Nectarines and Peaches with Lavender Syrup

A sophisticated summer dessert featuring fresh nectarines and peaches drizzled with aromatic lavender-infused honey syrup, topped with candied pecans and creamy Gorgonzola cheese. The perfect balance of sweet, floral, and savory flavors.

6 servings
47 min

Ingredients

  • ½ cup pecans
  • 3 tablespoons honey
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 1 sprig rosemary
  • 1 tablespoon dried lavender buds
  • 1 pinch Kosher salt
  • 3 whole nectarines
  • 3 whole peaches
  • 2 teaspoons lemon zest
  • ½ cup Gorgonzola

Cooking Instructions

  1. 1.

    Preheat oven to 350°F. Toast pecans on a rimmed baking sheet, stirring once, until slightly darkened in color and fragrant, 10-12 minutes. Let cool.

    12 min

  2. 2.

    Meanwhile, bring honey, 2 Tbsp. sugar, and 3 Tbsp. water to a simmer in a small saucepan over medium-high heat, swirling occasionally until sugar is dissolved. Add rosemary and lavender and remove from heat. Let sit 5 minutes. Remove rosemary and let syrup cool.

    10 min

  3. 3.

    Bring a pinch of salt, remaining 1/4 cup sugar, and 1 Tbsp. water to a boil in another small saucepan, stirring to dissolve sugar. Cook (without stirring) until sugar turns a light amber color, about 2 minutes. Add pecans and cook, stirring constantly, until nuts are coated and caramel is a dark amber color, about 2 minutes. Immediately scrape out onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and spread out into a single layer; let cool. Break into smaller pieces.

    15 min

  4. 4.

    Toss nectarines, peaches, lemon zest, and 1/4 cup syrup in a large bowl to coat. Let sit 5 minutes. Gently toss in half of Gorgonzola and half of candied pecans; taste and season with salt if needed. Transfer to a platter. Top with remaining Gorgonzola and candied pecans.

    10 min

  5. 5.

    Syrup can be made 1 month ahead; cover and chill. Pecans can be candied 1 day ahead; store airtight at room temperature.