Fresh Fig Salad with Balsamic Glaze
Fresh Fig Salad with Balsamic Glaze
Seasonal Fig Delight: An Easy and Delicious Fig Salad Recipe
Discover the easiest and most delicious way to enjoy seasonal figs: a refreshing fig salad with a zesty balsamic dressing! This delightful dish combines the natural sweetness of figs with crisp greens and a tangy vinaigrette, making it a healthy and flavorful option. Perfect for a light meal, brunch, or even as an elegant appetizer.
Salad Ingredients- 4 fresh figs
- 2 cups mixed salad greens (e.g., romaine, butter lettuce)
- 1 cup baby greens (e.g., arugula, spinach)
- A handful of dried blueberries (optional)
- A handful of sliced almonds (optional)
- Balsamic glaze for drizzling (optional)
Balsamic Vinaigrette- 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons honey (or agave nectar)
- 0.5 teaspoon minced garlic
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- A pinch of dried basil
- 0.5 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
- 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons honey (or agave nectar)
- 0.5 teaspoon minced garlic
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- A pinch of dried basil
- 0.5 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Begin by preparing your salad components. Gather the fresh figs, dried blueberries, and sliced almonds. Feel free to add other dried fruits (like cranberries or raisins) or fresh fruits (such as avocado or strawberries) for extra flavor and texture.
Step 2
Select your preferred salad greens. Any variety works well, such as romaine, butter lettuce, or mixed greens. Combining them with delicate baby greens will add a lovely contrast in texture and color.
Step 3
A crucial tip for washing figs: Be aware that figs have a small opening at the bottom (where the flower is). To prevent water from entering the fruit and making it soggy, avoid submerging the figs in water or washing them with this part facing downwards.
Step 4
The best way to wash them is to stand them upright with the stem end pointing upwards. Then, lightly sprinkle with baking soda and gently rub the surface with your fingers or a soft brush to remove any dirt.
Step 5
Rinse the figs while still standing upright to ensure water doesn’t seep into the fruit. Since figs are often eaten with their skin on, thorough washing is important. If you prefer not to eat the skin, you can easily peel it off with a knife.
Step 6
Trim the stem end of the washed fig. Gently cut away the bottom portion around the opening to neaten its shape.
Step 7
Cut each fig in half lengthwise.
Step 8
Slice the fig halves lengthwise into attractive wedges. This slicing method showcases the beautiful interior of the fig.
Step 9
Prepare your salad greens by chopping them into bite-sized pieces. Aim for a size that is easy to eat, providing a satisfying crunch with each bite.
Step 10
Now, let’s make the delicious balsamic vinaigrette. In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, minced garlic, salt, dried basil, and lemon juice until well combined. Taste the dressing and adjust the sweetness or saltiness according to your preference.
Step 11
Arrange the mixed greens and baby greens attractively on a serving plate. Artfully place the sliced figs, dried blueberries, and toasted almonds over the greens. Drizzle the prepared balsamic vinaigrette evenly over the entire salad.
Step 12
For an extra touch of flavor and visual appeal, drizzle balsamic glaze over the salad. This step is optional but adds a wonderful depth and glossy finish.
Step 13
Enjoy this vibrant and healthy seasonal fig salad! It’s not only good for you but also visually stunning and incredibly delicious. We highly recommend it for a refreshing and delightful meal!
