GRILLED FIGS WITH VANILLA-SCENTED MASCARPONE

SERVES 4

When fresh figs are available, try this wonderful dessert that’s both fast and elegant. With just a quick moment on the grill, the figs become jammy. The figs, maple, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla-scented mascarpone are a match made in heaven. (You could substitute greek yogurt or ricotta for the mascarpone.) You can also serve this at breakfast.

Ingredients

1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

8 ripe but firm fresh figs, halved

1 tablespoon grade B maple syrup

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions

½ cup mascarpone cheese

½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Sprinkle of ground nutmeg

Fresh spearmint leaves, sliced

1. Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Rub the olive oil onto the cut sides of the figs. Place on the grill, flat side down, for about 2 to 3 minutes or until grill marks appear. Turn the figs over using tongs or a spatula and grill for another 2 to 3 minutes on the other side.

2. Remove the figs to a platter, then brush each fig on the cut side with maple syrup and sprinkle with cinnamon.

3. Meanwhile, mix together the mascarpone and vanilla extract in a small bowl. Top each fig with a dollop of the cheese mixture and a shaving of nutmeg. Garnish the platter with spearmint and serve immediately.