She Strengthens

Summer’s Sweetest Grilled Delight: Nectarines with Pecan Crumble

When it comes to outdoor gatherings, it’s easy to get stuck in a rut, serving the same old burgers and hot dogs. But what if you could wow your guests with a sweet and savory dessert that’s both easy to make and utterly impressive? Enter: grilled nectarines with a buttery pecan-and-brown-sugar crumble topping and a hint of honeyed brandy.

A Game-Changing Dessert

These sweet treats are sure to outshine even the most mouth-watering burgers at your next barbecue. And the best part? You won’t need to turn on the oven. Simply top your grilled nectarines with a dollop of creamy lemon-scented mascarpone cheese to balance out the smoky flavor from the grill.

Get Ready to Grill

Before you start, make sure you have a pastry brush on hand. And don’t worry if nectarines aren’t in season – you can easily substitute them with peaches.

Yield and Difficulty

This recipe yields 6 servings and is rated as easy, taking only 40 minutes to complete from start to finish.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup mascarpone cheese
• 2 teaspoons granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest
• 3/4 cup roasted, salted pecans, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup packed dark brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (1/4 stick), at room temperature
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons brandy
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 6 medium, ripe, but firm nectarines (about 2 1/2 pounds), halved and pitted

Grilling and Assembly

Heat your grill pan or outdoor grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F to 425°F). Meanwhile, prepare your toppings: mix together the mascarpone cheese, sugar, and lemon zest, and set aside. In another bowl, combine the pecans, brown sugar, butter, and cinnamon until crumbly.

When the grill is ready, brush both sides of the nectarines with the honey mixture and place them cut-side down on the grill. Cover and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until grill marks appear. Flip the nectarines, divide the pecan mixture among them, and cover the grill again. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the nectarines begin to soften.

Serve and Enjoy

Remove the nectarines from the grill and serve immediately or at room temperature, topping with the lemon-mascarpone mixture just before serving. Get ready for the oohs and aahs from your guests!