SoCal BBQ

Best Fruits to Grill

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When it comes to outdoor cooking, fruits often get overlooked. However, the best fruits to grill can elevate your BBQ with their natural sweetness and unique flavors. Grilling fruits caramelizes their sugars, enhancing their taste and making them a perfect addition to any BBQ spread. Discover which fruits are best for grilling and how to prepare them for a delicious, smoky treat.

1. Pineapple

Pineapple is one of the best fruits to grill due to its firm texture and high sugar content. Slice it into rings or wedges and grill until caramelized and slightly charred. The heat intensifies its sweetness, making it a perfect complement to savory dishes.

2. Peaches

Grilled peaches are a summertime favorite. Halve and pit the peaches, then brush with a little oil before placing them on the grill. Cook until tender and slightly charred. They pair wonderfully with ice cream or as a topping for salads.

3. Watermelon

Grilling watermelon might sound unusual, but it’s one of the best fruits to BBQ. The heat intensifies its sweetness and adds a subtle smoky flavor. Cut into thick slices and grill briefly on each side.

4. Bananas

Bananas are great for grilling because their natural sugars caramelize beautifully. Leave the peel on, slice lengthwise, and place cut-side down on the grill. Serve with a drizzle of honey or a scoop of ice cream for a decadent dessert.

5. Apples

Grilled apples are delicious and versatile. Core and slice them into rings, then grill until tender. They are perfect for adding to savory dishes or enjoying as a sweet treat with cinnamon and sugar.

6. Pears

Pears hold up well on the grill and develop a lovely sweetness. Slice them in half, remove the core, and grill until tender. They’re a fantastic addition to salads or served with a dollop of whipped cream.

7. Mangoes

Mangoes are another excellent choice for grilling. Slice the fruit, remove the pit, and grill until slightly charred. The heat enhances their natural sweetness and makes them a great topping for fish or chicken.

8. Strawberries

Strawberries can be grilled on skewers to prevent them from falling through the grates. Their natural sugars caramelize quickly, making them a tasty addition to desserts or salads.

9. Figs

Grilled figs are a gourmet treat. Halve the figs and grill them cut-side down until caramelized. They’re perfect for adding to cheese plates or drizzling with balsamic glaze.

10. Plums

Plums develop a rich, sweet flavor when grilled. Halve and pit them, then grill until tender and slightly charred. They’re great on their own or as a topping for yogurt or ice cream.

Tips for Grilling Fruits

  • Oil Lightly: Brush fruits with a little oil to prevent sticking and to help with caramelization.
  • Moderate Heat: Use medium heat to avoid burning the natural sugars.
  • Grill Grates: Ensure your grill grates are clean to prevent fruits from sticking and picking up unwanted flavors.
  • Timing: Fruits grill quickly, so keep an eye on them and turn frequently for even cooking.

Conclusion

Adding the best fruits to grill to your BBQ repertoire can transform your outdoor cooking experience. From pineapple and peaches to watermelon and bananas, each fruit offers a unique flavor that’s enhanced by the grill. Experiment with different fruits and enjoy the sweet, smoky results as a delightful addition to your next BBQ.