Roasted Figs with Labneh & Pistachios Recipe

Honey roasted figs with labneh and pistachios is a sweet and creamy dish made by roasting fresh figs in honey until they are caramelized and soft, then serving them with a tangy and labneh cream cheese, sprinkled with crushed pistachios for added crunch and flavor. It is often served as a dessert or a sweet snack, and is a popular choice for special occasions such as weddings, holiday parties, or a fancy dinner party. Serve it as a light and refreshing breakfast or brunch dish, paired with fresh bread, fruit, or just yogurt. You’ll definitely get complimented on such an elegant appetizer.

More about Labneh Cheese

Labneh is a soft cheese made from strained yogurt. It is easy to make at home by simply adding a bit of salt and straining the excess whey with the help of a strainer and some cheesecloth or other porous fabric. Labneh is popular in the Middle East. Moreover, it is often used as a spread, dip, or topping for various dishes, and is also a common ingredient in dips such as hummus, baba ganoush, and tzatziki. It can be flavored with herbs, spices, or oils, and is often enjoyed with bread, crackers, or fresh vegetables.

Furthermore, labneh cheese can be made from either goat milk or cow milk, although cow milk is more commonly used. The choice of milk used can affect the flavor and texture of the final product, with goat milk labneh typically having a tangier flavor and slightly grainier texture compared to cow milk labneh, which is creamier and milder in flavor. Lastly, both types of milk can be used to make delicious and nutritious labneh, so it really comes down to personal preference and availability.

Nutritional Information

Labneh is a tangy cheese known for its high protein and probiotic content, making it a healthy and nutritious alternative to other cheeses.

In addition, roasted figs have several potential health benefits, some of which include:

1. Rich in fiber: Figs are a good source of fiber, which can help promote digestive health and regulate bowel movements.
2. High in antioxidants: Figs are rich in antioxidants, which can help to reduce oxidative stress and protect cells from damage.
3. Good for heart health: Figs contain potassium, magnesium, and calcium, which can help to support heart health by regulating blood pressure and reducing the risk of heart disease.
4. Low in calories: Roasting sweet figs can reduce their calorie content, making them a good option for those who are trying to manage their weight.
5. Good for bones: Figs are a good source of calcium and magnesium, which are important minerals for maintaining strong and healthy bones.

Again it’s important to note that while roasted figs can have health benefits, they should be consumed in moderation as they are also high in natural sugars.

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Ingredients

• 2 cups whole-fat plain Greek yogurt
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 8 large ripe figs, cut in half lengthwise
• 3 tablespoons local honey, or your favorite variety of honey, divided
• ¼ cups pistachio nuts, chopped

Equipment

• Cheese cloth
• Baking dish
• Cutting board and knife
• Small bowl
• Parchment paper

Instructions

1. To make the labneh, combine yogurt and salt in a small bowl and stir until blended. Line a metal strainer with several layers of cheesecloth and position strainer over a large, deep bowl.
2. Transfer yogurt mixture to the lined strainer and cover. Place in the refrigerator to drain for 1-2 days. (The longer the yogurt is strained, the firmer the labneh will become).
3. To prepare roasted figs, pre-heat oven to 350°F and line a large, rimmed baking tray with parchment paper or a Silpat® baking sheet. Arrange sliced figs on baking sheet, cut side up, and drizzle with some honey. 
4. Place baking sheet in pre-heated oven and roast for 30-35 minutes. Remove from oven and let cool for several minutes.
5. Top each roasted fig with a spoonful of fresh labneh and a sprinkle of chopped pistachios. Drizzle with some local honey and serve immediately. Enjoy! 

Cooking Tips

• If you don’t have time to prepare the labneh for this recipe, you can substitute goat cheese or even cream cheese for a less tangy alternative.

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