Figs are a quintessential ingredient in Ottolenghi’s vibrant, Middle Eastern-inspired cooking, celebrated for their natural sweetness and luscious texture. Combining fresh figs with bold herbs, spices, and tangy cheeses creates a perfect balance of flavors that elevates simple dishes into memorable meals. This recipe brings Ottolenghi’s signature approach to figs, offering a versatile way to enjoy them in both savory and sweet contexts.
Ingredients
- 12 ripe fresh figs, halved
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
- 150g (5 oz) ricotta cheese
- 50g (1.75 oz) crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves, plus extra for garnish
- 1 tablespoon toasted pine nuts
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Flaky sea salt, to taste
- 1 small lemon, zested
- Optional: 2 cups baby arugula or rocket leaves
- Optional: 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
- Arrange the fig halves cut side up on the tray. Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil over them and sprinkle lightly with flaky sea salt and fresh thyme leaves.
- Roast the figs in the oven for 10–12 minutes, or until they are just soft and starting to caramelize but not mushy. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly.
- In a small bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, crumbled feta, lemon zest, and a pinch of black pepper. Mix gently to keep the cheese fluffy but well combined.
- If using arugula, toss the leaves in the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil and a splash of balsamic vinegar, seasoning lightly with salt and pepper.
- To assemble, spread a spoonful of the ricotta-feta mixture on each fig half. Drizzle each with honey and scatter toasted pine nuts over the top.
- Arrange the figs on a serving platter, optionally nestling them among the dressed arugula leaves.
- Finish with a few more thyme leaves and a light grind of black pepper before serving.
Tips
- Fig ripeness: Choose figs that are plump, fragrant, and slightly soft to the touch. Underripe figs lack sweetness and won’t caramelize well when roasted.
- Cheese alternatives: If ricotta or feta isn’t available, try fresh goat cheese or burrata for a creamy texture with a tangy note.
- Honey substitution: Maple syrup or date syrup can be used for a different but complementary sweetness if honey isn’t preferred or available.
- Storage: Assemble figs just before serving for the best texture. Leftover toppings can be stored separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Serving Suggestions
This Ottolenghi-inspired fig dish shines as a sophisticated appetizer or part of a mezze spread. Serve it alongside crusty bread or warm flatbreads to scoop up the creamy cheeses and honey. It also pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light rosé. For a light lunch, toss the figs with more arugula, toasted nuts, and a drizzle of balsamic reduction for a vibrant salad.
Variations
You can easily adapt this recipe to suit different occasions and tastes. For a heartier main, add slices of prosciutto or smoked ham for saltiness and depth. Swap the pine nuts for toasted walnuts or pistachios for added crunch and a different nutty flavor. For a vegan version, replace cheeses with a cashew-based ricotta and use agave syrup instead of honey. Additionally, grilling figs instead of roasting them imparts a smoky flavor that pairs wonderfully with the creamy cheese mixture.
Storage and Reheating
Because fresh figs are delicate, it’s best to prepare and assemble this dish shortly before serving. If you need to store components, keep roasted figs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The cheese mixture can also be refrigerated separately for 2–3 days. Avoid reheating the assembled dish, as the figs will become mushy and the cheese texture will change. If you want warm figs, reheat the figs alone gently in a low oven (around 150°C/300°F) for 5 minutes before topping with cheese and honey.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use dried figs instead of fresh figs?
While dried figs have a concentrated sweetness, they won’t provide the same juicy texture or roast the same way as fresh figs. If using dried figs, soak them in warm water for 20 minutes to rehydrate, then chop and add to a salad or cheese plate instead of roasting.
What if I can’t find fresh thyme? Can I substitute it?
Fresh thyme adds a subtle herbal note that complements the figs’ sweetness. If unavailable, rosemary or oregano can be used sparingly, but avoid overpowering the delicate fig flavor. Alternatively, a pinch of dried thyme can be used but add it before roasting to bloom the flavor.
How do I know when figs are perfectly ripe?
Ripe figs are soft but not mushy, plump, and have a sweet aroma. The skin may show slight cracks or wrinkles, and the color will be rich depending on the variety. Avoid figs that are hard, green, or overly bruised.
Can this recipe be made vegan?
Yes, substitute the ricotta and feta with plant-based alternatives such as cashew ricotta or almond-based cheese. Use maple syrup or agave instead of honey. Toasted nuts and fresh herbs remain the same, preserving the dish’s texture and flavor balance.
Is it better to roast or grill the figs?
Both methods work well but offer different flavor profiles. Roasting softens figs gently and caramelizes their sugars evenly. Grilling adds a smoky char and intensifies the sweetness but requires careful attention to avoid burning. Choose based on your preferred flavor and equipment.
Can I prepare this dish ahead for a party?
Prepare the roasted figs and cheese mixture separately in advance and store them refrigerated. Assemble just before serving to maintain freshness and texture. If made too early, figs may become soggy and the cheese mixture may dry out.
This recipe captures the essence of Ottolenghi’s fig dishes—simple ingredients combined thoughtfully for maximum flavor impact. Whether served as an elegant starter or a component of a larger spread, the balance of sweet figs, creamy cheese, fresh herbs, and crunchy nuts offers a delightful culinary experience that’s sure to impress.
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