Broiled Peaches

Indulge in the delightful simplicity of Broiled Peaches, they are best when cooked until the edges turn black, but you can adjust the cooking time to your preference. The magic of these broiled peaches lies in their versatility—you can serve them as a delightful dessert with whipped or ice cream, or go the savory route with salad or as a side dish paired with Skillet Pork Chops, Eight Ways.

Though peaches are the star of this recipe, you can explore other delectable options such as nectarines, apricots, plums, ripe pears, or even pineapple.

MAKES: 4 servings

TIME: 20 minutes or less

INGREDIENTS:

• 4 peaches
• About 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• About 2 tablespoons honey

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Preheat the broiler and adjust the rack to be about 4 inches from the heat source.
2. Cut the peaches in half, and gently remove the pits. Position each peach half on its “back” and fill the cavities with about a teaspoon each of butter and honey.
3. Broil the peaches until the edges begin to brown, or a little longer for a darker finish—this should take about 3 to 5 minutes. Serve the broiled peaches hot or warm.

VARIATIONS:

• Broiled Peaches with Honey Mustard: Swap the butter for mustard, and proceed with the recipe. The tangy twist will add a delightful zing to your peaches.
• Broiled Peaches with Herbs: Skip the honey and instead, sprinkle the peach halves with a pinch of salt, freshly ground black pepper, and a mix of chopped fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, tarragon, and basil.
• Grilled Peaches: For a grilled version, preheat a charcoal or gas grill to moderately high heat, with the rack about 4 inches from the heat source. Melt the butter or use extra virgin olive oil, then brush the peaches on both sides. Grill the peaches over direct heat until softened and marked to your liking, typically around 3 to 5 minutes per side. Once grilled, turn the cut sides up and drizzle with honey—add a sprinkle of crumbled blue cheese for an extra burst of flavor.

SERVING OPTIONS:

• Dessert: Serve the broiled peaches as a delightful dessert. Plate them individually or on a serving platter with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Drizzle extra honey on top for an added touch of sweetness.
• Salad Topping: Transform the broiled peaches into a unique salad topping. Chop the peaches into bite-sized pieces and toss them into a mixed green salad or a spinach salad. Add some toasted nuts, crumbled cheese (such as feta or goat cheese), and a light vinaigrette dressing for a refreshing and flavorful salad.
• Brunch Delight: Include the broiled peaches as part of a delicious brunch spread. Serve them alongside pancakes, waffles, or French toast for a burst of fruity flavor. Top with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of maple syrup for an extra indulgence.
• Charcuterie Board: Add the broiled peaches to a charcuterie board to balance the savory and sweet elements. Arrange the peaches alongside an assortment of cheeses, cured meats, nuts, and crackers. This combination will please any palate and make for an impressive appetizer display.
• Cheese Plate Pairing: Create a unique cheese plate by pairing the broiled peaches with a variety of cheeses. Soft cheeses like brie or camembert complement the sweetness of the peaches, while harder cheeses like aged cheddar or gouda offer a contrasting flavor.
• Grilled Dessert Skewers: For a fun and interactive dessert experience, thread the broiled peach halves onto skewers and let your guests grill their peaches at the table. Provide some whipped cream or yogurt for dipping and an assortment of toppings like chopped nuts, coconut flakes, or fresh berries.
• Savory Side Dish: As suggested in the variations, serve the broiled peaches as a savory side dish alongside grilled meats or seafood. The tanginess of the mustard or the herby flavors will add a delightful twist to your main course.
• Fresh Salsa: Chop the broiled peaches into small pieces and mix them with diced red onions, jalapeños, cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. This fresh and flavorful salsa can be served with tortilla chips, grilled fish, or chicken.

No matter which variation you choose, Mary Willoughby’s Broiled Peaches will surely become a beloved treat for your family and friends. Enjoy the sweet, juicy goodness of this dish and savor the simplicity of summertime flavors.