A Symphony of Sweet and Savory: Grilled Fig Salad with Balsamic Glaze

This grilled fig salad is a beautiful explosion of flavors and textures. The sweetness of the grilled figs pairs perfectly with the salty richness of cheese and the tangy vinaigrette. Topped with a homemade balsamic glaze, it's a salad that's both impressive and surprisingly simple to make.

Ingredients:

For the Salad:

• 4 large fresh figs (Black Mission or Calimyrna are good choices)
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 4 cups mixed salad greens (arugula, spinach, baby kale work well)
• 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese (or goat cheese, feta cheese)
• 1/4 cup toasted walnuts or pecans
• Cracked black pepper, to taste

For the Balsamic Glaze:

• 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• Pinch of cinnamon (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 350°F / 175°C).
2. Fig prep: Trim the stems from the figs and cut them in half lengthwise.
3. Olive oil magic: Brush the cut sides of the figs lightly with olive oil.
4. Kiss of the grill: Place the fig halves face down on the preheated grill. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are slightly softened and caramelized. Don't overcook them or they'll become mushy.
5. Salad assembly: While the figs are grilling, arrange the mixed greens in a large serving bowl.
6. Cheese crumbles: Top the greens with the crumbled blue cheese (or your chosen cheese).
7. Nutty goodness: Sprinkle the toasted walnuts or pecans over the salad.
8. The star arrives: Once the figs are grilled, arrange them cut-side up on top of the salad.
9. Balsamic glaze magic (optional): Create a delicious balsamic glaze by simmering balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, and a pinch of cinnamon (if using) in a small saucepan over medium heat until the mixture thickens and reduces by half. This will take about 10-15 minutes. Let it cool slightly before drizzling.
10. Finishing touches: Season the salad with freshly cracked black pepper to taste.
11. The grand finale: Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the salad, adding as much or as little as you like.
12. Serve and enjoy! Toss the salad gently to combine all the flavors and enjoy this beautiful and delicious creation.

Tips:

• For a vegetarian option, omit the cheese. The grilled figs and balsamic glaze provide plenty of flavor on their own.
• Add a protein element to make it a more filling meal. Barbecued chicken, shrimp, or tofu would all be tasty increases.
• Don't have a grill? You can pan-fry the figs in a skillet with a little olive oil over medium heat.
• Remaining serving of mixed greens can be put away in an hermetically sealed holder within the fridge for up to 2 days.  However, the balsamic glaze may lose some of its consistency, so it's best to add it just before serving.

This grilled fig salad with balsamic glaze is a perfect summer side dish or light lunch. It's a delightful combination of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.