Feasting on Figs
Thought to be the sweetest fruit, figs are also one of the oldest fruits recognized by man. With figs coming in season, a wonderful recipe for appetizers that is both delicious and beautiful combining fresh figs, tangy goat cheese, salty almonds, sweet honey, and balsamic vinegar.
Arrange figs in a circle, tops facing in, for a flower effect that is a lovely addition to any menu! Marcona almonds are recommended for their flavor, a cross between an almond and a cashew.
Perfect paired with a Pinot Noir on a warm summer’s evening. Bon Appetit!
INGREDIENTS (Nutrition)
* 12 fresh figs, halved
* 4 ounces herbed goat cheese (chevre)
* 24 almonds
* 1 tablespoon honey
* 2 teaspoons balsamic vinegarDIRECTIONS
1. Preheat the oven broiler for high heat.
2. Place the fig halves, cut side up, on a baking sheet. Top each half with about 1/2 teaspoon goat cheese. Place one almond on each, press to push the cheese slightly into each fig.
3. Broil the figs in the preheated oven until the cheese is soft and the almonds are turning a rich shade of brown, 2 to 3 minutes. Remove from the broiler and let cool for 5 minutes. Arrange the figs on a serving platter and drizzle with honey and balsamic vinegar. Serve warm.
The Errant Æsthete 
Mrs. E. and I had a neighbour at our first house, who had a fig tree. He would give us bags of fresh figs in season. We served them with vanilla ice cream and drizzled with balsamic and honey for dessert.
After reading this post, I miss that tree.
E,
I always love your posts, as I do your blog — all so wonderfully personal and include so much of you in them. I, too, think of fig trees when it comes to the fruit they provide. So much in literature, history, religion seems to include them and their bountiful gifts.