Description

Delight in the sweet and savory flavors of grilled apricots paired with creamy whipped goat cheese and a fragrant thyme-honey glaze. This easy yet elegant appetizer combines caramelized apricot halves, airy goat cheese, and aromatic honey infused with fresh thyme, topped with toasted almonds for a satisfying crunch. Perfect for a light summer starter or a sophisticated snack.

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)

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Instructions

Prepare 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. Place them cut-side down on the grill and cook for 2–3 minutes until caramelized and marked with clear grill lines. Remove and set aside.
Whip the Goat Cheese: In a mixing bowl or food processor, combine the soft goat cheese, cream or Greek yogurt, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Whip until smooth and fluffy. Chill until ready to assemble.
Infuse the Thyme-Honey Glaze: In a small saucepan over low heat, warm the honey with fresh thyme sprigs for 3–5 minutes to infuse the aroma and flavor. Remove from heat and allow to steep until it has slightly cooled.
Assemble the Dish: Spoon and swirl the whipped goat cheese onto a serving plate as a base. Arrange the grilled apricot halves on top delicately.
Finish and Garnish: Drizzle the thyme-infused honey glaze generously over the apricots and cheese. Scatter the toasted sliced almonds over the top and garnish with extra thyme leaves or edible flowers if desired. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.

Notes

Choose ripe but firm apricots to ensure they hold together on the grill without becoming too soft.
Use Greek yogurt as a lighter alternative to cream for the whipped goat cheese.
To toast almonds, heat them in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden and fragrant, stirring frequently.
This recipe can be prepared ahead by whipping the goat cheese and infusing the honey, then assembling just before serving.
For a vegan version, substitute goat cheese with a plant-based cheese alternative and use agave syrup instead of honey.