Grilling Fruit: A Sweet and Healthy Summer Treat

    Memorial Day Grilling 

    By Jacqueline Gomes, MBA, RDN

    Grilling Fruit: A Sweet and Healthy Summer Treat

    Summer is the perfect season to fire up the grill—and not just for burgers and veggies. Grilling fruit brings out its natural sweetness, creating a smoky, caramelized flavor that’s hard to resist. It’s an easy way to add a healthy, vibrant twist to your summer meals.

    Fruits like peaches, pineapples, watermelon, and bananas hold up well on the grill. Simply slice them thick, brush lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking, and grill for a few minutes on each side until you see grill marks. The heat enhances their natural sugars without the need for added sweeteners.

    Grilled fruit isn’t just delicious—it’s packed with health benefits. Fruits are rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fiber, which help support digestion, boost immunity, and fight inflammation. Grilling can even make certain nutrients, like lycopene in watermelon, more bioavailable to your body.

    Serve grilled fruit on its own, with Greek yogurt, or as a topping for salads and desserts. It’s a guilt-free way to enjoy the sweet flavors of summer while nourishing your body at the same time!

    Grilled Peach Flatbread with Burrata & Pistachios  

    Grilled Peach Flatbread

    Prep: 10 minutes

    Grill: 10 minutes

    Makes: 2 Flatbreads

    Ingredients:

    • 1 package naan flatbread
    • 2 Sweet Southern peaches, sliced and pitted
    • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
    • ½ cup store prepared pesto
    • 4 ounces fresh burrata cheese, torn into chunks
    • 1 cup fresh arugula
    • Balsamic glaze, if desired
    • ¼ cup crushed pistachios

    Directions:

    1. Preheat your outdoor grill to medium-high heat. Grease grill grates with vegetable oil.
    2. Brush peaches with olive oil and place on the grill flesh side down. After about 3 to 4 minutes turn over. Continue to cook for another 3 minutes, transfer to a plate.
    3. Meanwhile, lightly brush Naan bread with olive oil or spray with cooking spray. Place on grill for 1 minute, turn over and cook 1 more minute.
    4. Remove from grill and spread with pesto followed by arugula. Top with sliced peaches and fresh burrata.
    5. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and sprinkle pistachios. Serve immediately.