If you like, sprinkle a dash of ground cinnamon on top for extra flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy this delicious combination of warm peaches, sweet honey, and creamy mascarpone!
Can I Use Other Fruits Instead of Peaches?
Absolutely! Grilled nectarines, plums, or even apples work wonderfully as substitutes. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the firmness of the fruit. Aim for a similar grilling time until they are tender.
What If I Don’t Have Mascarpone Cheese?
No problem! You can substitute with cream cheese softened to room temperature or a mixture of ricotta cheese and cream for a similar creamy texture. Sweeten it with a little honey or powdered sugar to mimic mascarpone’s flavor.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover grilled peaches in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat them gently in the microwave or serve cold with mascarpone on the side for a delightful snack!
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
While grilled peaches are best fresh, you can prepare the components ahead! Grill the peaches and let them cool, then keep them in the fridge. Just reheat them briefly and add honey and mascarpone right before serving for the best flavor!
