4th of july-grilling fruit
As we enter the warm spring and summer months, grilling and barbeques are amongst favorite pastimes. Whether you’re gathering for a Memorial Day or 4th of July cookout, or simply want to enjoy using your grill all season long, grilling is a fantastic way to prepare foods in an appetizing and appealing manner.
When you think of the grill, the first thought that comes to mind is not often fruit! You’re likely to think of meats and vegetables on the grill, such as burgers and kabobs. However, grilling fruit is a fun and exciting twist, that is also healthy! Not only are many summer fruits in-season and fresh, but you’re likely to already have the grill fired up!
Which Fruits can I Grill?
The best fruits to grill are ones that are firm and not over-ripened. Over-ripened fruit may fall apart when you place them on the grill. Some of my favorite fruits to grill include peaches, plums, watermelon, pineapple, and pears!
Smaller fruits like berries can be harder to grill. If you’d like to use berries on the grill, you can pick up simple skewers and make fun fruit kabobs. For a festive treat on 4th of July, use red strawberries and blueberries for a red, white, blue patriotic treat.
How to Grill Fruits Step-by-Step
Never grilled fruit before and not sure how to start? Below are some simple steps to get started.
1. First, start by preheating your grill. You’ll want the heat level to be around medium high for optimal grilling temperatures for fruit. If you’re using fruits with pits, remove these before placing on the grill. For fruits with tough outer skins like a watermelon or pineapple, remove these before grilling.
2. The next step is all about preparing your fruit to place on the grill. Using a sharp knife, cut up your fruit into slices or wedges. For this step, you can get creative and make the fruit any shape you’d like. Stone fruits, such as peaches, plums, and nectarines, are best cut in half. Be sure to keep your pieces large enough to be handled on the grill.
3. Place fruit directly onto a clean grill surface. Grill for three minutes and watch for grill marks to appear! These lines make your delicious summer fruit look so appetizing!
4. After three minutes, flip each piece of fruit and repeat on the other side for another three minutes.
5. Remove your fruit from the grill. You’re now ready to enjoy! Fruit can be consumed plain, as is, or you can jazz it up with other healthy toppings. A favorite healthy topping is honey, or a dab of Greek yogurt for a creamy addition!
If preferred, you may choose to grill fruits as fruit kabobs instead of individual slices. Metal or wooden skewers can be used.
Fun Twist on 4th of July
Planning a 4th of July backyard gathering? Check out these exciting steps to grill fruit below. While you’re grilling your burgers this 4th of July, add some fruit to the grill for a tasty treat! Your guests will love the option for a healthy summer snack that is perfect to celebrate America.
