Figs for Starters

Delicious, sweet fig fruit is one of the prime fruits enjoyed since antiquity in the human history. Fig is naturally rich in much health benefiting phyto-nutrients, anti-oxidants and vitamins. Dried figs, in fact, are concentrated source of minerals and vitamins. 

Simple

Figs and sharp cheese are a perfect combination.

Who said you can't play with your food?

Shape figs into a heart shape and serve with shards of Parmigiano Reggiano

Sweet

Gorgonzola, Fig and Walnut Tartlets

1 refrigerated pie crust, softened as directed

6 dried figs, coarsely chopped (1/3 cup)

1 Tbsp. dark brown sugar

1/8 tsp. cinnamon

1/4 cup chopped walnuts

1/2 cup crumbled Gorgonzola cheese

1 Tbsp. honey

Heat oven to 425 degrees F.  Unroll pie crust on flat surface.

Using a 2-inch cookie cutter, cut 24 rounds from pie crust.  Gently press 1 round in bottom and up sides of each of 24 ungreased mini muffin cups.

In a small bowl, mix figs, brown sugar, cinnamon, walnuts and figs.  Spoon 1 Tbsp. into each cup.

Bake 7 to 11 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.  Remove tarlets to serving plate.

Drizzle tartlets with honey and serve warm.

Savory

Bacon Wrapped Figs with Gorgonzola Cheese

24 dried figs

8 oz. Gorgonzola Cheese

8-10 thin smoked bacon strips

Preheat oven to 3575 degrees F.  In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups water to a simmer.  Add dried figs and remove from heat. Allow figs to plump (about 5 minutes).  Remove from pan and place on paper towel to dry.  Soak toothpicks in water for 5 minutes.  Snip stems from figs, then cut an "X" into the top of the fig and open gently.  Place a small cube of cheese into the fig and close.  Gently stretch the bacon and cut strip into 3 pieces.  Lay bacon slice around the fig and secure with toothpicks.  Place figs on parchment lined cookie sheet.  Sprinkle with brown sugar and freshly ground black pepper.

Bake approx 15-20 minutes or until bacon is done.

Serve warm or at room temperature.

~Tartlet Recipe - Pillsbury