When it comes to adding natural sweetness and crunch to your dishes, few ingredients can rival the combination of dried figs and nuts. The chewy texture and jam-like flavor of dried figs pair perfectly with the rich, nutty taste of a variety of nuts, from walnuts and pecans to almonds and pistachios. In this article, we’ll explore 18 delicious recipes that showcase the unique flavors and textures of dried figs and nuts.
From savory main courses like Fig and Walnut Stuffed Chicken and Balsamic Glazed Pork with Dried Figs, to sweet treats like Fig and Macadamia Nut Cookies and Fig and Hazelnut Chocolate Bark, these recipes are sure to inspire your culinary creativity. And the best part? They’re all easy to make and require just a few simple ingredients. So why not get started and see what amazing dishes you can create with dried figs and nuts?
Fig and Walnut Stuffed Chicken
Elevate your chicken dish with a sweet and savory combination of figs and walnuts. This recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh figs
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together figs, walnuts, honey, and thyme.
3. Lay the chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each breast with the fig-walnut mixture, dividing it evenly among the four breasts.
5. Drizzle the tops of the chicken with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Dried Fig and Almond Energy Balls
These no-bake energy balls are packed with nutrients from dried figs, almonds, and oats, making them the perfect snack to keep you going throughout the day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup chopped dried figs
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon chia seeds
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine oats, dried figs, and almonds.
2. In a small saucepan, heat the honey over low heat until warm and syrupy.
3. Pour the warm honey over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is well combined.
4. Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow it to set.
5. Once set, use your hands to shape the mixture into small energy balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
Cooking Time: None! These energy balls are no-bake.
Enjoy your delicious and healthy Dried Fig and Almond Energy Balls throughout the day!
Caramelized Onion and Fig Flatbread
Savor the sweet and savory combination of caramelized onions and fresh figs on a crispy flatbread.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup fresh figs, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). In a bowl, combine flour and salt.
2. Gradually add warm water and mix until dough forms. Knead for 5 minutes, then rest for 10 minutes.
3. Roll out dough to 1/4 inch thickness. Place on baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Caramelize onions: Cook sliced onions in butter over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until golden brown (about 20-25 minutes).
5. Top flatbread with caramelized onions and chopped figs. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Fig and Pistachio Biscotti
Enjoy a crunchy, flavorful biscotti perfect for dipping into your favorite coffee or tea. This sweet and savory treat combines the natural sweetness of figs with the nutty flavor of pistachios.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried figs, chopped
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup shelled pistachios, chopped
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and eggs until smooth. Add chopped figs and pistachios; mix well.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Transfer dough to the prepared baking sheet and shape into a log about 12 inches long.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly golden. Let cool completely on wire rack.
7. Reduce oven temperature to 325°F (165°C). Slice the cooled biscotti into 1/2-inch thick slices and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until crispy.
Cooking Time: Total: 40-45 minutes
Warm Quinoa Salad with Dried Figs and Pecans
Warm Quinoa Salad with Dried Figs and Pecans: A sweet and savory combination that’s perfect for a cozy evening or potluck gathering. This recipe combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the natural sweetness of dried figs and crunch of toasted pecans.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup dried figs, chopped
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using water or broth. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped pecans and cook until lightly toasted, stirring frequently (about 5 minutes).
4. Add chopped figs to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until they release their natural sweetness.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, toasted pecans, and dried figs. Drizzle with honey and season with salt to taste.
6. Serve warm, garnished with fresh thyme leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Fig and Hazelnut Chocolate Bark
Elevate your snack game with this scrumptious treat that combines the natural sweetness of figs, the crunch of hazelnuts, and the richness of dark chocolate.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1/2 cup chopped dried figs
– 1/4 cup chopped hazelnuts
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
3. Stir in the chopped figs and hazelnuts.
4. Pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.
5. Drizzle with honey, if desired.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
Cooking Time: None required! Just chill and serve.
Balsamic Glazed Pork with Dried Figs
Sweet and savory flavors come together in this elegant dish that’s perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home. Thinly sliced pork chops are glazed with a rich balsamic reduction and served atop caramelized dried figs, creating a match made in heaven.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1/2 inch thick)
– 1 cup dried figs
– 1 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small saucepan, reduce balsamic vinegar over medium heat until thickened and syrupy.
3. Meanwhile, cook pork chops in a skillet with olive oil until browned, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Transfer pork chops to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Caramelize dried figs by cooking them in a skillet over medium heat with honey until sticky and golden.
6. Glaze pork chops with balsamic reduction and serve atop caramelized figs. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Fig and Cashew Granola Bars
These Fig and Cashew Granola Bars are a deliciously sweet and savory treat that combines the natural sweetness of figs with the crunch of cashews. Perfect for snacking on-the-go or as a healthy breakfast option.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup chopped dried figs
– 1/2 cup cashew pieces
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon coconut oil
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix together oats, figs, and cashews.
3. In a separate bowl, combine honey, brown sugar, coconut oil, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until smooth.
4. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is well combined.
