Peach Melba (Peaches with Raspberry Sauce and Ice Cream) Recipe

If you’re looking for a dessert that marries simplicity with elegance, look no further than Peach Melba. This timeless classic brings together the delicate sweetness of ripe peaches, the tartness of raspberries, and the creamy richness of vanilla ice cream. This delightful combination not only pleases the palate but also creates a visual masterpiece on your dessert table. When I first made this dish for my family, the response was overwhelmingly positive. The balance of flavors was perfect, and the vibrant colors made it a visual delight. It’s a dessert that seems fancy, yet is incredibly easy to make, making it a favorite in our household.

Ingredients

To create the perfect Peach Melba, you’ll need a selection of fresh and high-quality ingredients. The star of the dish is, of course, the peach, which should be ripe but firm to ensure it holds its shape during cooking. You’ll need:

• 4 ripe peaches
• 1 cup fresh or frozen raspberries
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Vanilla ice cream (enough for serving)

These ingredients come together to form a symphony of flavors that is both refreshing and indulgent. The peaches provide a natural sweetness and juicy texture, while the raspberry sauce adds a layer of tartness that perfectly complements the creamy ice cream.

Instructions

Creating Peach Melba is a straightforward process that can be broken down into a few simple steps:

1. Prepare the Peaches: Start by bringing a pot of water to a boil. Score the bottom of each peach with a small ‘X’ and gently lower them into the boiling water for about 30 seconds. This process will make peeling them much easier. Remove the peaches with a slotted spoon and immediately transfer them to an ice bath to cool. Once cooled, peel the skins off and cut the peaches in half, removing the pits.
2. Make the Raspberry Sauce: In a small saucepan, combine the raspberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the raspberries break down and the sauce thickens, about 10 minutes. Strain the sauce through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the seeds, if desired. Stir in the vanilla extract and set aside to cool.
3. Assemble the Dessert: Place two peach halves in a serving bowl or plate. Top with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream, and drizzle the raspberry sauce over the top. The contrast of warm fruit, cold ice cream, and rich sauce is divine.

This method of preparation ensures that each component of the dish is highlighted, creating a dessert that tastes as good as it looks. The vibrant hues of the sauce and the creamy texture of the ice cream against the soft peaches are simply irresistible.

Nutrition Facts

Understanding the nutritional content of your food is important, especially when indulging in desserts. This recipe for Peach Melba serves four people. Each serving contains approximately 250 calories, depending on the size of your peaches and the amount of ice cream used. The dessert is relatively low in calories compared to other sweet treats, making it a guilt-free pleasure for those mindful of their intake.

Preparation Time

One of the best things about Peach Melba is its quick preparation time, making it ideal for both planned dinners and spontaneous gatherings. The entire process, from preparation to serving, takes about 30 minutes. This includes the time needed to peel and prepare the peaches, make the raspberry sauce, and assemble the final dish. With such a short prep time, you can spend more time enjoying the company of your guests and less time in the kitchen.

How to Serve

Serving Peach Melba can be as simple or as elaborate as you desire. Here are some ideas to inspire you:

• Serve in a tall glass for a parfait-style presentation, layering the peaches, ice cream, and raspberry sauce.
• Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and added freshness.
• Sprinkle with toasted almonds or crushed pistachios for a crunchy texture.
• Add a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
• Serve alongside a slice of sponge cake or shortbread for a more substantial dessert.

Each serving suggestion offers a unique twist, allowing you to customize the dessert to match the occasion or your personal taste preferences.

Additional Tips

Here are some additional tips to ensure your Peach Melba is always a hit:

1. Choose the Right Peaches: Opt for peaches that are in season and at their peak ripeness for the best flavor.
2. Experiment with Different Fruits: While peaches are traditional, you can try using nectarines or apricots for a different take on the recipe.
3. Make Ahead: Prepare the raspberry sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days, allowing you to focus on other parts of your meal.
4. Adjust the Sweetness: Depending on the sweetness of your fruit, you may need to adjust the sugar levels in the raspberry sauce.
5. Use High-Quality Ice Cream: The quality of your ice cream can significantly impact the final taste, so choose a brand known for its creamy texture and rich flavor.

These tips will help you perfect the art of making Peach Melba, ensuring every serving is a delicious success.

FAQ Section

Here are some frequently asked questions about Peach Melba:

1. Can I use frozen peaches? Yes, you can use frozen peaches if fresh ones are not in season. Just be sure to thaw them completely before using.
2. Is there an alternative to vanilla ice cream? Absolutely! You can use yogurt or sorbet for a lighter option, or explore other ice cream flavors that complement peaches and raspberries.
3. How do I store leftovers? If you have leftovers, store the peaches and raspberry sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Consume within two days for best quality.
4. Can I make it dairy-free? Yes, replace the vanilla ice cream with a non-dairy alternative like coconut or almond milk ice cream.
5. What can I do with leftover raspberry sauce? The sauce is versatile and can be used as a topping for pancakes, waffles, or even as a filling for pastries.

These answers should help address any concerns or curiosities you might have about making and enjoying Peach Melba. This dessert is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, and with the right approach, it can become a staple in your dessert repertoire.