Italian Appetizers > Sweet Italian Appetizers > Baked Italian Appetizers

Pecorino Sardo and Honey Baked Figs Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 12 fresh figs
- 1/2 cup Pecorino Sardo cheese, grated
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
- Salt and black pepper to taste

Special equipment needed:
- Baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk

Step-by-step instructions:
a. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
b. Cut off the stems of the figs and slice them in half lengthwise.
c. Arrange the figs cut side up in a baking dish.
d. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the honey and balsamic vinegar.
e. Drizzle the honey mixture over the figs.
f. Sprinkle the grated Pecorino Sardo cheese over the figs.
g. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
h. Sprinkle the chopped walnuts over the top.
i. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
j. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.


- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 15-20 minutes
5. Temperature:
- 375°F
Serving size:
- 6 servings

Nutritional information:
- Calories: 190
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Protein: 5g
- Sugar: 19g
- Fiber: 3g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Pecorino Sardo cheese can be substituted with any other hard, salty cheese such as Parmesan or Asiago.
- Walnuts can be substituted with any other nut such as almonds or pecans.

Variations:
- Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spicy flavor.
- Use goat cheese instead of Pecorino Sardo for a tangy twist.
- Substitute the honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for a vegan version.

Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to choose ripe figs for the best flavor.
- If the figs are very sweet, you can reduce the amount of honey used.
- Serve with a drizzle of extra honey or balsamic vinegar for added sweetness.

Storage instructions:
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating instructions:
- To reheat, place the figs in a baking dish and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

Presentation ideas:
- Serve the figs on a platter with a sprig of fresh rosemary or thyme for a pop of color.

Garnishes:
- Chopped fresh herbs such as parsley or basil can be sprinkled over the top for added flavor.

Pairings:
- Serve with a glass of red wine such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot.

Suggested side dishes:
- A simple green salad or roasted vegetables would pair well with this dish.

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the cheese is not melting, place the dish under the broiler for a few minutes until bubbly and golden.

Food safety advice:
- Make sure to wash the figs thoroughly before using.

Food history:
- Figs have been cultivated for thousands of years and were a staple food in ancient Greece and Rome.

Flavor profiles:
- This dish is sweet, salty, and savory all at once, with a nutty crunch from the walnuts.

Serving suggestions:
- Serve as an appetizer or as a dessert.

Related Categories

Cooking Method: N/A

Course Type: N/A

Dietary: N/A

Ingredient: N/A

Meal type: N/A

Occassion: N/A

Region: Italian

Taste: Sweet, Savory, Tangy, Nutty, Caramelized