Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a beautiful and unexpected pairing of flavors that brings out the best in each ingredient. The tartness of fresh apricots works wonderfully with the creamy richness of goat cheese, while the floral notes of lavender honey provide an aromatic sweetness that ties it all together. It’s a quick and easy dish to prepare yet feels sophisticated enough for a dinner party or special occasion. It’s a versatile recipe that can be enjoyed as an appetizer, dessert, or even a refreshing snack.

Ingredients

6-8 ripe apricots, halved and pitted
4 oz goat cheese, softened
2 tablespoons lavender honey (or regular honey, if you prefer)
Fresh thyme or rosemary for garnish (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Apricots: Wash the apricots thoroughly, then cut them in half and remove the pits. If the apricots are large, you can cut them into quarters.
Prepare the Goat Cheese: In a small bowl, soften the goat cheese with a fork until it becomes smooth and spreadable.
Assemble the Dish: Place the apricot halves on a serving platter. Using a spoon or small knife, add a dollop of goat cheese to the center of each apricot half.
Drizzle with Lavender Honey: Drizzle each apricot and goat cheese combination with a little lavender honey for a sweet and floral finish.
Garnish: Optional: Garnish with a small sprig of fresh thyme or rosemary to add a fresh herbal note.
Serve: Serve immediately, or chill briefly in the refrigerator before serving if you prefer a colder dish.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves about 4 people as an appetizer or dessert.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes

Variations

Add Nuts: Top each apricot half with a crushed nut like pistachios, almonds, or walnuts for added crunch and flavor.
Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle a little balsamic reduction or balsamic vinegar for a tangy, savory twist.
Fruit Variations: Swap the apricots for peaches or plums if apricots aren’t in season.
Add Prosciutto: For a savory touch, wrap the apricot halves in thin slices of prosciutto before adding the goat cheese.
Herb Variations: Experiment with other herbs like basil, mint, or lavender for different flavors that complement the sweetness of the apricots and honey.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover apricots with goat cheese and honey in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, they are best served fresh for optimal texture and flavor.
Reheating: This dish is best served cold or at room temperature, so reheating is not necessary.

FAQs

1. Can I use other fruits besides apricots?

Yes, you can use other fruits like peaches, nectarines, plums, or even figs, which all pair wonderfully with goat cheese and honey.

2. Is lavender honey the only honey I can use?

While lavender honey adds a unique and aromatic flavor, you can substitute it with regular honey, agave nectar, or even maple syrup if you prefer.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the apricots and goat cheese in advance and store them separately in the refrigerator. Drizzle the honey just before serving to prevent it from soaking into the cheese.

4. Can I use a different type of cheese?

If you don’t like goat cheese, you can substitute it with cream cheese, ricotta, or mascarpone for a different but equally creamy texture.

5. How can I make this recipe vegan?

To make this dish vegan, use a plant-based cheese alternative and substitute the honey with agave syrup or maple syrup.

6. Can I grill the apricots?

Yes, grilling the apricots can enhance their flavor and give them a smoky note. Just grill them for 1-2 minutes on each side, then top with goat cheese and honey.

7. How can I make this dish sweeter?

If you prefer a sweeter dish, add a bit more honey or use a sweeter variety of honey, like clover honey.

8. Can I serve this as a salad?

Yes, you can turn this into a salad by adding arugula, spinach, or mixed greens as a base, then placing the apricots with goat cheese on top. Drizzle with additional honey or a balsamic vinaigrette.

9. Can I use dried apricots?

Fresh apricots are best for this recipe, but you can use dried apricots if needed. Just be sure to hydrate them in warm water before using them as a substitute.

10. How can I add a bit more texture to the dish?

You can add a sprinkling of granola, toasted breadcrumbs, or crushed nuts to the top of each apricot half for additional texture and crunch.

Conclusion

Fresh Apricots with Goat Cheese and Lavender Honey is a light and sophisticated dish that combines fresh, fruity sweetness with the creamy richness of goat cheese and the fragrant touch of lavender honey. It’s a versatile recipe that can be enjoyed as an appetizer, dessert, or snack. Whether you serve it on its own, pair it with a fresh salad, or top it with crunchy nuts, this dish is sure to impress with its vibrant colors, flavors, and textures. Enjoy this sweet and savory treat for a delightful, elevated culinary experience!

Fresh Apricots with Goat Cheese and Lavender Honey

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Fresh Apricots with Goat Cheese and Lavender Honey is a simple yet elegant dish that combines sweet apricots, creamy goat cheese, and fragrant lavender honey for a perfect balance of flavors. Ideal as an appetizer, dessert, or snack.

Author: Laura
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: undefined
Total Time: 10 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Category: Appetizer
Method: Assembling
Cuisine: Fusion
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

6-8 ripe apricots, halved and pitted

4 oz goat cheese, softened

2 tablespoons lavender honey (or regular honey, if you prefer)

Fresh thyme or rosemary for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Prepare the Apricots: Wash the apricots, cut them in half, and remove the pits. If the apricots are large, you can cut them into quarters.

Prepare the Goat Cheese: In a small bowl, soften the goat cheese with a fork until smooth and spreadable.
Assemble the Dish: Place the apricot halves on a serving platter and add a dollop of goat cheese to the center of each apricot half.
Drizzle with Lavender Honey: Drizzle each apricot and goat cheese combination with a little lavender honey for a sweet and floral finish.
Garnish: Garnish with fresh thyme or rosemary for added flavor (optional).
Serve: Serve immediately, or chill briefly in the refrigerator before serving if preferred cold.

Notes

For a savory twist, add prosciutto wrapped around the apricot halves before adding goat cheese.
If using larger apricots, consider cutting them into quarters for bite-sized pieces.
Grilled apricots can also be used for a smokier flavor.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/4 of the recipe
Calories: 150
Sugar: 12g
Sodium: 110mg
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 25mg