The sun is shining in Spokane and my itch to start cooking summer-themed meals is in full force! During the warmer months, I tend to cook with what’s in season at the grocery store or even at farmer’s markets. As I was reflecting on how my cooking abilities have evolved from last summer, I was going down memory lane in my journal. I’m so grateful that I kept up with my cooking journal, I came across a meal I cooked religiously when figs were in season last July and August. I attempted to recreate the recipe As figs are not in season right now, I subbed them for apples which were still tasty! Different as flavors go but the beauty of this dish is you can use whatever fruit you’d like. Adding figs of course gives it a summery feel but it’s versatile.
Now in a perfect world, it is mid-summer and figs are in season. Looking for the perfect summer salad? Well, you’re in luck because I have a recipe that will have you hooked! Figs are arguably the most versatile fruit to spruce up any summer dish. I swear when it’s fig season, I have no control and could eat this salad every day. The sweetness figs bring to this dish specifically makes this salad almost taste like a dessert. I’m someone who prefers a simple dressing but the combination of flavors in this dressing specifically carries a richness to contrast the sweetness of the caramelized figs. I chose to caramelize the figs as well for this dish but depending on how ripe your fruit are, they may need to be caramelized. I have eaten this salad both ways and prefer the caramelized figs for a contrast in texture and flavor. The caramelization definitely brought this recipe to the next level and “wowed” my friends and family.
Ingredients:
- 1 tbs honey, plus more for drizzling
- 8 oz of figs, halved
- 1 tbs Olive Oil
- 1 tsp Balsamic Glaze
- 1/4 cup Pumpkin Seeds
- 1/4 cup walnuts
- 1 spoonful of Goat Cheese crumble, plus more if you so please
- Arugula
- Salt and Pepper to taste
How To:
- Heat honey in a medium skillet over medium heat. Cook figs, cut sides down, until caramelized, about 5 minutes.
- In your serving bowl add the arugula and dress with olive oil. Massage the greens with your hands for about 2 minutes (this makes it easier to digest).
- Now it’s time to assemble. Add the figs, pumpkin seeds, walnuts, goat cheese, and seasonings. Finish it off with the balsamic glaze and added honey if you desire. Voila!