Grilled peaches are a sweet summer treat, especially when topped with a rich blackberry sauce. The warm, juicy peaches get a lovely char, making them taste even better!
Trust me, this dish feels fancy, but it’s super simple to make. I love serving it with ice cream for a dreamy dessert that everyone raves about. You might even want to make seconds! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Fresh, ripe peaches are essential for the best flavor. If peaches are out of season, you can use nectarines or even plums as a substitute for a different taste.
Olive Oil: I use extra-virgin olive oil for its rich flavor, but any cooking oil will work. You could opt for coconut oil for a tropical twist or even a flavored oil like rosemary.
Blackberries: Fresh blackberries are my go-to for their sweetness, but you can use raspberries, blueberries, or a mix of berries if blackberries aren’t available. Frozen berries are fine too; just add a few extra minutes to cook down.
Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens the sauce, but feel free to substitute with honey or maple syrup for a different touch. Adjust the amount based on how sweet your berries are.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens the sauce. If you don’t have any, white vinegar could provide a similar acidity, just use it sparingly.
How Do You Grill Peaches Without Them Falling Apart?
Grilling peaches is a fun way to bring out their natural sweetness, but they can be tricky. Here’s how to do it right:
- Choose ripe, but firm peaches. This ensures they hold up on the grill.
- Brush the cut sides with olive oil. This helps prevent sticking and enhances the grill marks.
- Sprinkle with a little salt, which brings out the flavor. Remember, just a pinch goes a long way.
- Preheat your grill to medium heat. This helps achieve those perfect grill marks without burning.
- Grill cut side down for 4-5 minutes until tender, then flip for another 2-3 minutes.
Perfectly grilled peaches have beautiful char marks and a sweet, caramelized flavor. Enjoy your grilling!
Grilled Peaches With Blackberry Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Grilled Peaches:
- 4 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt, to taste
For the Blackberry Sauce:
- 1 cup fresh blackberries
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Garnish:
- Mint leaves for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes for preparation and another 20 minutes for cooking, making the total time around 30 minutes. It’s a quick and easy dessert that brings out the sweet flavors of summer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium heat. This helps in getting those lovely grill marks on the peaches and gives them a nice smoky flavor.
2. Prepare the Peaches:
While the grill is heating, brush the cut sides of the peach halves with olive oil. This not only flavors the peaches but also helps them from sticking to the grill. Sprinkle a little salt over each peach half to enhance their sweetness.
3. Grill the Peaches:
Once the grill is hot, place the peaches cut side down on it. Grill for about 4-5 minutes or until you see beautiful grill marks and the peaches start to soften. Then, carefully flip them over and grill for an additional 2-3 minutes. They should be tender and juicy!
4. Make the Blackberry Sauce:
While the peaches are grilling, it’s the perfect time to prepare the blackberry sauce. In a small saucepan, combine the fresh blackberries, granulated sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Cook over medium heat, stirring gently for about 10-12 minutes. You want the blackberries to break down and the sauce to thicken nicely.
5. Plate the Grilled Peaches:
Once the peaches are done grilling, carefully remove them from the grill and plate them. They should look beautifully caramelized and ready to be topped!
6. Drizzle and Serve:
Generously drizzle the warm blackberry sauce over the grilled peaches, allowing the sweet and tangy flavor to soak in. If you like, garnish with fresh mint leaves for a vibrant touch. Serve warm and enjoy this delightful summer treat!
Can I Use Frozen Peaches Instead of Fresh Ones?
Yes, you can use frozen peaches, but they might be a bit softer after thawing. To thaw them, simply place the frozen peaches in the fridge overnight or run them under cold water in a sealed bag for a quicker option. Be sure to pat them dry before grilling to avoid excess moisture on the grill.
How Can I Adjust the Sweetness of the Blackberry Sauce?
If you prefer a less sweet sauce, simply reduce the amount of sugar to 2 tablespoons or even omit it entirely if your blackberries are sweet enough! You can always taste the sauce as it cooks and add more sugar if needed, adjusting to your preference.
What Should I Do with Leftover Blackberry Sauce?
Store any leftover blackberry sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. You can use it as a topping for pancakes, yogurt, or even ice cream! If it thickens too much, just stir in a splash of water or lemon juice to loosen it up before using.
Can I Substitute Other Berries for Blackberries?
Absolutely! You can use raspberries, blueberries, or a mix of berries for a different flavor profile. Just be aware that different berries may require slight adjustments in cooking time, as they can break down at various rates when heated.
