Quick 15-Minute Baked Figs with Goat Cheese, Walnuts, Honey, and Sage: A Delightful Appetizer

Figs are finally in season, and I couldn’t be more excited! While it marks the end of summer (although it’s still warm outside), I’m savoring the abundance of fruits like apples, corn, and of course, figs. As we transition into cooler weather, I’ll soon dive into hearty comfort food like my favorite vegan mushroom crostini, but for now, I’m taking full advantage of fresh figs.

The fig season is short, so be sure to enjoy them while you can! While eating them raw or making sandwiches with figs and cheese are great options, one of my favorite ways to prepare figs is by baking them with goat cheese. The sweetness of the figs pairs perfectly with the soft, savory goat cheese, and the added walnuts, honey, and sage elevate the flavor to a whole new level. If you love figs, this baked fig recipe is a must-try. Who can resist the combination of figs and goat cheese, right?

How to Make Baked Figs with Goat Cheese

This quick and simple appetizer is a showstopper. It’s easy to prepare and combines just five simple ingredients: fresh figs, soft goat cheese, walnuts, honey, and sage. In just 15 minutes, you’ll have an elegant, savory dish that your guests will absolutely love!

Ingredients:

• 6 medium-sized figs

• 80 grams (2.8 oz) of soft goat cheese

• 2 tablespoons chopped walnuts

• 1 tablespoon chopped sage

• 2 tablespoons honey

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F).

2. Cut off the stems of the figs and make an X-shaped incision at the top, cutting halfway through.

3. Using a teaspoon, stuff each fig with soft goat cheese.

4. Sprinkle chopped walnuts and sage on top of the stuffed figs and drizzle with honey.

5. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

6. Place the figs in a baking dish and broil them for about 5 minutes, or until soft and juicy.

7. Serve warm or cold and enjoy!

Choosing the Perfect Figs:

When selecting figs, look for those with slightly bent stems and a soft skin, which indicates ripeness and flavor. Avoid figs that are shriveled or squishy, especially those with visible leaks or cracks. Since figs are delicate, it’s best to enjoy them shortly after purchase, or store them in the fridge for a couple of days. However, they’re best stored at room temperature to maintain their sweetness.

What to Pair Figs With:

Figs are incredibly versatile and can be paired with a variety of ingredients:

• Cheese Substitutes: Try swapping goat cheese for ricotta, Parmesan, mozzarella, or blue cheeses like Gorgonzola or Stilton.

• Extra Savory Notes: Add capers or olives for an extra savory touch.

• Citrusy Twist: A drizzle of lemon juice adds a refreshing zing.

• Non-Vegetarian Option: For meat lovers, wrap figs in prosciutto before baking.

• Balsamic Touch: A balsamic vinegar reduction pairs beautifully with figs.

• Nut Variations: Try almonds, pistachios, or pecans instead of walnuts.

• Herb Swaps: Swap sage for rosemary, thyme, or basil for a different flavor profile.

• Warm Spices: Experiment with spices like star anise, cloves, cardamom, nutmeg, or cinnamon.

• Wine Pairing: Serve figs with your favorite wine and enjoy!

Wine Pairings with Baked Figs:

Baked figs pair well with a wide range of wines. For white wine enthusiasts, try a light–bodied Pinot Grigio or dry