Pies, Tarts and Desserts
Grilled Apricots with Raspberries and Mascarpone
This dessert captures the essence of summer by caramelizing peak-season apricots on the grill to intensify their honeyed flavor. Served alongside vibrant raspberries and a cloud of velvet-smooth mascarpone, it is a sophisticated yet effortless way to end a garden dinner.
- Prep
- 15 min
- Cook
- 10 min
- Serves
- 4
- Level
- Easy
- Per serving
- 325 kcal
Method
In a medium chilled bowl, combine the mascarpone, 2 tablespoons of the honey, and the vanilla bean paste. Whisk vigorously by hand for about 1-2 minutes until the mixture is light and holds soft peaks. Set aside in the refrigerator.
Preheat your grill or a cast-iron grill pan to medium-high heat. Ensure the grates are clean to prevent sticking.
Brush the cut sides of the apricot halves lightly with the melted butter. This helps with caramelization and prevents the fruit from tearing.
Place the apricots cut-side down onto the hot grill. Cook undisturbed for 3 to 5 minutes, or until deep char marks appear and the fruit begins to soften but still holds its shape. Flip and cook for just 30 seconds on the skin side.
To assemble, place four warm apricot halves in each serving bowl. Spoon a generous dollop of the whipped mascarpone into the center of each fruit cavity or over the top.
Scatter the fresh raspberries and crushed pistachios over the apricots. Drizzle with the remaining tablespoon of honey and garnish with torn mint leaves. Serve immediately while the fruit is warm and the cream is cool.
Notes
Choose apricots that are firm-ripe; overripe fruit will collapse and become mushy on the grill.
For a dairy-free version, substitute the mascarpone with the solid cream from a chilled tin of full-fat coconut milk, whipped in the same manner.
If your raspberries are particularly tart, toss them with a teaspoon of sugar and a squeeze of lemon 10 minutes before serving to release their juices.
Add a pinch of flaky sea salt over the finished dish to enhance the sweetness of the honey and the richness of the cheese.