If you think grilling is just for the meats, you’re missing out on a whole world of caramelized, juicy goodness. Summer is prime time for fresh fruits and grilling, so we’re giving you the 10 best fruits you never thought to grill (but totally should) for next-level summer plate!
10. Starfruit
This one can be a showstopper. Grilling starfruit brings out its mild sweetness and turns it into a juicy gem with a hint of caramel flavor. Starfruit holds up well on the grill as long as you use ones that are slightly underripe. They have a firm texture and get better grill marks.
9. Strawberries
Due to their small size, strawberries can be tricky to grill. But be patient because the flavor payoff is real! Enjoy them grilled and you’ll get that sweet, slightly tart, and almost addictive flavor. You can even take that to the next level by brushing the grilled strawberries with maple syrup or balsamic glaze.
8. Honeydew Melon
This underdog of fruit salad transforms beautifully when grilled. Juicy, floral, and totally unexpected. Grilling amplifies the melon’s subtle sweetness and gives it a roasted flavor. It’s perfect with grilled chicken but you can also chill the grilled melon before adding to salads for a smoky-cool meal.
7. Mango
That’s right, mangoes aren’t just for smoothies. Grilled mango has a buttery texture and caramelized edges that will surely steal the show. For a zesty twist, you can brush the grilled mango with lime juice or chili-lime seasoning. Best paired with grilled chicken, fish tacos, or sticky rice!
6. Plums
Plums also caramelize beautifully and the balanced sweet-tangy flavor works well with sweet and savory dishes. A tip? Choose slightly firm plums so they won’t collapse while grilling. Halve and pit the plums and lightly brush with oil or honey.
5. Figs
Fresh figs are already luxurious. Throw them on the grill and you get next-level indulgence! The heat brings out the fruit’s sweet flavor (like warm jam) and the soft skin gets a little crispy, adding a nice contrast. You can try this with arugula, grilled chicken, or drizzled with balsamic.
4. Avocado
Avocado is technically a fruit so here we are. And if you haven’t discovered yet, it also grills like a champ. Expect a deeper flavor and creamy flesh contrasted by the toasty outer layer. Grilling avocado will give you that slightly nutty and savory flavor dimension. The flesh? It’ll almost melt in your mouth!
3. Cantaloupe
Some might raise their eyebrows, but we stand our ground. Cantaloupe on grill is a gem. It becomes sweeter, juicier, and subtly smoky. Grilling brings out the fruit’s honeyed notes and its firm texture also holds up well. You can thread slices of cantaloupe onto skewers with mozzarella balls for a new twist on Caprese salad.
2. Kiwi
For this one, you might be expecting a mess, but hear us out. Grilled kiwi is pure gold because it gives you that caramelized surprise and tangy-sweet tropical twist! Grilling brings out its natural sugars, especially when slightly underripe. Want something more indulgent? Try grilled kiwi with a scoop of vanilla ice cream!
1. Grapefruit
If you never loved grapefruit’s natural bitterness, the more you need to try grilling it! What you’ll get is a warm, sweet, smoky, and shockingly delicious grilled fruit. The heat melts away the bitterness and highlights the sweet-tart flavor. The edges also caramelize for a brulee-like finish. For a spicy-sweet kick, brush the fruit with a blend of maple syrup and cayenne before grilling.