Figs With Rocotta Pistachios And Honey Food

FRESH FIGS WITH RICOTTA AND HONEY

Steps:

• Using a sharp knife, split each fig down the middle, starting at the tapered stem and slicing down to the broad bottom, being careful not to cut all the way through the fig and stopping about 1/4 inch from the bottom of the fig.
• Scatter the pistachios in a shallow bowl or on a small plate. Drizzle the honey on a small plate.
• Using the tip of a smallish spoon, fill the split center of each fig with a generous dollop of ricotta.
• Gently grasp each fig by its sides but without tightly squeezing it. Dip the fig, bottom first, in the honey and then in the pistachios. Arrange the figs on a large plate or platter.
• Drizzle the figs with additional honey to taste and, if desired, sprinkle with the fresh mint. Serve as soon as you can...as if you could resist doing anything else. Originally published September 20, 2011.

ROASTED FIGS WITH FRESH RICOTTA

Steps:

• Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
• Put the figs, cut side up, in a baking dish. Melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat, and whisk in the honey, cinnamon and salt. Drizzle the hot honey butter over the figs and roast in oven until very soft, 10 to 15 minutes.
• Divide the fresh ricotta or fat free yogurt among 4 serving dishes and top with the warm figs and sauce. Enjoy!
• Cook's Note: These hot figs are really great over mixed greens or even on a toasted baguette as a crostini!

FIGS WITH GOAT'S CHEESE, PISTACHIOS & HONEY

Steps:

• Arrange the figs on a tray, cut-side up. Slice the goat's cheese into eight rounds, then cut each round in half.
• Gently push the goat's cheese pieces into the cut sides of the figs, then season with a little salt and pepper, drizzle with the honey and scatter with the pistachios and thyme.