Grilled Fig, Prosciutto, and Goat Cheese Salad
This salad is a perfect balance of sweet, salty, and tangy flavors. The grilled figs add a smoky sweetness, while the prosciutto provides a salty crunch. The goat cheese adds a creamy richness, and the arugula and walnuts add a peppery bite and a nutty crunch, respectively. The balsamic vinegar and olive oil dressing ties all the flavors together perfectly.
This salad was inspired by a trip to Italy that I took a few years ago. I was visiting the Tuscany region, and I had the opportunity to try a variety of local dishes. One of my favorites was a salad made with grilled figs, prosciutto, and goat cheese. I was so impressed by the flavor combination that I decided to recreate it at home. Since then, this salad has become a staple in my summer repertoire. It's a light and refreshing dish that's perfect for a warm evening meal. I like to serve it with a glass of chilled white wine.
Grilled Fig, Prosciutto, and Goat Cheese Salad Grilled Fig, Prosciutto, and Goat Cheese Salad Grilled Fig, Prosciutto, and Goat Cheese Salad Grilled Fig, Prosciutto, and Goat Cheese Salad
Prep time: 15 | Cook time: 10 | Serves: 4
Ingredients
  • 6 ripe figs, halved
  • 6 slices prosciutto
  • 4 oz goat cheese, crumbled
  • 1/2 cup arugula
  • 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
  2. Grill the figs for 2-3 minutes per side, or until slightly charred and softened.
  3. Wrap the prosciutto slices around the figs.
  4. Arrange the arugula on a platter and top with the grilled figs, prosciutto, goat cheese, and walnuts.
  5. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
  6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Serve immediately.
Why It Works
  • The combination of sweet and salty flavors is classic, and it works particularly well in this salad because the sweetness of the figs is balanced by the saltiness of the prosciutto. The creamy goat cheese adds a richness that helps to bring the two flavors together, and the peppery arugula and crunchy walnuts add a nice contrast in texture.
  • Grilling the figs intensifies their flavor and gives them a slightly smoky taste. This adds a depth of flavor to the salad that would be missing if the figs were simply roasted or baked.
  • The balsamic vinegar and olive oil dressing is a simple but effective way to finish the salad. The acidity of the vinegar helps to balance the sweetness of the figs and prosciutto, and the olive oil adds a richness that helps to bring all the flavors together.