Honey Goat Cheese Figs with Hazelnut and Fresh Basil

I am always on the hunt for somewhat healthy but delectable new appetizer alternatives. Specifically to cheese plates for dinner parties and girls’ nights. The rise of fig season at the end of summer provides the perfect opportunity. If you haven’t met the fig + cheese combo, buckle up. Nothing gives off cozy season vibes in under 5 and 20 minutes like this recipe. It is quite literally impossible to mess up and a 10/10.

Ingredients:

(Serves 2-4 as an appetizer)

• 12 figs
• 3 oz honey goat cheese
• 2 tbs olive oil
• 1 tbs chopped fresh basil
• 1 tbs chopped hazelnuts
• Sprinkle of sea salt

Directions:

(Total Time: 20 minutes)

1. Prep first! Preheat oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Wash and dry figs, then cut each in half. Roughly chop your basil and hazelnuts, keeping separate and setting aside.
2. Use the back of spoon to gently indent each fig, making a little divot for the goat cheese. Then use the spoon to rest a dollop of goat cheese inside. Gently press hazelnuts into each mound of goat cheese.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and salt. Bake at 400F for 15 minutes. For crispier figs, broil for an additional 2 minutes. Sprinkle with basil and enjoy fresh!!*

Notes:

* I am not just saying this as a nice way to close the recipe. This recipe is delicious fresh, but doesn’t sit well. Time your preparation so they go directly from oven to happy stomachs!

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What am I pairing this with? I’m so glad you asked – this is presently my favorite appetizer to bring to friend’s houses for dinner parties.

What can I learn while I make this? Fig trees look like they’re flowerless (and people used to believe they were); however, they do have flowers. The flowers are simply inside the fruit!

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What if I want to make an appetizer but not this recipe? Don’t worry– I won’t be offended! Check out these other ideas below:

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