Ah, summer’s sweet embrace – there’s nothing quite like the aroma of grilled peaches mingling with the salty deliciousness of prosciutto and the creamy richness of burrata. It’s a flavor symphony that transports me back to a memorable al fresco dinner on a balmy evening last August. My friends and I had gathered for a backyard gathering, and I knew exactly the showstopper dish I wanted to serve.
As I carefully arranged the grilled peach halves on a platter, the sizzling sounds and caramelized edges had everyone’s mouths watering. We topped the peaches with torn burrata, drizzled them with balsamic glaze, and finished it off with a scattering of fresh basil. The first bite was an explosion of contrasting textures and flavors – the tender grilled fruit, the pillowy cheese, the salty prosciutto, and the sweet-tart balsamic. It was summer on a plate, and my guests couldn’t get enough.
Since that memorable gathering, Grilled Peaches with Burrata and Prosciutto has become a go-to recipe in my repertoire. It’s the perfect balance of simplicity and sophistication, and it always elicits oohs and aahs from my dinner party guests.
Why This Grilled Peaches with Burrata and Prosciutto Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Grilled Peaches with Burrata and Prosciutto
The secret to this Grilled Peaches with Burrata and Prosciutto recipe lies in the interplay of flavors and textures. By grilling the peaches, you bring out their natural sweetness and develop a delightful caramelized char. The burrata cheese, with its creamy interior and delicate outer layer, provides a luscious contrast to the fruit. And the salty prosciutto? It’s the perfect savory foil, elevating the entire dish to new heights.
But it’s not just the ingredients that make this recipe special – it’s the technique. Grilling the peaches requires a delicate touch, ensuring they don’t become mushy or dry. And the placement of the toppings is key, creating a visually stunning and harmonious final presentation.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
- 4 ripe peaches, halved and pitted: Choosing perfectly ripe, juicy peaches is crucial for this dish. Look for fruit that is fragrant and yields slightly to the touch.
- 8 ounces burrata cheese, torn into pieces: Burrata’s creamy interior and delicate outer shell provides a luxurious contrast to the grilled peaches.
- 4 ounces thinly sliced prosciutto: The salty, umami-rich prosciutto adds depth and balance to the sweet peaches.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: This helps the peaches achieve a beautiful caramelized crust on the grill.
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze: The syrupy balsamic glaze ties all the flavors together, adding a tangy-sweet note.
- 10 fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced: The fresh, herbaceous basil provides a vibrant finishing touch.
Step-by-Step Grilled Peaches with Burrata and Prosciutto Instructions
Preparing Your Grilled Peaches with Burrata and Prosciutto
With a total prep and cook time of just 18 minutes, this Grilled Peaches with Burrata and Prosciutto recipe comes together in a flash. You’ll need a grill or grill pan, a sharp knife, a cutting board, and a serving platter.
- Begin by halving the peaches and removing the pits. Brush the cut sides with the olive oil to help them caramelize on the grill.
- Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Place the peach halves, cut-side down, on the hot grates and grill for 4 minutes, or until you see grill marks and the peaches have softened slightly.
- Carefully flip the peach halves and grill for an additional 4 minutes, or until they’re tender and lightly charred.
- Remove the grilled peaches from the heat and arrange them on a serving platter. The juicy, caramelized fruit should have a beautiful golden-brown color.
- Tear the burrata cheese into bite-sized pieces and scatter them over the grilled peaches.
- Drape the thinly sliced prosciutto over the top, allowing the delicate meat to cascade naturally. Finish with a drizzle of balsamic glaze and a sprinkling of the fresh, thinly sliced basil leaves.
Pro Tips for Success
- Choose ripe, but firm peaches. Overripe peaches may become too soft and mushy when grilled.
- Make sure your grill or grill pan is hot before adding the peaches to ensure those coveted grill marks.
- Keep a close eye on the peaches during the grilling process to prevent them from burning.
- Tear the burrata by hand for a rustic, artisanal look and to ensure even distribution across the dish.
Serving and Storing Your Grilled Peaches with Burrata and Prosciutto
Perfect Pairings for Grilled Peaches with Burrata and Prosciutto
This Grilled Peaches with Burrata and Prosciutto recipe serves 8 and makes for a stunning centerpiece at any gathering, whether it’s a backyard barbecue or an intimate dinner party. For the ultimate summer feast, pair it with a crisp white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or a dry Rosé. A fresh arugula salad with a simple vinaigrette would also make an excellent side dish, complementing the richness of the grilled peaches and burrata.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Grilled Peaches with Burrata and Prosciutto is best enjoyed immediately after assembly, as the textures and flavors are at their peak. However, you can prepare some components in advance to make assembly a breeze.
