Description
8 fresh figs, halved
2 oz goat cheese, crumbled
¼ cup walnuts, chopped
2 tbsp honey
1 tbsp balsamic glaze (optional)
½ tsp fresh thyme leaves
Pinch of sea salt
Directions:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Arrange the halved figs on the baking sheet, cut side up.
Top each fig half with a small amount of crumbled goat cheese and a sprinkle of chopped walnuts.
Drizzle honey evenly over the figs.
Roast in the oven for 12-15 minutes until the figs are soft and slightly caramelized.
Remove from the oven and drizzle with balsamic glaze, if using. Sprinkle with fresh thyme leaves and a pinch of sea salt.
Serve warm as an appetizer or dessert. Enjoy!
Prep Time: 5 minutes Cooking Time: 15 minutes Total Time: 20 minutes Kcal: 110 per serving Servings: 4 servings
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect roasted figs every time. First, ensure your oven rack is in the center position and preheat to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats, line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easy. Carefully wash and dry 8 fresh, ripe figs. Using a sharp paring knife, slice each fig in half from stem to base. Arrange the halves on the prepared sheet, cut side up, ensuring they are not touching.
Next, take about 2 ounces of cold goat cheese and crumble it finely with your fingers. Evenly distribute the crumbles among the fig halves. Take ¼ cup of walnuts and give them a rough chop—you want small pieces for texture but not dust. Sprinkle the walnuts over the cheese. Finally, using a spoon, gently drizzle 2 tablespoons of honey in a zig-zag pattern across all the figs. The honey will pool and help caramelize the fruit during roasting.
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Roast for 12-15 minutes. The figs are done when they appear softened, juicy, and the edges of the honey and cheese begin to turn a light golden brown. Remove from the oven and let cool for just 1-2 minutes before adding the final touches: a drizzle of balsamic glaze (optional), a sprinkle of fresh thyme leaves, and a delicate pinch of flaky sea salt.
Serving Suggestions
These versatile roasted figs can be enjoyed in multiple ways. As an elegant appetizer, serve them warm on a platter with toothpicks or small forks. For a stunning dessert, plate two or three halves alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped mascarpone. They also make a superb accompaniment to a cheese board, pairing beautifully with cured meats and crusty bread. For a brunch twist, serve them over thick Greek yogurt or oatmeal.
How-to Summary
Halve fresh figs, top with goat cheese and walnuts, drizzle with honey, and roast at 375°F for 12-15 minutes. Finish with balsamic glaze, thyme, and sea salt.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use dried figs instead of fresh?
No, dried figs will not soften and caramelize correctly in this recipe. The high moisture content of fresh figs is essential for the desired texture.
What can I substitute for goat cheese?
Blue cheese, feta, or a soft ricotta are excellent substitutes that offer different but complementary flavor profiles.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a warm oven or microwave, though they are best served fresh.
Is the balsamic glaze necessary?
While optional, the balsamic glaze adds a wonderful tangy sweetness that balances the honey and richness of the cheese. A high-quality glaze makes a significant difference.
Can I prepare these ahead of time?
You can assemble the figs (up to the honey drizzle) on the baking sheet and refrigerate, covered, for up to 4 hours before roasting. Add the honey just before baking to prevent sogginess.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these pitfalls for the best results: Do not overcrowd the baking sheet, as this will steam the figs instead of roasting them. Ensure your goat cheese is cold when crumbling to prevent clumping. Do not skip the pinch of sea salt at the end—it is crucial for enhancing all the other flavors. Finally, do not over-roast; watch closely after 12 minutes to prevent the walnuts from burning.
Conclusion
This recipe for Honey Roasted Figs with Goat Cheese is a masterpiece of minimal effort and maximum flavor. In just 20 minutes, you can transform a few simple, quality ingredients into a dish that feels luxurious and sophisticated. The combination of warm, caramelized fruit, creamy cheese, crunchy nuts, and aromatic herbs is truly unforgettable. It’s the perfect dish to impress guests or to treat yourself to a special, restaurant-quality bite at home.
