Balsamic Goat Cheese Grilled Plums (Printable)

Caramelized plums with goat cheese and balsamic glaze—bold, elegant, and ready in just 18 minutes.

# What You'll Need:

→ Plums

01 - 4 ripe but firm plums, halved and pitted
02 - 1 tablespoon olive oil

→ Cheese & Garnish

03 - 3.5 ounces fresh goat cheese, softened
04 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint or basil, optional
05 - Freshly ground black pepper to taste

→ Balsamic Glaze

06 - 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
07 - 1 tablespoon honey

# How-To Steps:

01 - Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
02 - Brush the cut sides of the plum halves with olive oil.
03 - Place the plums cut side down on the grill. Grill for 3 to 4 minutes until grill marks appear and the fruit softens slightly. Flip and grill for another 2 to 3 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
04 - 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 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens to a syrupy consistency. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
05 - Arrange grilled plums on a platter, cut side up. Spoon or pipe a dollop of goat cheese onto each half.
06 - Drizzle with the balsamic glaze. Sprinkle with fresh mint or basil and a touch of black pepper if desired. Serve immediately.

# Top Tips:

01 -
  • It looks like you spent hours when really it takes less time than waiting for takeout.
  • The contrast between warm caramelized fruit and cool tangy goat cheese is pure magic on your tongue.
  • You can serve it as a showstopping appetizer or a guilt free dessert without changing a thing.
  • Even people who claim they don't like fruit for dinner ask for seconds.
02 -
  • Don't skip letting the goat cheese soften or you'll end up with cold crumbly bits instead of creamy melty goodness.
  • Watch the balsamic glaze closely in the last minute because it can go from perfect to burnt syrup faster than you think.
  • If your plums are very ripe, reduce the grilling time by a minute or two or they'll fall apart on you.
03 -
  • Make the balsamic glaze ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to two weeks, it's great on everything from salads to roasted vegetables.
  • Use a piping bag or a small spoon to dollop the goat cheese neatly, it makes the presentation look polished without any extra effort.
  • If you don't have a grill, a cast iron skillet over high heat works just as well and gives you similar caramelization.
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