The grilled peaches can be made up to 2 days ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat them gently in the oven or on the grill just before serving. The balsamic glaze can also be made ahead and stored at room temperature.
For longer-term storage, the grilled peaches can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator before reheating and assembling the dish.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Grilled Peaches with Burrata and Prosciutto
Creative Grilled Peaches with Burrata and Prosciutto Variations
- Swap out the prosciutto for thinly sliced Serrano ham or Ibérico ham for a Spanish twist.
- Add a sprinkle of toasted chopped nuts, such as almonds or pistachios, for a delightful crunch.
- Drizzle the grilled peaches with honey or maple syrup for an extra touch of sweetness.
- Try using nectarines or plums instead of peaches for a seasonal variation.
Making Grilled Peaches with Burrata and Prosciutto Diet-Friendly
For a gluten-free version, simply omit the prosciutto and use a gluten-free balsamic glaze. To make it dairy-free, replace the burrata with a high-quality plant-based cheese or creamy cashew-based spread.
If you’re following a low-carb or keto diet, you can serve the grilled peaches and burrata on a bed of mixed greens or arugula instead of enjoying them on their own.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use different types of cheese instead of burrata?
A: Absolutely! Burrata is the star, but you can easily substitute it with fresh mozzarella, ricotta, or even goat cheese. Just be sure to choose a creamy, soft cheese that will complement the grilled peaches.
Q: How can I ensure the peaches are cooked properly in the 8-minute timeframe?
A: The key is to have your grill or grill pan preheated to medium-high heat before adding the peaches. Grilling them for 4 minutes per side, as directed in the recipe, should result in perfectly tender, caramelized peaches. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
Q: Can I make this Grilled Peaches with Burrata and Prosciutto recipe in advance?
A: Yes, you can prepare some components ahead of time. The grilled peaches can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. The balsamic glaze can also be made ahead. However, for best results, it’s best to assemble the entire dish right before serving.
Q: How many people does this Grilled Peaches with Burrata and Prosciutto recipe serve?
A: This recipe is designed to serve 8 people as an appetizer or light main course. If you’re serving it as part of a larger meal, it can easily be scaled up or down to accommodate your guest list.
Q: What if I overcook the peaches on the grill?
A: If the peaches end up a bit too soft or mushy from overcooking, don’t worry! You can still salvage the dish by simply arranging the grilled peaches on the platter and topping them with the burrata, prosciutto, and other garnishes. The creamy cheese and salty prosciutto will help balance out the texture.
Grilled Peaches with Burrata and Prosciutto
- Total Time: 18
- Yield: 8 servings
Description
Prepare to be wowed by this simple yet mouthwatering summer appetizer! Juicy, caramelized grilled peaches are topped with creamy burrata cheese and salty prosciutto for a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and indulgent flavors.
Ingredients
– 4 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
– 8 ounces burrata cheese, torn into pieces
– 4 ounces thinly sliced prosciutto
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
– 10 fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced
Instructions
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Brush the cut sides of the peach halves with olive oil.
3. Grill the peach halves for 3-4 minutes per side, until grill marks appear and the peaches are slightly softened.
4. Remove the grilled peach halves from the grill and arrange them on a serving platter.
5. Top each peach half with a piece of burrata cheese and a slice of prosciutto.
6. Drizzle the dish with balsamic glaze and sprinkle with the sliced basil leaves.
7. Serve immediately, while the peaches are still warm.
Notes
For best results, use ripe but firm peaches. You can also try this recipe with nectarines or apricots. The balsamic glaze adds a nice touch of sweetness, but you can also serve the dish with a balsamic vinegar reduction.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 8
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
Grilled Peaches with Burrata and Prosciutto is a summer showstopper that’s sure to delight your family and friends. With its harmonious blend of sweet, savory, and creamy flavors, it’s a recipe that will become a go-to in your repertoire. So fire up the grill, gather your fresh ingredients, and get ready to indulge in a taste of summer perfection. Don’t forget to share your creations and let me know how you enjoyed this delightful dish!
