Delicious Peach Melba: Fresh Peaches, Raspberries, and Ice Cream

If you're looking for a dessert that is a beautiful blend of sweet and tangy, then this Peach Melba recipe is the perfect pick! With juicy peaches, vibrant raspberries, and a smooth scoop of vanilla ice cream, it offers a luxurious mix of textures and flavors. The tang of the raspberry sauce melds beautifully with the sweetness of ripe peaches, creating a refreshing and indulgent experience in every bite.

Photo byNick Davies

The first time I had Peach Melba was during a family gathering, where it was served as the grand finale to a summer BBQ. The flavors were so simple yet striking, and ever since, it has been a go-to dessert whenever peaches are in season. I’m excited to share this easy Peach Melba recipe, so you can bring the same sweet joy to your table!

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s talk about the origins of this iconic dessert. Did you know that Peach Melba was created by the famous French chef Auguste Escoffier in honor of Australian opera singer Nellie Melba in the late 19th century? The classic pairing of poached peaches with raspberry purée and vanilla ice cream made it a favorite in fine dining. Today, it remains a timeless dessert, perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a simple sweet treat at home.

Ingredients:

• 4 ripe peaches (peeled and halved)
• 1 pint vanilla ice cream
• 1 cup fresh raspberries
• ¼ cup sugar
• ½ cup water
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Optional: fresh mint leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Poach the peaches: In a medium saucepan, bring water and sugar to a boil, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Add lemon juice. Gently lower the peach halves into the liquid and reduce to a simmer. Let the peaches poach for about 3-5 minutes until tender. Remove from heat and allow them to cool in the syrup.
2. Prepare the raspberry sauce: In a blender or food processor, purée the raspberries with a tablespoon of sugar (adjust sweetness to taste). Strain the mixture through a fine sieve to remove the seeds, leaving you with a smooth, tangy sauce.
3. Serve: Place two poached peach halves in a bowl, scoop some vanilla ice cream on top, and drizzle generously with the fresh raspberry sauce. Garnish with a few mint leaves for an added touch of elegance.

Tips for the Perfect Peach Melba:

• Peaches: Use ripe but firm peaches. If peaches aren’t in season, canned peaches work well, too—just be sure to drain them properly.
• Raspberry Sauce: Adjust the sugar in the raspberry sauce according to your preference, especially if you like it more tart.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the poached peaches and raspberry sauce ahead of time. Simply store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to assemble the dessert.
• Variation: Want to add a little crunch? Sprinkle some crushed nuts like almonds or pistachios on top for texture.

This easy Peach Melba recipe is ideal for summer gatherings, afternoon treats, or even an elegant dessert after dinner. The contrast of warm, poached peaches with the cold ice cream and the tangy raspberry sauce is a delightful way to end any meal.

If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to follow me for more delicious and easy-to-make desserts. Also, feel free to share your version of this classic dessert in the comments—I'd love to hear how you make it your own!