Grilled Apricots

There’s nothing quite like the sweet, smoky flavor of grilled apricots, don’t you think? As summer heats up, these juicy gems transform into a delightful treat that’s perfect for BBQ gatherings. Whether serving them as a side dish or dessert, grilled apricots add a touch of seasonal magic to any table. Let’s dive into this delicious grilled apricot delight that will impress your friends and family.

Grilled apricots are more than just a pretty fruit on the platter. Their sweet tartness, when heated, becomes even more luscious and caramelized, elevating the overall flavor experience. Pair them with savory meats, drizzle with honey, or blend into a refreshing salad, and you’ll see why they are a summer favorite. Plus, they are so easy to prepare that you’ll be reaching for them all season long.

Ingredients

• Fresh apricots – 8 (halved and pitted; swap with peaches for a different flavor)
• Olive oil – 2 tablespoons (or replace with avocado oil)
• Honey – 2 tablespoons (local honey adds extra flavor)
• Salt – 1/4 teaspoon (coarse sea salt for texture)
• Fresh mint – 2 tablespoons (chopped, optional for garnish)
• Black pepper – a pinch (for a little kick)

Instructions

Prepare the Apricots:

Start by washing your fresh apricots and cutting them in half, removing the pits. Place them in a large bowl.

Mix the Marinade:

In a small bowl, combine olive oil, honey, salt, and a pinch of black pepper. Drizzle this mixture over your halved apricots and gently toss to coat.

Preheat the Grill:

Get your grill ready by preheating it to medium heat. A hot grill is essential for those beautifully caramelized grill marks.

Grill the Apricots:

Place the apricots cut-side down on the grill. Grill for about 3-4 minutes, then flip and grill for an additional 2-3 minutes until they are soft and have nice char marks.

Serve and Garnish:

Remove the apricots from the grill and let them cool slightly. Drizzle with extra honey and sprinkle with chopped mint for a fresh touch. Enjoy warm.

Nutritional Information

Grilled apricots are low in calories and packed with vitamins A, C, and potassium. Each serving contains approximately 80 calories, making them a guilt-free summer treat.

Healthier Alternatives

If you’re looking for a healthier twist, try substituting honey with agave syrup or a sugar-free sweetener. For additional nutrients, you can toss in some chopped nuts on top before serving for added crunch and healthy fats.

Serving Suggestions

These grilled apricots shine as a side dish with grilled meats or as a delightful topping for yogurt or ice cream. You could also serve them alongside an impressive cheese platter to elevate your summer BBQ. Trust me, they’ll be a hit.

Common Mistakes

One common mistake is not preheating the grill properly. If your grill isn’t hot enough, the apricots can become mushy rather than beautifully charred. Also, avoid overcooking; just a few minutes on each side is enough to unlock their flavor.

Chef’s Notes

• For a unique twist, try marinating the apricots overnight in the honey mixture for deeper flavor.
• If you’re hosting a larger gathering, feel free to double the recipe. You’ll want plenty to go around.
• Consider pairing your grilled apricots with a drizzle of balsamic reduction for a delicious contrast.

FAQs

• Q1: Can I use frozen apricots for grilling?
  A1: While fresh apricots are best for grilling, frozen ones can work too. Just make sure to thaw and drain them first.
• Q2: How can I tell when my apricots are ripe for grilling?
  A2: Look for apricots that are slightly soft to the touch with vibrant color. They should have a sweet aroma.
• Q3: What else can I serve with grilled apricots?
  A3: Try serving them alongside grilled chicken or even as a topping for ricotta on toast for an impressive appetizer.

Enjoy your summer BBQs with this flavor-packed grilled apricot delight. For additional delicious recipes, don’t miss my air fryer honey butter garlic chicken tenders for a savory twist, or whip up the ultimate banana nut bread recipe for dessert.

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