~ Baked Stuffed Figs with Prosciutto, Goat Cheese, Rosemary and Honey ~
Food is like fashion. There are some trends that flash then fizzle, while there are classics that withstand the passage of time – just like a little black dress. The combination of figs, goat cheese and prosciutto falls in the little black dress category. Each ingredient is a specialty hailing from the cuisines of the Mediterranean, reflecting locally grown and raised food with a history spanning the ages. And they taste great together. No fancy accoutrements are needed – this is the stuff of slow food. Whether you call it timeless or simply delicious, the common denominator is it strikes a primal chord in all of us, bringing us back for more.
This recipe showcases the ancient fig, one of the first plants cultivated by humans. Figs are high in calcium, fiber, potassium and contain many antioxidants. Luscious and honeyed, they are delicate in flavor. Their subtle sweetness is an elegant addition to savory dishes such as pizzas and salads, while their mildness adds refinement to desserts, never tipping the sugar point. Classic, understated and refined – all of the makings of timeless food and good fashion.
Stuffed Figs with Goat Cheese and Prosciutto
Fresh rosemary sprigs serve as toothpicks in assembling the figs while infusing flavor during the baking. Makes 12 hors-d’ouevres, or serves 6 as a salad course.
12 figs, ripe but not too soft
6 ounces soft goat cheese, room temperature
6 slices prosciutto, sliced in half length-wise
4 large rosemary sprigs, cut in thirds, plus extra for garnish
Extra-virgin olive oil
Runny honey
Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
Preheat oven to 350 F. (180 C.)
Cut the figs crosswise from the top, halfway down the fruit. Gently separate the quarters to create an opening. Scoop 1-2 teaspoons goat cheese into the opening, without overstuffing. Wrap each fig with prosciutto slice. Pierce the prosciutto and fig with a rosemary skewer to hold in place. Arrange figs in a baking pan. Gently brush with olive oil. Sprinkle with a little salt and pepper (the prosciutto will also add salt). Bake in oven until prosciutto begins to crispen and cheese is tinged brown, about 25 minutes. Remove from the oven. Carefully remove and discard baked rosemary sprigs. Arrange figs on serving platter or individual plates with fresh arugula (optional). Drizzle each fig with honey. Garnish with fresh rosemary leaves. Serve immediately.
Love how you tweak this with the rosemary…
Perfect – not long now until our figs ripen and I can make this.
Great and wonderful idea. I have grilled figs with prosciutto but never tried this combo.
It may not surprise you to hear me say this, but I love this recipe. It’s perfect!
Drooling! One of the best flavor combos. These look delicious.
such a classic combo. your pics highlight it perfectly
I keep seeing fig recipes (Greg) and others…now I’m completely sold. I have to try figs and this is the way I’m going to do it!
Rosemary & fresh figs sound soooo good together! Love the combo of ingredients here.
Those figs look delicious! That is a great combination. So refined.
Cheers,
Rosa
YUMMMMMYYYY!
Those bacon wrapped figs look fabulous!
100% agreed! I like your black dress analogy. And I just put exactly this on pizza last week. Absolute perfection.
This is by far one of my favourite hors d’œvres! Always a sensation with guests!
I would totally eat these while wearing a little black dress…..was that your point? – S
Too funny but if that’s the result, then yes.
This is very little black dressy. With a fur wrap! I can see this being a real hit at a brunch or a dinner party.
We made these for dinner last night and LOVED them! Thank you!
These sound delicious and look so pretty. A perfect sophisticated appetizer idea!