Balsamic Goat Cheese Grilled Plums (Printable Version)

Caramelized plums with goat cheese and balsamic glaze—ready in 18 minutes for appetizer or dessert.

# 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

# Step-by-Step Directions:

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.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It takes less than 20 minutes but tastes like you spent all afternoon in the kitchen.
  • The smoky char from the grill brings out a deep sweetness you just cant get any other way.
  • You can serve it as an appetizer with wine or as dessert with vanilla ice cream.
  • The tangy goat cheese and balsamic glaze balance the fruit so perfectly it feels almost fancy.
02 -
  • Do not walk away from the grill once the plums go on, they can go from caramelized to burnt in seconds.
  • Let the balsamic glaze cool for a minute or two before drizzling, or it will be too runny and slide right off.
  • If your goat cheese is cold and crumbly, let it sit out for 15 minutes so it softens and becomes easy to dollop.
03 -
  • Oil the grill grates lightly with a paper towel dipped in oil before placing the plums to prevent any sticking.
  • Make the balsamic glaze ahead and store it in a jar, it keeps for weeks and is amazing on everything from salads to roasted vegetables.
  • If you do not have a grill, a cast iron grill pan on the stovetop works just as well and gives you the same caramelized char.
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