Description
Delight in the perfect balance of sweet and savory with these Grilled Apricots topped with creamy whipped goat cheese and a fragrant thyme-honey glaze. This easy-to-make appetizer features tender apricots caramelized on the grill, complemented by smooth goat cheese and toasted almonds for an elegant, flavorful treat.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Grilled Apricots
- 4 ripe but firm apricots, halved and pitted
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Pinch of sea salt
For the Whipped Goat Cheese
- 150g (5 oz) soft goat cheese
- 2 tbsp cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- Salt & pepper, to taste
For the Thyme-Honey Glaze
- 3 tbsp honey
- 3–4 sprigs fresh thyme
For Garnish
- 2 tbsp sliced almonds, toasted until golden
- Extra thyme leaves or edible flowers (optional)
Instructions
- Prep the Grill and Apricots: Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Brush the apricot halves with olive oil and sprinkle lightly with sea salt.
- Grill the Apricots: Place apricots cut-side down on the grill. Grill for 2–3 minutes until caramelized and marked with clear grill lines. Remove and set aside.
- Make the Whipped Goat Cheese: In a mixing bowl or food processor, combine goat cheese, cream or Greek yogurt, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Whip until smooth and fluffy. Chill until ready to serve.
- Prepare the Thyme-Honey Glaze: In a small saucepan, warm honey with fresh thyme sprigs over low heat for 3–5 minutes to infuse the flavor. Remove from heat and let steep until slightly cooled.
- Assemble the Dish: Spoon and swirl the whipped goat cheese onto a serving plate. Arrange the grilled apricot halves on top.
- Finish and Garnish: Drizzle the thyme-honey glaze over the apricots and cheese. Scatter toasted sliced almonds on top. Garnish with extra thyme leaves or edible flowers if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Choose ripe but firm apricots to ensure they hold shape on the grill.
- Greek yogurt can be used instead of cream for a tangier whipped cheese and lighter texture.
- To toast almonds evenly, place them in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently until golden and fragrant.
- The thyme-honey glaze can be prepared ahead and kept warm or at room temperature.
- For a vegan version, substitute goat cheese with a plant-based soft cheese alternative and use agave syrup instead of honey.
