Pin Bold, elegant, and delightfully simple, these balsamic-goat cheese grilled plums are caramelized over an open flame and finished with creamy goat cheese and a tangy balsamic glaze. This dish strikes a perfect balance between sweet and savory, making it an ideal choice for a sophisticated appetizer or a light summer dessert.
Pin Grilling stone fruit like plums intensifies their natural sugars, creating a jammy texture that pairs beautifully with the richness of fresh goat cheese. The addition of fresh mint or basil provides a burst of color and a refreshing aromatic finish that ties the whole dish together.
Ingredients
- 4 ripe but firm plums, halved and pitted
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 100 g (about 3.5 oz) fresh goat cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh mint or basil (optional)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 60 ml (1/4 cup) balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey
Instructions
- Step 1
- Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
- Step 2
- Brush the cut sides of the plum halves with olive oil.
- Step 3
- Place the plums cut side down on the grill. Grill for 3–4 minutes until grill marks appear and the fruit softens slightly. Flip and grill for another 2–3 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Step 4
- In a small saucepan, combine balsamic vinegar and honey. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens to a syrupy consistency. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Step 5
- Arrange grilled plums on a platter, cut side up. Spoon or pipe a dollop of goat cheese onto each half.
- Step 6
- Drizzle with the balsamic glaze. Sprinkle with fresh mint or basil and a touch of black pepper, if desired. Serve immediately.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To ensure the best texture, use a basting brush to evenly coat the plums with oil before they hit the grill. Utilizing a small saucepan for the balsamic reduction allows you to control the heat precisely, ensuring the glaze reaches a perfect syrupy consistency without burning.
Varianten und Anpassungen
Feel free to experiment with other stone fruits such as peaches or apricots as an alternative to plums. For a vegan-friendly version, simply substitute the goat cheese with your favorite plant-based cheese. If you prefer a different herbal note, fresh basil works just as well as mint.
Serviervorschläge
Serve these grilled plums on a beautiful platter for maximum visual impact. They pair wonderfully with a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a crisp Prosecco. For a complete presentation, consider piping the goat cheese to give each plum half a clean, restaurant-quality look.
Pin Whether you are hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a quick yet elegant weeknight treat, these grilled plums are a versatile addition to your repertoire. Serve them immediately while the fruit is warm for the ultimate contrast against the softened goat cheese.
Recipe Q&A
- → Can I use other fruits instead of plums?
Yes, peaches or apricots work wonderfully as alternatives. Choose ripe but firm fruits that will hold their shape on the grill.
- → How do I know when the balsamic glaze is ready?
The glaze is ready when it coats the back of a spoon and has a syrupy consistency. This typically takes 3–4 minutes of simmering after it reaches a gentle boil.
- → Can I make this dish vegan?
Absolutely. Simply substitute the goat cheese with your favorite plant-based cheese alternative for a completely vegan version.
- → What wine pairs well with grilled plums?
A chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Prosecco complements the sweet-tangy flavors beautifully. The acidity cuts through the richness of the cheese while enhancing the fruit.
- → Can I prepare components ahead of time?
The balsamic glaze can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Grill the plums just before serving for the best texture and presentation.
- → Do I need an outdoor grill for this?
No, a grill pan works perfectly well on your stovetop. Heat it to medium-high and follow the same grilling times for excellent results.