Grill-Ready Apple Slices: Can You Add Fruit to Your BBQ?

Grilling isn't just for meats and vegetables. Have you ever considered that you can also bring out the sweetness of fruits on the grill? One such delicious experiment you can try is grilling apple slices. The natural sugars in the apples caramelize, creating a unique smoky and sweet flavor that's perfect for a healthy dessert or side dish.

But before you fire up your grill, you might be wondering how to prepare and grill apple slices for the best results. Let's dive into the details and explore some creative ways to enjoy this versatile fruit.

Preparing Apples for the Grill

The first step to grilling perfect apple slices is selecting the right apples. Firm, sweet apples like Honeycrisp, Pink Lady, orJonathan work best as they hold their shape well on the grill. Avoid soft or mealy varieties as they'll turn mushy when cooked.

Once you've picked your apples, it's time to prep them for the grill. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

Peel or No Peel?

Whether or not to peel your apples is a matter of personal preference. Leaving the peel on provides extra texture and added fiber, while peeling gives a smoother, more traditional apple experience.

If you decide to peel your apples, use a vegetable peeler or a sharp knife to remove the skin. For unpeeled apples, make sure to scrub them clean with a vegetable brush under running water to remove any dirt or residue.

Slice Them Properly

To ensure even cooking, slice your apples into even thicknesses. A thickness of about 1/4 to 1/2 inch is ideal. You can use a mandoline or a sharp knife to achieve this. To prevent browning, place your sliced apples in a bowl of cold water with a little lemon juice until you're ready to grill them.

Grilling Apple Slices: Techniques and Recipes

Now that your apples are prepped, it's time to fire up the grill. Grilling apples can be done on both gas and charcoal grills, with indirect heat preferred for a more even cook. Here are two popular methods to get you started:

Direct Heat Grilling

Prepare your grill for direct heat cooking. For a gas grill, preheat to medium-high (about 400°F/200°C). For a charcoal grill, build a medium-hot fire, spreading the coals evenly for consistent heat.

Lightly oil your apple slices and place them directly on the grill grates. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until you see nice grill marks and the apples start to soften. Be careful when flipping, as the slices can be delicate.

Indirect Heat Grilling

For indirect heat cooking, preheat your grill to medium (about 350°F/180°C) for a gas grill or build a medium fire, then bank the coals to one side for a charcoal grill.

Place your oiled apple slices on the side of the grill without heat. Close the lid and cook for 5-7 minutes, then flip and cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until the apples are tender and slightly charred on the edges.

Once your apples are grilled, there are numerous ways to enjoy them. Serve them as is with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of honey for a healthy dessert. Incorporate them into a composed salad, or use them as a topping for yogurt parfaits or ice cream sundaes. For a more indulgent treat, try them alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream and a sprinkle of toasted nuts.

So, the next time you're planning a BBQ, don't forget to include these delectable grilled apple slices. They're sure to become a crowd-pleasing hit and a staple in your grilling repertoire. Happy grilling!