Grilled peaches are a sweet summer treat, bursting with flavor! When you grill them, they get a lovely caramelized finish. Topping them with rich blackberry sauce makes them even better!
Honestly, there’s nothing like a warm peach with that tangy berry sauce. I love serving this dish at get-togethers; it’s always a hit! Plus, who can resist grilled fruit? 🍑
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Look for ripe peaches that give slightly when pressed. If fresh peaches aren’t available, you can use canned peaches or even apricots in a pinch. Just slice them in half and remove the pit.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is my go-to for grilling. It adds a lovely flavor. If you’re looking for alternatives, avocado oil works well too—it has a higher smoke point!
Blackberries: Fresh blackberries are ideal, but you can substitute them with blueberries or raspberries if that’s what you have. Keep in mind that the sweetness will vary depending on the berry.
Honey: This ingredient adds a touch of sweetness to the peaches. If you want to skip it, you can use maple syrup or agave nectar as a sweetener. You can also adjust the amount based on your taste!
Mint Leaves: While fresh mint adds a nice touch, you could replace it with basil for a different twist, or even omit it entirely. The dish will still taste great!
How Do I Get the Peaches Perfectly Grilled?
Grilling peaches can be a bit tricky, but it’s all about timing! The goal is to have them caramelized on the grill but still tender inside. Here’s how to nail it:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This is crucial for good grill marks!
- Brush the peaches with olive oil to prevent sticking and enhance their flavor.
- Start with the cut-side down. Grill for 4-5 minutes until you see beautiful grill marks. Flip them gently to avoid squishing.
- Grill the other side for just 2-3 minutes—this helps them soften without going mushy.
Keep an eye on them, as overcooking can cause them to fall apart. Enjoy your perfectly grilled peaches!
Delicious Grilled Peaches with Blackberry Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Grilled Peaches:
- 4 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for sweetness)
For the Blackberry Sauce:
- 1 cup blackberries
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Pinch of salt
For Garnish:
- Fresh mint leaves (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful treat takes about 10 minutes for prep and 20 minutes for cooking, making a total of around 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick dessert or snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This will ensure that the peaches get those delicious grill marks and a nice char.
2. Grill the Peaches:
Brush the peach halves with olive oil. Place them cut-side down on the hot grill. Grill for about 4-5 minutes, or until grill marks appear and the peaches start to soften. Then, flip them over and grill for another 2-3 minutes. They should be tender and warm!
3. Make the Blackberry Sauce:
While the peaches are grilling, let’s make the sauce! In a medium saucepan, mix together the blackberries, sugar, water, lemon juice, and salt. Place it over medium heat and bring it to a boil. Then, reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for about 10-15 minutes. Stir occasionally and use the back of a spoon to mash the blackberries as they break down—this helps make a lovely sauce!
4. Strain the Sauce (Optional):
After the sauce thickens, you can remove it from heat. If you prefer a smoother sauce, strain it through a fine mesh sieve to remove the seeds. This step is optional, but it can make your sauce look extra nice!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once your peaches are grilled and the sauce is ready, transfer the peaches onto a serving platter. Drizzle the warm blackberry sauce over the top. If you like, you can garnish with fresh mint leaves for an extra pop of color and flavor. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious grilled peaches!
Can I Use Frozen Peaches for This Recipe?
Frozen peaches can work, but it’s best to thaw them first! Thaw in the fridge overnight or under cold running water in a sealed bag. Keep in mind, the texture might be softer, and you may need to reduce grilling time to avoid mushiness.
What Can I Substitute for Blackberries?
If blackberries aren’t available, you can use raspberries or blueberries instead. Just adjust the sugar level if using sweeter berries, and follow the same cooking method for the sauce!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover grilled peaches and blackberry sauce in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat the peaches on the grill or stovetop quickly to warm them up, and enjoy the sauce cold or gently warmed up.
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the blackberry sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to a week. Just reheat gently over low heat before serving, as it tends to thicken when chilled.