5. Press mixture into prepared baking dish. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden.
6. Remove from oven and let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Roasted Butternut Squash and Fig Soup
Roasted Butternut Squash and Fig Soup Recipe
Warm up with this sweet and savory soup that combines the natural sweetness of butternut squash with the tanginess of figs. Perfect for a chilly fall or winter evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, peeled and chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup dried black mission figs, stemmed and chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh herbs (such as parsley or thyme) for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
3. Place the squash on a baking sheet, cut side up, and drizzle with olive oil.
4. Roast the squash in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
5. Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic in a large pot over medium heat until softened.
6. Add the roasted squash, figs, vegetable broth, and heavy cream to the pot. Bring to a simmer.
7. Purée the soup with an immersion blender or regular blender.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Fig and Macadamia Nut Cookies
These chewy cookies combine the natural sweetness of figs with the crunch of macadamia nuts, perfect for a snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup chopped dried figs
– 1/2 cup chopped macadamia nuts
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
3. Gradually mix in flour, then stir in figs and macadamia nuts.
4. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
5. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
6. Remove from oven and let cool on wire rack.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Spinach and Fig Salad with Toasted Pine Nuts
This sweet and savory salad combines the natural sweetness of figs with the earthy flavor of spinach, topped with crunchy toasted pine nuts. A perfect blend of flavors and textures for a quick and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
– 1 cup dried Mission figs, chopped
– 1/2 cup toasted pine nuts (see note)
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tbsp white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Spread the pine nuts on a baking sheet and toast for 5-7 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly browned.
3. In a large bowl, combine spinach leaves, chopped figs, toasted pine nuts, and crumbled feta cheese (if using).
4. Drizzle olive oil and white wine vinegar over the salad and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Fig and Peanut Butter Smoothie
This Fig and Peanut Butter Smoothie is a unique and delicious combination of flavors that will satisfy your sweet tooth. With the natural sweetness of figs and the creamy richness of peanut butter, this smoothie is perfect for a quick breakfast or afternoon pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe banana
– 1/2 cup fresh or dried figs
– 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup vanilla yogurt
– 1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the banana, figs, and peanut butter.
2. Add the vanilla yogurt and milk.
3. Blend until smooth and creamy.
4. Add ice cubes if you want a thicker consistency.
5. Blend again until the ice is crushed and the smoothie is the desired texture.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes
Lamb Tagine with Dried Figs and Almonds
This Moroccan-inspired tagine is a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, combining tender lamb with the natural sweetness of dried figs and crunchy almonds. The slow-cooked stew is aromatic and rich, making it an ideal dish for special occasions or cozy weeknight meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup dried figs, chopped
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup lamb broth or chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add lamb, onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until lamb is browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add figs, almonds, diced tomatoes, and broth. Bring to a boil, then cover and simmer for 1 hour or until lamb is tender.
4. Serve hot over couscous or rice.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Fig and Brazil Nut Bread
This sweet bread recipe combines the natural sweetness of figs with the nutty flavor of Brazil nuts, perfect for a breakfast treat or snack. The result is a moist and flavorful loaf that’s sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh figs
– 1/2 cup chopped Brazil nuts
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and mix until crumbly.
4. Beat in egg and honey.
5. Fold in chopped figs and Brazil nuts.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Goat Cheese and Fig Crostini with Walnuts
This sweet and savory combination is perfect for a quick and impressive appetizer or snack. Crunchy walnuts add texture to the creamy goat cheese and jammy figs on toasted baguette slices.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) log of goat cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh figs
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet.
3. Spread a small amount of goat cheese on each slice.
4. Top with a few chopped figs and a sprinkle of walnuts.
5. Drizzle with honey and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the baguette is toasted.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Fig and Coconut Protein Balls
Get ready to energize your day with these bite-sized Fig and Coconut Protein Balls, packed with nutritious ingredients to fuel your active lifestyle. Made with wholesome ingredients like rolled oats, coconut flakes, and dried figs, these tasty treats provide a boost of protein and fiber.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup dried figs, chopped
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup peanut butter
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Pinch of salt
– Protein powder of your choice (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine chopped figs, unsweetened shredded coconut, and peanut butter. Mix until well combined.
2. Add rolled oats, honey, and salt to the mixture. Stir until a dough forms.
3. Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
4. Place the protein balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
5. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Cooking Time: None
Spiced Fig Chutney with Pecans
This sweet and savory chutney is perfect as a topping for cheeses, meats, or crackers. The combination of caramelized figs, toasted pecans, and warm spices creates a rich and complex flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried figs, stemmed and chopped
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine figs, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, water, and honey. Bring to a boil over high heat.
2. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the mixture has thickened and the figs are tender.
3. Stir in cinnamon, ginger, and cloves. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in chopped pecans and salt to taste.
5. Let cool to room temperature before transferring to an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Fig and Chestnut Stuffing
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of figs with the earthy flavor of chestnuts to create a unique and delicious stuffing perfect for your holiday meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh figs
– 1/4 cup cooked and mashed chestnuts
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine bread cubes, figs, chestnuts, melted butter, honey, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
4. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Discover 18 mouthwatering recipes that combine the sweetness of dried figs with the crunch of nuts. From savory dishes like balsamic glazed pork with dried figs to sweet treats like fig and hazelnut chocolate bark, these recipes will satisfy your cravings. Try stuffed chicken with walnuts, energy balls made with almonds, or warm quinoa salad with pecans and dried figs. Whatever your taste buds desire, this collection of recipes has got you covered.
