Grilling Tip: Fruit
Grilled fruit can be a healthy, exotic addition to a summer meal. Almost any fruit can be grilled -- apples, bananas, pears, cantaloupe, pineapples, nectarines, you name it. Grilled fruit can be added to salads, used as side dishes or enjoyed as dessert.
- Cut fruit into half-inch slices or chunks (for kabobs).
- Make sure the cooking grid is clean. Residue from meats and other previously grilled foods can overpower the fruits' flavor.
- Grill over low heat.
- Harder fruits such as apples and pears can be grilled for 3 to 5 minutes on each side. Softer fruits such as peaches and plums need less time.
- You can grill fruit in its skin.
- If you're watching your calorie intake, use fat-free nonstick spray on the grill and don't brush any butter or oil on the fruit while cooking.
SAFETY NOTE: Because of their high water content, fruits can be exceptionally hot when grilled. Be sure to let fruit cool down a bit before serving.
