The Ultimate Guide to Grilling Fruit

Sure, you could throw burgers, fish, or hotdogs on the grill. But for a creative twist on summer grilling, try something sweeter: fruit. The smoky flavor from the grill mixed with fruit’s ambrosial qualities creates a mouth-watering and nutritious addition to salads, desserts, and appetizers. Or, just eat it on its own. Below, the best fruits for grilling.

Grilled peach photo via Mike McCune/flickr

1. Peaches
via About Food

Choose peaches that aren’t too ripe, and be sure to halve the fruit, remove the pit, and toss it in a light coating of olive oil, vinegar, or honey. Grill for about three minutes on each side, or until light grill marks appear; this method also works well for apricots and plums. Once the grilling is complete, try peaches topped with frozen yogurt or coconut cream for a light summer dessert.

Grilled figs photo via Scott Veg/Flickr

2. Figs
via Fine Cooking

Fire up the grill to a low heat and be sure to use figs that are firm. Slice the figs in half and select a neutral oil to coat the rounded side. Place the cut side down on the grill and cook for five to eight minutes. A coating of balsamic vinegar adds a rich flavor and makes the figs a perfect pairing for cheese or arugula salads.

Grilled watermelon photo via Be▲-t/flickr

3. Watermelon
via Food

Slice the fruit into one and a half inch slices, with the option to leave the rind on or off. Sprinkle with salt. Crank the grill up to high and while it heats up, drain the salted watermelon on a rack for about 30 minutes before squeezing out the excess water between two paper towels, taking care not to crush the fruit. Throw it on the grill for five minutes and finish with a dash of salt and pepper, if desired. Serve plain, or dice it with some avocados for a refreshing salad.

Grilled pineapple via Pockafwye/Flickr

4. Pineapple
via Food Network

Due to its thickness, pineapple should be cooked over high heat. Preheat the grill and slice the pineapple into wedges. The thicker the wedge, the longer the cooking time. Coat the pineapple with a thin layer of olive oil and cook until both sides are moderately charred, about six to eight minutes per side. Try brushing with coconut oil for a tropical flare, or chop the grilled pineapple to add to salsa.

Grilled apples via shutterstock

5. Apple
via About Food

For a sweet treat, begin by whisking together water and lemon juice. Core the apples, cut them into rings, and dip them into the lemon and water mixture. Coat the apples with cinnamon and a small sprinkle of sugar. Place over medium heat for six to eight minutes, or until golden brown. Top your morning oatmeal or yogurt with the grilled apples to mix up your breakfast routine.

Grilled lemon via arsheffield/Flickr

6. Lemons
via Love and Lentils

Start by slicing the lemons in half. Sprinkle a light coating of sugar onto each of the lemon halves. Heat the grill to medium-heat and place each lemon cut-side down. Wait until the lemons are brown, about five minutes, then use your grilled fruit for a flavorful lemonade or a tart accompaniment to meat and fish. Bonus: You can also get creative and try grilling oranges or grapefruits the same way.