People think fresh figs are elegant—and this preparation definitely is. To be honest, figs are not my favorite fruit, but when I make them this way I really love ’em. They are a quick and easy (Q&E) piccolino. Cut ’em, stuff ’em, and roast ’em until everything melts and gets all toasty—it’s SOOOOO easy!

　　

Ingredients

serves: 6 to 8

　　12 fresh Black Mission, Brown Turkish, or (in a pinch) dried figs

　　High-quality balsamic vinegar

　　Kosher salt

　　8 ounces Gorgonzola Dolce, at room temperature

　　1/2 cup walnuts, quartered and toasted (see page 17)

　　

Step 1

Preheat the oven to 350°F.

　　

Step 2

Slice the figs in half lengthwise, place them on a baking sheet, and dig a little hole in the middle with your pinky finger. Drizzle the fig halves with 2 or 3 drops of balsamic vinegar and sprinkle with salt.

　　

Step 3

Fill each fig with Gorgonzola and top with a quarter of a walnut. Bake for 5 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

　　Cook Like a Rock Star