The salmon is simply grilled — only with salt, pepper and olive oil. That’s okay, though, because we toss nectarines in maple syrup mixed with a pinch of red pepper flakes and grill them. Everything comes together on a bed of couscous with fresh basil and a dollop of goat cheese on top.
How to Cook Salmon and Nectarines on the Grill
You can grill salmon one of two ways — outside or indoors using a cast iron grill pan. If you are outside, prepare the grill for cooking over medium-hot charcoal or moderate heat for gas grills. For an indoor cast iron grill pan it should be lightly oiled, well-seasoned and over medium-high heat. To prepare the salmon, rub with a little olive oil then season with salt and pepper. Grill the salmon, 5 to 6 minutes on each side (depending on thickness). While the salmon grills, thrown on some nectarines or peaches. To grill them, remove the pit then cut into wedges. Toss with a little olive oil then add some maple syrup and a pinch of red pepper flakes — this makes them a little sweet with a spicy kick. Throw them onto the grill and cook until you begin to see grill marks and they are warmed through — about 2 minutes on each side. Recipe updated, originally posted September 2011. Since posting this in 2011, we have tweaked the recipe to be more clear. – Adam and Joanne Olive oil Salt and fresh ground black pepper 1 medium nectarine, pit removed and cut into wedges 1 tablespoon maple syrup 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes 1 cup cooked couscous or rice 2 ounces fresh goat cheese Handful basil leaves, chopped 2Wipe salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Brush on both sides with olive oil. Season with salt and black pepper. Grill the salmon, turning once and cooking for five to six minutes on each side, or until it can easily be flaked with a fork. (If you have one, take the salmon off the heat when an internal thermometer reads 135 degrees F). 3Meanwhile, toss nectarine wedges with a teaspoon of olive oil, the maple syrup and crushed red pepper flakes. Place onto the grill and cook until warmed through and grill marks appear, about 2 minutes on each side. 4Serve salmon on a bed of rice or couscous topped with grilled nectarines, a few crumbles of goat cheese and fresh basil.
