One of the simplest ways to transform ripe plums is to roast them. A little heat concentrates their flavor, while honey and thyme create a fragrant syrup in the bottom of the pan.
Serve the plums warm with vanilla ice cream for dessert, spoon them over yogurt for breakfast, or pair them with ricotta, mascarpone, or goat cheese.
INGREDIENTS:
8 ripe but firm plums
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
Pinch of salt
1 tablespoon unsalted butter, cut into small pieces, optional
METHOD:
Heat oven to 400°F.
Cut the plums in half and remove the pits. Arrange the plums cut-side up in a baking dish.
Drizzle with honey and lemon juice. Sprinkle with lemon zest, thyme, and a small pinch of salt.
Dot with butter, if using.
Roast for 18 to 25 minutes, depending on the firmness of the fruit, until the plums are tender but still hold their shape and their juices have formed a light syrup in the pan.
Serve warm or at room temperature, spooning the pan juices over the fruit.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS:
- Breakfast: Greek yogurt, granola, or oatmeal
- Dessert: Vanilla ice cream, mascarpone, crème fraîche, or pound cake
- Cheese course: Fresh ricotta, goat cheese, Brie, or blue cheese
- Savory dishes: Roast pork, duck, or chicken
