Summer has arrived, and with it comes a burst of juicy, sweet, and tangy flavors from the garden. One of our favorite ingredients to enjoy during this season is the Italian plum, a type of prune that’s perfect for snacking, cooking, and baking. With its rich, almost jam-like flavor, the Italian plum can be used in a variety of delicious recipes, from savory dishes to sweet treats.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouth-watering Italian plum recipes that are perfect for warm weather. From classic desserts like tarts and cakes to refreshing salads and even savory flatbreads, there’s something for everyone on this list. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just looking for some inspiration for your next meal, these recipes are sure to satisfy your taste buds.
Italian Plum and Ricotta Tart
Italian Plum and Ricotta Tart Recipe
This sweet and savory tart combines the flavors of Italy’s finest ingredients: ripe plums, creamy ricotta cheese, and crispy pastry crust. Perfect for a warm summer evening or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 package puff pastry, thawed
– 1 cup fresh plums, sliced
– 8 oz ricotta cheese
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese with honey, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
4. Arrange plum slices on one half of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border.
5. Spread ricotta mixture evenly over plums.
6. Fold other half of pastry over filling, pressing edges to seal.
7. Brush with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with a little water) and sprinkle with confectioners’ sugar (optional).
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Roasted Italian Plums with Honey and Thyme
Roasted Italian Plums with Honey and Thyme: A sweet and savory treat that highlights the flavors of ripe plums, fragrant thyme, and golden honey.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 Italian plums (such as Greengage or Damson)
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the plums and cut them in half, removing any stems or leaves.
3. Place the plum halves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle the honey evenly over the plums, making sure each one is coated.
5. Sprinkle the dried thyme over the plums, dividing it evenly among them.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Roast the plums in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they’re tender and caramelized.
8. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Italian Plum Jam with Vanilla Bean
Italian Plum Jam with Vanilla Bean Recipe
This sweet and tangy jam is a perfect accompaniment to toast, yogurt, or as a topping for ice cream or cakes. The addition of vanilla bean adds a creamy and aromatic flavor that complements the plums beautifully.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Italian prunes (or other sweet plums), pitted
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 teaspoon lemon juice
– 1 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the plums, sugar, water, and lemon juice.
2. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the plums are tender and the mixture has thickened.
3. Remove from heat and let steep for at least 1 hour, allowing the flavors to meld together.
4. Strain the jam through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl, discarding the vanilla bean and solids.
5. Return the jam to the saucepan and simmer over low heat for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the desired consistency is reached.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Grilled Italian Plums with Mascarpone
This recipe combines the sweetness of plums with the richness of mascarpone cheese, all wrapped up in a simple and elegant package. Perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a sweet treat any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 Italian plums (such as Greengage or Stanley), sliced into wedges
– 1/2 cup mascarpone cheese
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Fresh mint leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together mascarpone, honey, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Brush both sides of plum wedges with the mascarpone mixture.
4. Grill plums for 2-3 minutes per side, or until caramelized and tender.
5. Serve warm, garnished with fresh mint leaves.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Italian Plum and Almond Cake
This moist and flavorful cake is a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, with the sweetness of plums and the crunch of almonds.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup pureed Italian prunes (plums)
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) springform pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. Add melted butter, egg, pureed plums, and sliced almonds. Mix until just combined.
4. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
5. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Let cool in pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Italian Plums
Sweet and tangy, these Balsamic Glazed Italian Plums are a perfect dessert or snack for any occasion. With the rich flavors of balsamic vinegar and the natural sweetness of plums, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 Italian plums (such as Greengage or Damson), sliced
– 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, sugar, and salt until well combined.
3. Add sliced plums to the bowl and toss to coat with the glaze.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange plum slices in a single layer.
5. Drizzle olive oil and honey over the plums, then sprinkle with salt to taste.
6. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until plums are tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Italian Plum and Prosciutto Flatbread
Italian Plum and Prosciutto Flatbread Recipe
Savor the sweet and savory combination of caramelized Italian plums, crispy prosciutto, and fresh arugula on a perfectly toasted flatbread. This simple yet elegant appetizer or snack is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pre-made pizza dough (or homemade)
– 1/4 cup Italian plums, sliced
– 6 slices of prosciutto, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh arugula leaves
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness.
3. Top with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Arrange prosciutto slices evenly on the dough, leaving a small border around edges.
5. Caramelize Italian plums in a skillet with 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat until tender.
6. Spread caramelized plums over prosciutto layer.
7. Top with fresh arugula leaves.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
9. Slice and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Spiced Italian Plum Chutney
This sweet and tangy chutney is a perfect combination of Italian and Indian flavors, ideal for serving alongside grilled meats, naan bread, or as a topping for yogurt or ice cream. With its warm spices and plums, it’s sure to become a new favorite!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb fresh Italian plums (or substitute with another plum variety), pitted
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine plums, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, water, olive oil, cinnamon, cardamom, and cayenne pepper (if using).
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the plums are tender.
3. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Italian Plum and Rosemary Focaccia
Italian Plum and Rosemary Focaccia Recipe
Savor the sweetness of Italian plums paired with the earthy flavor of rosemary in this delicious focaccia recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup chopped Italian plums (such as Greengage or Uva di Troia)
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until the yeast is activated.
