Balsamic Goat Cheese Grilled Plums

# Ingredient List:

→ Plums

01 - 4 ripe but firm plums, halved and pitted

02 - 1 tablespoon olive oil

→ Cheese and 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.

# Expert Advice:

01 -

It takes less than twenty minutes but tastes like you planned it for days.
The contrast between warm fruit, cool cheese, and glossy glaze feels like a little luxury on a regular Tuesday.
You can swing it savory for a starter or lean sweet for dessert without changing a thing.
Grilling fruit brings out a depth you just don't get from raw, and the char adds drama to every bite.

02 -

Do not walk away from the glaze, it goes from perfect to burnt in about thirty seconds.
Let the plums sit undisturbed on the grill or they will tear when you try to flip them.
Room temperature goat cheese is easier to dollop and melts just slightly from the warmth of the fruit.

03 -