Figs with Blue Cheese and Balsamic Reduction

Figs with Blue Cheese and Balsamic Reduction are an easy and elegant appetizer that can be prepared in just minutes.

Figs and blue cheese are a classic flavor combination and rich syrupy balsamic vinegar is the perfect way to enhance their bold flavors. Figs are in season right now and fresh figs are such a treat. Fig season only lasts a couple months, so I always try to get them while I can, and this recipe is one of my favorite ways to eat figs.

This is just the thing to serve at a dinner party or cocktail party. It is a finger food appetizer with sophisticated ingredients that pairs beautifully with red wine. I love that this is served at room temperature. You can prepare it before guests arrive, arrange the figs on a platter, and place it on the counter or coffee table before anyone even arrives. It is a recipe that makes entertaining seem easy.

The only cooking involved in this recipe is reducing the balsamic vinegar. This takes less than 5 minutes, you just need to make sure that you keep a close watch on the balsamic vinegar as it simmers. Balsamic vinegar can thicken up very quickly, and if you don’t watch it you are at risk of having it burn. Just as long as you focus on one thing and don’t burn the balsamic, you will be all set. Let’s just say that is a mistake you make only once.

The process of preparing this appetizer is simple. Slice the figs in half, then arrange some blue cheese crumbles on top of the figs. Then top with some balsamic reduction.

I thought about slicing the figs and serving them on slices of toasted French bread, but made the last second decision that a simple three ingredient appetizer of figs, blue cheese, and balsamic would be easier and equally delicious.

Does anyone else out there love figs? How do you like to serve them?

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Figs with Blue Cheese and Balsamic Reduction

Figs with Blue Cheese and Balsamic Reduction are an easy and elegant appetizer that can be prepared in just minutes.

Ingredients

• Figs
• Blue Cheese
• 1/2 cup Balsamic Vinegar

Instructions

1. Pour the balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan. Heat over medium low heat and bring to a simmer. Let simmer until the balsamic vinegar reduces by half and becomes thick and syrupy. Then remove from the heat and let cool.
2. Assemble the appetizer by slicing the figs in half, topping with blue cheese, and adding balsamic drizzle.