2. Add olive oil, salt, and 2 cups of flour to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Gradually add the remaining 2 cups of flour, one cup at a time, until the dough comes together in a sticky ball.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
7. Punch down the dough and transfer it to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Sprinkle chopped plums and rosemary on top of the dough.
9. Drizzle with honey and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Italian Plum Sorbet with Basil
This refreshing sorbet combines the sweetness of Italian plums with the bright flavor of basil, perfect for a warm summer evening. This unique dessert is sure to impress your guests!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups Italian plums (such as Greengage or Santa Rosa), pitted
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup water
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, puree the plums and sugar until smooth.
2. Add the water, basil leaves, and lemon juice to the plum mixture. Blend until well combined.
3. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl. Discard the solids.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Pour the chilled mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Freeze the sorbet for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a frozen dessert.
Italian Plum and Goat Cheese Salad
Italian Plum and Goat Cheese Salad Recipe
This Italian-inspired salad combines sweet and tangy flavors with creamy goat cheese and crunchy plums. Perfect as a light lunch or dinner, this recipe is also great for potlucks and picnics.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 fresh Italian plums (such as Greengage or Stanley), sliced into wedges
– 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese (chèvre)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the plum slices and crumbled goat cheese.
2. Sprinkle the chopped fresh mint leaves over the top of the plums and cheese.
3. Drizzle the olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the salad, tossing gently to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 5-10 minutes
Slow-Roasted Italian Plum Compote
Slow-Roasted Italian Plum Compote Recipe
This sweet and tangy compote is perfect for topping yogurt, oatmeal, or using as a filling for cakes and pastries. With the low-and-slow cooking method, the flavors meld together beautifully, creating a rich and intense taste.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs Italian plums (such as Greengage or Ugli), halved
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– 2 cloves
– 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the plum halves, sugar, honey, lemon zest, and cloves.
3. Pour in the red wine vinegar, water, and cinnamon; toss until the plums are evenly coated.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
5. Roast for 2-1/2 hours, or until the plums are tender and caramelized.
6. Remove the foil and continue roasting for an additional 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. Let cool before refrigerating or freezing.
Cooking Time: 3-3.5 hours
Italian Plum and Dark Chocolate Clafoutis
This Italian-inspired dessert combines the natural sweetness of plums with the richness of dark chocolate, creating a unique and indulgent treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pitted Italian prunes (or other sweet variety)
– 2 large eggs
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Butter a 9-inch (23cm) round baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, flour, and a pinch of salt.
3. In a large skillet, combine plums, sugar, and milk. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the fruit is tender and the liquid has reduced slightly, about 15 minutes.
4. Pour the plum mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top with dark chocolate chips.
5. Pour the egg mixture over the chocolate and plums.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Italian Plum and Pistachio Biscotti
Experience the sweet and nutty flavors of Italy with this simple recipe for biscotti, perfect for dipping in coffee or tea.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup chopped fresh plums (such as Santa Rosa or Italian prunes)
– 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and eggs until smooth. Add chopped plums and pistachios; mix well.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/2 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Place biscotti on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Italian Plum and Caramelized Onion Pizza
Italian Plum and Caramelized Onion Pizza Recipe
Discover the sweet and savory combination of Italian plums and caramelized onions on a crispy pizza crust, perfect for a unique dinner or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 2-3 Italian plums, sliced
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup caramelized onions (see note)
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out the pizza dough and place on a baking sheet.
3. Spread the caramelized onions over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Arrange the sliced Italian plums on top of the onions.
5. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly over the plums.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Note: To caramelize the onions, heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a pan over medium-low heat. Cook sliced onions for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are dark and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Italian Plum and Lavender Shortbread
Experience the sweet and savory fusion of Italy’s finest ingredients with this unique shortbread recipe, featuring plums and lavender.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup dried lavender buds
– 1 cup Italian plums (such as Prunes or Damson), pitted and chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Add softened butter and mix until a crumbly dough forms.
3. Stir in confectioners’ sugar, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and lavender buds.
4. Fold in chopped plums.
5. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Place shortbread cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Italian Plum and Ginger Galette
Elevate your dessert game with this sweet and tangy galette featuring Italian plums and a hint of ginger.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 2 cups Italian prunes (plums), pitted
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons grated fresh ginger
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Transfer to the prepared baking sheet.
3. In a bowl, mix together plums, sugar, ginger, and honey.
4. Arrange plum mixture in a spiral pattern, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
5. Fold pastry edges up over the filling, pressing gently to seal.
6. Brush melted butter over the crust.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Italian Plum and Walnut Bread
This moist and flavorful bread combines the sweetness of plums with the earthy taste of walnuts, perfect for a snack or as a side to your favorite meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh plums (such as Santa Rosa or Italian Prune)
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add olive oil, sugar, flour, and salt. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Fold in chopped plums and walnuts.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes, until smooth.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the top of the bread with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the sweet and tangy flavors of Italy’s summer bounty! This article presents 18 mouthwatering recipes that showcase the versatility of Italian plums. From classic desserts like tart and jam, to savory dishes like flatbread and pizza, these recipes will satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re a fan of sweet treats or savory meals, there’s something for everyone in this collection. So go ahead and fire up your oven, grill, or blender to create these delicious Italian plum recipes perfect for summer!