Grilled figs make an amazing garnish for a slice of toasted bread topped with fresh cheese. Here I used an extra creamy type of mozzarella called "burrata," available at the nicer cheese shops, but a soft, fresh mozzarella cheese would work, as would a nice mild goat cheese, or brie.
Makes 4 Portions Bruschetta with Grilled Figs and Balsamic Dressing
Makes 4 Portions Bruschetta with Grilled Figs and Balsamic Dressing
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 12 fresh Black Mission figs, cut in half lengthwise
- salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste
- 4 thick slices Italian bread
- olive oil, as needed
- 8-oz semi-soft cheese such as burrata, mozzarella, goat, teleme, or even brie
Preparation:
Add the balsamic vinegar and extra virgin olive oil to a small jar or squeeze bottle. Shake vigorously to emulsify. Set aside until needed.
Place the figs, skin-side-down, on a preheated charcoal or gas grill. Cook for about 4-5 minutes, or until the figs swell, and the juices begin to bubble up to the surface. Remove to a plate and reserve. Brush the bread lightly with olive oil, and grill lightly on both sides.
To serve: top each slice of grilled bread with cheese. Surround with grilled figs, and drizzle over the balsamic dressing. Top with salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste.
Place the figs, skin-side-down, on a preheated charcoal or gas grill. Cook for about 4-5 minutes, or until the figs swell, and the juices begin to bubble up to the surface. Remove to a plate and reserve. Brush the bread lightly with olive oil, and grill lightly on both sides.
To serve: top each slice of grilled bread with cheese. Surround with grilled figs, and drizzle over the balsamic dressing. Top with salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste.