Grilled Nectarines with Goat Cheese Recipe

Nectarines: These stone fruits are sweet and juicy, perfect for grilling. Choose ripe but firm nectarines for the best results.

Goat cheese: A creamy, tangy cheese that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the nectarines. Look for a fresh variety.

Honey: Adds a touch of natural sweetness and enhances the flavors of the dish.

Olive oil: Used to brush the nectarines before grilling, adding a subtle richness.

Salt: A pinch of salt balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.

When grilling nectarines, make sure to preheat the grill to medium-high heat to achieve those perfect grill marks. Brush the cut sides with olive oil to prevent sticking and enhance flavor. For an extra touch, you can lightly toast the goat cheese before filling the nectarines to add a warm, creamy texture. Drizzle with honey right before serving to ensure it doesn't burn on the grill.

• nectarines - Substitute with peaches: Peaches have a similar texture and sweetness, making them an excellent alternative for grilling.

• nectarines - Substitute with plums: Plums offer a slightly tart flavor that complements the creamy goat cheese well.

• goat cheese - Substitute with feta cheese: Feta cheese provides a tangy flavor and crumbly texture similar to goat cheese.

• goat cheese - Substitute with ricotta cheese: Ricotta is milder and creamier, offering a different but pleasant texture and taste.

• honey - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup adds a rich, caramel-like sweetness that pairs well with grilled fruits.

• honey - Substitute with agave nectar: Agave nectar is a plant-based sweetener with a similar consistency to honey.

• olive oil - Substitute with grapeseed oil: Grapeseed oil has a neutral flavor and high smoke point, making it suitable for grilling.

• olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil is rich in healthy fats and has a high smoke point, ideal for grilling.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt offers a slightly different mineral content and flavor profile.

• salt - Substitute with kosher salt: Kosher salt has larger, coarser grains that can enhance the texture and flavor of the dish.

• Allow the grilled nectarines to cool completely before storing. This helps to maintain their texture and flavor.

• Place the nectarines in an airtight container. If stacking, separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

• Store the container in the refrigerator. The grilled nectarines will keep for up to 3 days.

• For longer storage, consider freezing. Place the nectarines on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they are not touching each other.

• Freeze the nectarines for about 2 hours or until they are solid. This prevents them from sticking together.

• Transfer the frozen nectarines to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date for reference.

• When ready to enjoy, thaw the nectarines in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until warmed through.

• Avoid microwaving as it can alter the texture of the goat cheese and nectarines.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the grilled nectarines on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Warm them in the oven for about 10 minutes, or until the goat cheese is slightly melted and the nectarines are heated through.

• If you prefer using a microwave, place the nectarines on a microwave-safe plate. Cover them with a microwave-safe lid or another plate to prevent splattering. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure they are warming evenly.

• For a quick stovetop method, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of olive oil to the pan. Place the nectarines cut side down and cover with a lid. Heat for about 3-4 minutes, or until warmed through.

• If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 320°F (160°C). Place the nectarines in the basket and heat for about 5 minutes, checking halfway to ensure they are not overcooking.

• To maintain the grill marks and smoky flavor, you can reheat the nectarines on a grill pan over medium heat. Place them cut side down for about 3-4 minutes, or until they are warmed through.

• Grill: Used to cook the nectarines and give them a nice char and grill marks.

• Basting brush: Used to brush olive oil onto the cut sides of the nectarines.

• Tongs: Handy for placing and removing the nectarines from the grill.

• Serving platter: To place the grilled nectarines on for serving.

• Spoon: Useful for filling the center of each nectarine with goat cheese.

• Honey drizzler: Ideal for drizzling honey over the nectarines.

• Knife: For halving and pitting the nectarines.

• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for cutting the nectarines.

Preheat the grill: Start preheating your grill while you prepare the nectarines to save time.

Prep ahead: Halve and pit the nectarines in advance and store them in the fridge.

Use a brush: Use a brush to quickly and evenly apply olive oil on the nectarines.

Softened goat cheese: Let the goat cheese sit at room temperature for easier spreading.

Quick drizzle: Transfer honey to a squeeze bottle for a fast and even drizzle.