Grilled Nectarines with Burrata and Honey: The Ultimate Summer Dish

When summer rolls around, it’s time to fire up the grill—not just for burgers and skewers, but for fruits, too. One of the most unexpectedly delicious combinations you can prepare is grilled nectarines with burrata and honey. This sweet and savory dish is simple, elegant, and packed with flavor, making it the perfect starter, side, or even light dessert.

In this guide, you’ll learn why this recipe works so well, how to make it step-by-step, the best ingredient swaps, and expert tips to elevate your presentation and taste.

Why Grilled Nectarines and Burrata Are a Match Made in Heaven

Stone fruits like nectarines develop an intensified sweetness and a smoky depth when grilled. Pairing them with creamy burrata cheese—a soft cheese filled with stracciatella and cream—creates an irresistible contrast of textures and flavors. The final drizzle of honey balances the dish with a warm, golden sweetness that ties it all together.

This dish takes cues from the Italian Caprese salad but adds a summer twist by grilling fruit instead of using tomatoes. The result is a refreshing yet indulgent bite that works just as well at brunch as it does on an evening charcuterie board. And if you’re wondering about the nutritional value of nectarines, they’re a great source of antioxidants and fiber, as explained by Healthline.

Burrata may look fancy, but it’s surprisingly approachable. If you’re new to this cheese, Bon Appétit’s guide to burrata is an excellent introduction. Its rich, milky flavor and delicate texture make it ideal for pairing with fruits, herbs, and even balsamic glazes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe keeps it simple and allows the ingredients to shine. You’ll need:

• 3 ripe nectarines, halved and pitted
• 8 oz of fresh burrata cheese
• 2 tablespoons honey
• Fresh mint leaves (about 12)
• Cooking spray or light oil for the grill
• Flaky sea salt, like Maldon

Optional Enhancements:

• Crushed pistachios or almonds for crunch
• A drizzle of balsamic glaze
• A few slices of prosciutto for a salty contrast
• Baby arugula or microgreens for freshness

Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions

Making grilled nectarines with burrata and honey is quick and easy. Here’s how to do it:

1. Preheat the Grill: Use a grill pan or outdoor grill and bring it to medium-high heat.
2. Prepare the Nectarines: Spray the cut sides of the nectarines lightly with cooking spray or brush with oil to prevent sticking.
3. Grill the Nectarines: Place nectarines cut-side down and grill for 4–5 minutes, until grill marks appear and the fruit is tender.
4. Prepare the Burrata: While the nectarines are grilling, drain the burrata and slice it into even portions.
5. Assemble the Dish: Arrange grilled nectarines cut-side up on a serving platter. Place burrata slices on top or to the side of each half.
6. Finishing Touches: Drizzle with honey, add torn mint leaves, and sprinkle with flaky sea salt. Add optional toppings as desired.

Why This Dish Works: The Science of Flavor and Texture

What makes this dish so appealing is its balance of opposing elements:

• Sweet (nectarines, honey)
• Creamy and savory (burrata)
• Fresh and herbal (mint)
• Warm and smoky (from grilling)

That contrast of warm fruit and cool cheese plays a big role in how we perceive flavors. The sugars caramelize when grilled, while burrata’s richness mellows the sweetness, making it satisfying without being cloying.

Serving Ideas and Presentation Tips

This dish can stand alone or be transformed into multiple other creations. Try:

• Serving atop toasted sourdough crostini
• Arranging on a platter with prosciutto and arugula for an Italian-style antipasto
• Adding to a summer charcuterie board with nuts, crackers, and pickles
• Pairing with wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Moscato

For a dessert variation, top the nectarines with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream instead of burrata and finish with crushed almonds.

Nutritional Breakdown

A serving of this dish (approximately one grilled nectarine half with burrata and toppings) contains:

• About 160 calories
• 8g fat (mostly from the burrata)
• 7g protein
• 13g sugar (mostly natural from the fruit and honey)

You can reduce calories by using half the burrata or swapping in a lower-fat cheese like fresh mozzarella.

Pro Tips for Perfect Grilled Nectarines

Avoid common mistakes and elevate your result with these tips:

• Use ripe but firm nectarines—too soft and they’ll fall apart on the grill.
• Don’t over-grill. You want caramelization, not mush.
• Let the burrata sit out for 10 minutes before serving so it’s at room temperature and ultra creamy.
• Mint should be torn, not chopped, to avoid bruising and maintain flavor.

For further guidance on grilling stone fruit, check out these practical grilling fruit tips from Serious Eats.

Storage and Leftovers

This dish is best served fresh but can be prepped slightly in advance:

• Grill nectarines up to 1 day ahead and store them in an airtight container in the fridge
• Burrata should be added just before serving
• Leftovers can be chopped and added to a salad with arugula and toasted nuts

Creative Variations

Want to personalize this dish? Here are a few unique twists:

• Southwest Fusion: Add a jalapeño-infused honey drizzle and fresh cilantro
• Italian Style: Serve with prosciutto and arugula, a classic flavor match
• Dessert Angle: Skip mint, add vanilla ice cream and sprinkle with cinnamon

For plant-based versions, swap burrata for vegan cashew cheese and use agave instead of honey.

FAQs About Grilled Nectarines and Burrata

Can you grill nectarines?
Yes! They hold up well on the grill and develop deeper sweetness when lightly charred.

What is burrata cheese used for?
Burrata is often served in salads, on toast, or with roasted vegetables and fruits like nectarines or tomatoes.

Is burrata healthy?
Burrata is rich in protein and calcium but also high in fat. Enjoy in moderation.

What fruits go well with burrata?
Figs, peaches, plums, and even berries pair beautifully with burrata due to their natural sweetness.

Can this dish be made ahead?
You can grill nectarines ahead of time, but burrata should be added fresh just before serving for best texture.

How do you keep nectarines from sticking to the grill?
Brush or spray them with light oil before grilling and don’t move them too early. Let them sear.

Final Thoughts

Grilled nectarines with burrata and honey is more than just a seasonal dish—it’s a flavor celebration. With minimal prep and maximum elegance, it’s the kind of recipe that surprises and delights every time. Whether you’re hosting a backyard dinner or just treating yourself on a warm evening, this dish deserves a spot on your summer rotation.

Let the sweetness of stone fruit, the creamy indulgence of burrata, and the warmth of honey become your go-to summer flavor trio.

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