Grilled Apricots with Thyme
Sweet, juicy apricots kissed by the grill until caramelized and smoky, finished with fragrant fresh thyme. This simple Mediterranean-inspired dessert or side comes together in minutes and tastes like summer on a plate.
For 4 servings
- prep · ~5 min
Preheat the grill.
Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill over medium-high heat until hot. You want visible heat waves for proper caramelization.
TIPA hot grill is key — apricots need high heat to develop char marks before they go mushy. - prep · ~2 min
Halve and pit the apricots.
Slice each apricot along its natural seam, twist open, and remove the pit. Leave the skins on for structure during grilling.
- mix · ~1 min
Toss apricots with oil and seasonings.
In a mixing bowl, gently toss the apricot halves with olive oil, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
- grill · ~5 min
Grill the apricots cut-side down.
1.Place apricot halves cut-side down on the hot grill.2.Grill undisturbed for 3 minutes until deep char marks appear.3.Flip and grill the skin side for 2 minutes more.4.Remove to a serving plate once softened and caramelized.TIPDon't move the apricots in the first two minutes — they need to sear and release naturally from the grates. - assemble · ~1 min
Drizzle with honey and scatter thyme.
Arrange grilled apricot halves on a serving plate. Drizzle honey over the warm fruit and sprinkle with fresh thyme leaves.
- serve
Serve warm or at room temperature.
These apricots are best enjoyed shortly after grilling while still warm, but they're also lovely at room temperature.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Choose apricots that are ripe but still firm — too soft and they'll fall apart on the grill.
- 2Let the grill get ripping hot before adding the apricots for maximum caramelization.
- 3Don't overcrowd the grill; leave space between halves so heat circulates and char forms.
- 4Resist the urge to flip early — apricots need a full 3 minutes on the cut side to develop deep marks.
- 5Serve right away while the honey is warm and runny for the best texture contrast.
Adapt it for your goals.
Herb swap
Replace thyme with fresh rosemary or mint for a different aromatic profile — rosemary adds a piney note, mint keeps it fresh and bright.
spicedSpiced
Add a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom to the honey for a warm, fragrant twist that complements the apricots' sweetness.
dairy toppingDairy topping
Serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt, labneh, or mascarpone for a creamy contrast that balances the smoky char.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Vitamin A
Apricots are packed with beta-carotene, which the body converts into vitamin A for healthy vision and immune function.
Antioxidant Support
The high heat of grilling concentrates the apricots' natural antioxidants, and the olive oil adds polyphenols that fight inflammation.
Heart-Healthy Fats
Extra virgin olive oil provides monounsaturated fats that support cardiovascular health when used in place of saturated fats.
Frequently asked questions
Fresh apricots are best here — canned ones are too soft and will fall apart on the grill. If you must, drain them well and grill for half the time.
