Grilled Nectarines with Gorgonzola and Hazelnuts Recipe

If you savor the delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors that dance on your palate, then the Grilled Nectarines with Gorgonzola and Hazelnuts Recipe is going to become one of your new favorite treats. This dish brings together the juicy caramelized nectarines, the sharp creaminess of gorgonzola, and the satisfying crunch of toasted hazelnuts, creating an irresistible harmony. It’s a simple yet elegant recipe that transforms humble summer fruit into a decadent appetizer or a charming side dish, perfect for impressing guests or elevating your weeknight meals.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of the Grilled Nectarines with Gorgonzola and Hazelnuts Recipe lies in its straightforward, thoughtful ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role, from the ripe nectarines that provide natural sweetness and juiciness to the rich gorgonzola that adds depth and character. The hazelnuts bring a toasty crunch and the fresh mint leaves inject a burst of refreshing aroma and color. Together, these components are simple but essential to achieve the full experience.

• Olive oil: Used to lightly coat the nectarines for perfect grilling and a subtle fruity undertone.
• 4 ripe but not too ripe freestone nectarines or peaches: The star of the dish, juicy and sweet but firm enough to hold up on the grill.
• 3 tablespoons honey: Adds a natural sweetness and helps achieve that irresistible caramelized glaze.
• 1/2 cup (15 g) fresh mint leaves: Provides a bright and herbaceous contrast to the rich cheese and fruit.
• 1/2 cup (70 g) hazelnuts, toasted: Brings crunchy texture and a nutty flavor that balances the creamy cheese.
• 1/2 cup (70 g) crumbled gorgonzola or another blue cheese: Offers a sharp, tangy creaminess that complements the nectarines beautifully.
• Flaky salt: Enhances all the flavors by adding bursts of savory seasoning.

How to Make Grilled Nectarines with Gorgonzola and Hazelnuts Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Fruit

Begin by washing your nectarines or peaches and patting them dry. Then, slice each fruit in half and remove the pits. Brush the cut sides lightly with olive oil; this prevents sticking and encourages a lovely caramelized finish on the grill. The freestone variety is ideal because it separates cleanly from the pit, making preparation easier and neater.

Step 2: Fire Up the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. The heat level is important to achieve gorgeous grill marks and caramelization without burning the delicate fruit. Once the grill is ready, place the fruit halves cut side down. Grill for about 3 to 4 minutes or until you see the fruit softening and getting those signature caramel stripes. Flip them carefully and cook for an additional 2 minutes to warm through the skin side.

Step 3: Drizzle with Honey and Add Cheese

Remove the nectarines from the grill and immediately drizzle them with honey while they are still warm. The heat helps the honey spread smoothly and enhances the sweet profile of the dish. Next, sprinkle the crumbled gorgonzola generously over each half so that it slightly melts into the warmth of the fruit, giving every bite a tangy, creamy surprise.

Step 4: Toast and Add Hazelnuts

While the fruit grills, toast the hazelnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they release their rich aroma and turn golden brown. Once toasted, roughly chop the hazelnuts and scatter them over the nectarines for a perfect crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft fruit and cheese.

Step 5: Final Touches with Mint and Flaky Salt

Finish off your Grilled Nectarines with Gorgonzola and Hazelnuts Recipe by garnishing with fresh mint leaves torn into small pieces. This addition brings a fresh burst of color and a cooling brightness that balances the richness. Finally, sprinkle a pinch of flaky salt over the top to enhance all the flavors and add a satisfying crunch.

How to Serve Grilled Nectarines with Gorgonzola and Hazelnuts Recipe

Garnishes

Serve this dish with extra mint leaves and a light drizzle of honey on the plate for a polished presentation. A few whole toasted hazelnuts on the side add rustic charm, and you can also add a scattering of edible flowers for an elegant touch if you want to impress at a dinner party.

Side Dishes

This recipe shines brightest when paired with crisp, peppery arugula salad or alongside a platter of mixed greens tossed with a simple lemon vinaigrette. For heartier occasions, serve it with crusty bread or grilled chicken to round out the meal. The sweet and savory elements make it incredibly versatile.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to get imaginative, try serving your Grilled Nectarines with Gorgonzola and Hazelnuts Recipe on small appetizer spoons for a sophisticated canapé, or layer it over crostini for a delightful snack. It also works wonderfully as a topping for flatbreads or pizzas for an unexpected gourmet twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover grilled nectarines can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To keep the texture and flavors intact, add the gorgonzola and hazelnuts fresh when serving again rather than storing them mixed in.

Freezing

Freezing is not recommended for this Grilled Nectarines with Gorgonzola and Hazelnuts Recipe since the texture of the fruit will become mushy upon thawing and the cheese may separate, which diminishes the lovely mouthfeel of the dish.

Reheating

If you want to enjoy the nectarines warm again, gently reheat them in a skillet over low heat for just a few minutes, keeping an eye on the cheese so it doesn’t overcook. Avoid microwaving as it can make the texture rubbery and uneven.

FAQs

Can I use peaches instead of nectarines in this recipe?

Absolutely! Freestone peaches work just as beautifully as nectarines and will offer a similar sweet and juicy base for this recipe. Just make sure they are ripe but firm enough to grill without falling apart.

What if I don’t like gorgonzola? Can I use another cheese?

Yes, you can substitute gorgonzola with other blue cheeses if you prefer a milder version, or even try feta or goat cheese for a different flavor profile. The key is to use a cheese that offers a creamy, sharp contrast to the sweetness of the fruit.

How do I toast hazelnuts without burning them?

Use a dry skillet on medium heat and stir or shake the pan frequently to ensure even toasting. Keep a close eye on the nuts—they should turn golden brown and smell fragrant but not charred.

Can I prepare this recipe on a stovetop grill pan?

Definitely! A stovetop grill pan works perfectly if you don’t have access to an outdoor grill. Just make sure to preheat the pan well and watch the nectarines carefully, as they can cook faster on stovetop grills.

Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, the Grilled Nectarines with Gorgonzola and Hazelnuts Recipe is entirely vegetarian, containing no meat or animal products beyond dairy, making it a great option for vegetarian guests or those looking for a flavorful meat-free choice.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about the combination of warm, caramelized nectarines paired with the creamy tang of gorgonzola and the crunch of hazelnuts, and this Grilled Nectarines with Gorgonzola and Hazelnuts Recipe captures that magic perfectly. Whether you serve it as an appetizer, side dish, or unexpected dessert, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s easy to prepare and full of flavor. I can’t wait for you to try it and fall in love with these bright, bold flavors just as I have!

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