Description
This elegant appetizer features fresh figs stuffed with creamy goat cheese, lightly brushed with olive oil, sprinkled with pistachios, and broiled until warm. A final drizzle of honey adds the perfect touch of sweetness.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12–16 fresh figs (Black Mission, Brown Turkey, or Calimyrna work well)
- 4 ounces soft goat cheese (chèvre), slightly softened (use cheese with vegetarian rennet if needed)
- 2 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 3 tablespoons crushed pistachios (optional)
- 1/4 cup honey
Instructions
- Preheat Broiler: Position an oven rack about 6-8 inches below the broiler element. Preheat the oven broiler to high.
- Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare Figs (Choose One Method):
- Method 1 (X-Cut): Trim off the stems of the figs. Cut a deep “X” into the top of each fig, cutting about 2/3 of the way down, but not all the way through. Gently open the “X” slightly.
- Method 2 (Halved): Slice the figs in half lengthwise. If desired, make a slight indentation in the center of each cut half with your finger to hold the cheese better.
- Stuff Figs: Use a teaspoon or a small knife to gently stuff a small amount of goat cheese into the “X” cut or onto the cut surface of the halved figs.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the stuffed figs on the prepared baking sheet.
- Oil, Season, and Add Nuts: Lightly brush the figs with olive oil. Sprinkle very lightly with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Sprinkle the crushed pistachios (if using) over the tops of the figs.
- Broil: Place the baking sheet under the preheated broiler. Broil for 4-5 minutes, watching very carefully, until the goat cheese is softened and lightly golden, and the figs are heated through. Broilers vary greatly; do not walk away during this step.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Drizzle the warm figs generously with honey. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Figs: Choose ripe but firm fresh figs. The variety will affect the flavor slightly.
- Goat Cheese: Allow the goat cheese to soften slightly at room temperature for easier stuffing. You can substitute other soft cheeses like Boursin or cream cheese if preferred.
- Cutting Figs: The “X” cut creates a beautiful presentation, while halving them might be slightly easier to stuff and eat.
- Pistachios: Optional, but add a lovely crunch and color. You can substitute other chopped nuts like walnuts or almonds.
- Broiling: Keep a very close eye on the figs while broiling. They can go from perfectly roasted to burnt very quickly.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve as an appetizer, part of a cheese board, or even as a light dessert.
- Storage: These are best enjoyed shortly after making them.