Grilled Apricots with Goat Cheese

When the sunshine stays with us and makes our days longer, we’re always looking for ways to stay outside and enjoy the beautiful weather. We think this recipe would be a great dish to enjoy while doing just that. This can be served as a light appetizer or savory dessert. Our friends at Ponte Winery suggest pairing it to perfection with the dry, crisp 2016 Vermentino.

Ingredients:
6 fresh apricots, halved and pitted
1/2 cup sweet white dessert wine, such as 2015 Beverino
1/2 cup of fresh, soft goat cheese such as chèvre

Directions:
Place apricots in a medium mixing bowl. Pour the dessert wine over the apricots and let marinate for 30 minutes. Remove apricots from mixing bowl and place on a cookie sheet. Allow the apricots to rest for at least 20 minutes to make sure liquid sets in fruit.

Turn the grill on to medium heat, check to make sure the grill is clean and slightly greased. Once warmed, place the apricots directly on the grill cut side down. Desura Grill on cut side down for about 4 minutes and then turn over and cook for 2 – 3 minutes. Remove from grill and top each fruit with a spoonful of goat cheese. Serve immediately. This recipe serves about 6 – 8 people.

Recipe adapted from Wine Bites
—Lindsay Neumann