Can fruits be grilled? What kinds of fruit can you actually grill? Check out our selection of the 11 best delicious fruits to put on your summer barbecue, including pineapple, mango, watermelon, peach, banana, apple, pear, avocado, strawberry, kiwi, and orange. Discover the perfect grilled treat for your BBQ party!
1. Pineapple
Pineapple is one of the best fruits to grill, as it becomes even sweeter and juicier when cooked over an open flame. To grill pineapple, simply slice it into rings or wedges without the skin, and place it on a hot grill for a few minutes on each side until it’s caramelized and slightly charred. You can also sprinkle some cinnamon or brown sugar on top of the pineapple slices before grilling to add some extra sweetness and flavor.
Grilled pineapple is a perfect addition to any summer barbecue. You can serve it as a side dish with grilled meats or seafood, or as a dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of honey.
It’s also a great source of vitamin C and bromelain, an enzyme that aids in digestion. So, fire up the grill and enjoy this sweet and juicy grilled delight!
2. Mango
Mangos are a tropical fruit that add a sweet and tangy flavor to any dish, including grilled dishes. Grilling mango fruits brings out their natural sweetness and adds a smoky flavor that complements their tropical taste.
To grill mango fruits, slice them into thick wedges and brush them with a mixture of honey and lime juice. Grill the mango wedges for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are slightly charred and caramelized.
Grilled mangos are a great side dish! They also make a delicious addition to salads or as a dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
3. Watermelon
Watermelon is a summer staple, and grilling it can take it to the next level. Grilling watermelon caramelizes its natural sugars, intensifying its sweetness and adding a smoky flavor.
To grill watermelon, slice it into wedges or rounds, brush it with olive oil (to prevent sticking), and put it on a grill for 2-3 minutes per side until grill marks appear.
Serve the grilled watermelon with crumbled feta cheese, chopped mint, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a refreshing and savory dish. Grilled watermelon also makes a great base for a summer salad with arugula, cucumber, and red onion.
4. Peach
Peaches are also a great summer fruit, and grilling them also brings out their natural sweetness and juiciness. To grill peaches, cut them in half and remove the pit. Brush them with a mixture of honey, olive oil, and a pinch of salt. Grill them cut-side down for 2-3 minutes until they have grill marks and are slightly softened.
Serve them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a perfect summer dessert. You can also add some chopped nuts or a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra flavor boost.
Grilled peaches are not only delicious but also a great source of vitamins A and C, fiber, and potassium.
5. Banana
Bananas are a versatile fruit that can be used in many dishes, including grilled desserts. Grilling bananas caramelizes it, creating a sweet and delicious treat that’s perfect for any summer barbecue. To grill bananas, slice them in half lengthwise and place them on the grill, cut-side down. Grill for 2-3 minutes until the bananas are caramelized and slightly charred.
Serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce for a tasty dessert. You can also sprinkle them with cinnamon and sugar. You can also grill bananas in smaller pieces if you’d like to.
Grilled bananas are a great way to add a touch of sweetness to your grill and impress your guests with quite a unique and delicious dessert.
6. Apples
Grilling apples is also possible! Choose firm apples, such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, and slice them into wedges or rings. Brush the slices with melted butter or olive oil and sprinkle with cinnamon and brown sugar for best results.
Grill the apple slices over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side until they are tender and slightly charred. Serve the grilled apples as a side dish or as a topping for ice cream or yogurt.
The smoky and sweet flavor of grilled apples is sure to be a hit at your next barbecue party!
7. Pears
Pears are a perfect fruit to grill, especially when they are ripe and juicy. Grilling brings out the sweetness of the pear like it does with most fruits, and gives it a smoky flavor that pairs surprisingly well with savory dishes.
To grill pears, cut them in half and remove the core. Brush them with a mixture of honey and cinnamon and place them on the grill, cut side down.
Grill for about 5 minutes on each side until they are tender and caramelized. You can serve them as a side dish or dessert.
8. Avocado
Avocado is a versatile fruit that can be used in many different dishes, and grilling it is no exception. Grilled avocado is perfect for adding to salads, sandwiches, or even eating on its own.
To grill an avocado, cut it in half and remove the pit. Brush the flesh with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Grill the avocado halves flesh-side down for 2-3 minutes until grill marks appear.
Serve immediately and enjoy the distinct creamy flavor of this delicious grilled fruit.
9. Strawberry
Strawberries are a classic summer fruit that can be enjoyed in many ways, including grilled! To grill strawberries, simply cut them in half and place them cut-side down on a preheated grill for a few minutes until they are slightly charred.
Grilled strawberries can be served on their own as a sweet and healthy dessert, or they can be paired with other grilled fruits like pineapple or mango for a colorful and flavorful fruit salad. You can also serve them with a dollop of whipped cream if you’d like to.
When grilling strawberries, it’s important to choose ripe, firm berries that are not too soft or mushy. You can also add a sprinkle of sugar or honey to the cut side of the strawberries before grilling to enhance their sweetness even further.
10. Kiwi
Kiwi is a fruit that is often overlooked when it comes to grilling, but it can be a real game-changer. Bet you didn’t know you can prepare kiwi on the grill!
To grill kiwi, simply slice it in half and place it on the grill cut side down for a few minutes until grill marks appear. You can also sprinkle some sugar or honey on top for an extra sweet touch. Grilled kiwi is a great addition to salads, desserts, or as a side dish to grilled meats, but it can also be enjoyed solo.
Kiwi is a low-calorie fruit that is high in vitamin C, fiber, and potassium. Grilling kiwi is a great way to add a healthy and delicious twist to your summer barbecue.
11. Orange
Oranges are a great source of Vitamin C and grilling them is an interesting way of going about eating them. To grill oranges, slice them into rounds and brush them with a mixture of honey, olive oil, and a pinch of salt. Grill them for a few minutes per side until they are slightly charred and caramelized.
Grilled oranges can be served as a side dish or used as a topping for salads, desserts, or even cocktails. They add a refreshing and citrusy flavor to any dish and are perfect for summer grilling. Try grilling oranges with other fruits like pineapple or mango for a colorful and flavorful fruit salad.
Grilled oranges are also a great addition to seafood dishes. Serve them with grilled shrimp or scallops for a sweet and tangy flavor combination.