Grilled Figs on Yogurt and Balsamic Glaze

Grilled Figs on Yogurt and Balsamic Glaze is a dish that perfectly balances sweetness, creaminess, and a touch of tang. As summer winds down and fig season reaches its peak, there’s no better way to celebrate this delightful fruit than by grilling it to caramelized perfection. Pairing the figs with low-fat Greek yogurt and a drizzle of balsamic glaze creates a luxurious dessert that’s deceptively easy to prepare. This dish is not only stunning to look at but also incredibly satisfying to eat, making it the perfect finale to any meal or a refreshing snack on its own.

Why It’s My Go-To

What makes Grilled Figs on Yogurt and Balsamic Glaze my go-to dessert? It’s the perfect blend of simplicity and sophistication. The grilling process enhances the figs’ natural sugars, giving them a warm, caramelized flavor that’s hard to resist. Combined with the creamy richness of Greek yogurt and the tangy sweetness of balsamic glaze, this dish elevates the humble fig to new heights. Plus, it’s a stunning dish that impresses guests while being effortless to prepare, allowing me to enjoy the moment with friends and family.

What Goes Into Grilled Figs on Yogurt and Balsamic Glaze

Creating this delightful dish requires just a few simple ingredients that come together beautifully:

• 4 cups Greek yogurt, low-fat: A creamy base that adds richness without being overly indulgent.
• 8 figs, quartered: Fresh figs are the star of the show, lending their natural sweetness and a unique texture.
• 1/4 cup almonds, shaved: Toasted almonds provide a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that complements the figs.
• 4 teaspoons balsamic glaze: A sweet and tangy reduction that enhances the figs and yogurt.
• Mint leaves, fresh, for garnishing: A touch of freshness that brightens the dish and adds a pop of color.

Prep & Cook Tools

To create your Grilled Figs on Yogurt and Balsamic Glaze, you’ll need the following tools:

• Grill or Grill Pan: Essential for grilling the figs to achieve that smoky, caramelized flavor.
• Mixing Bowl: For combining the Greek yogurt and any flavorings you may wish to add.
• Knife: To quarter the figs easily and prepare your ingredients.
• Serving Dish: Presentation is key, so choose a dish that showcases your creation beautifully.

Directions: Grilled Figs on Yogurt and Balsamic Glaze

Step 1: Prepare the Figs

Begin by washing the figs thoroughly under cool water. Pat them dry with a paper towel. Once they are clean, carefully quarter each fig, cutting them into four pieces. Be gentle to keep the shape intact.

Step 2: Preheat the Grill

If you’re using an outdoor grill, preheat it to medium heat. For a grill pan, place it over medium heat on the stovetop. Allow it to heat for a few minutes until it’s hot enough to create grill marks.

Step 3: Grill the Figs

Once your grill or grill pan is ready, place the quartered figs cut-side down on the grill. Grill for about 2-3 minutes, or until you see beautiful grill marks and the figs begin to soften. Flip them carefully to grill the other side for an additional minute. Remove the figs from the grill and set them aside to cool slightly.

Step 4: Prepare the Yogurt

In a mixing bowl, you may choose to stir in a tablespoon of honey or vanilla extract into the Greek yogurt for added flavor, though it’s delightful on its own. Spread the yogurt evenly across the bottom of your serving dish.

Step 5: Assemble the Dish

Once the figs have cooled slightly, arrange the grilled figs on top of the yogurt. Drizzle the balsamic glaze generously over the figs and yogurt. Finish with a sprinkle of shaved almonds and garnish with fresh mint leaves for that extra touch of elegance.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Your Grilled Figs on Yogurt and Balsamic Glaze is now ready to be served! This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but it can also be refrigerated for a short time if needed.

If You’re Out Of…

In case you find yourself missing any of these ingredients, here are some alternatives:

• Figs: If you can’t find fresh figs, try using grilled peaches or nectarines as a substitute.
• Greek Yogurt: Substitute with regular yogurt or a dairy-free alternative like coconut yogurt.
• Balsamic Glaze: A mixture of balsamic vinegar and a touch of honey can work in a pinch.
• Almonds: Any nuts, such as walnuts or pistachios, can be used, or you can omit them entirely for a nut-free version.

Notes on Ingredients

When selecting figs, look for ones that are plump and slightly soft to the touch; these are the ripest and sweetest. If fresh figs are unavailable, you can also use dried figs, but the texture and flavor will differ. As for the yogurt, low-fat Greek yogurt provides a wonderful creamy texture while keeping the dish lighter. The balsamic glaze can be homemade by reducing balsamic vinegar over low heat until thickened or purchased from the store for convenience.

Save for Later: Storage Tips

Grilled Figs on Yogurt and Balsamic Glaze is best enjoyed fresh, but if you need to store leftovers, here are a few tips:

• Store any leftover grilled figs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days.
• Keep the yogurt and figs separate until ready to serve to maintain the yogurt’s texture.
• Reheat figs gently on the grill or in a pan before serving again.

Quick Questions

Can I use frozen figs for this recipe?

While fresh figs are ideal, frozen figs can be used if you thaw them first. However, they may not hold their shape as well when grilled.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

This dish is best prepared fresh, but you can grill the figs ahead of time and store them separately from the yogurt for quick assembly later.

Can I make this vegan?

Yes! You can substitute the Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt, and the dish will still be delicious.

What other toppings can I add?

Feel free to get creative! Add fresh berries, a sprinkle of granola, or a drizzle of honey for added sweetness.

Try These Next

• Honey Roasted Peaches with Yogurt
• Grilled Nectarines with Ricotta and Honey
• Berry Parfait with Nut Granola
• Lemon Basil Sorbet with Fresh Fruit

In Closing

Grilled Figs on Yogurt and Balsamic Glaze is a dish that celebrates the beauty of simple ingredients while offering an impressive presentation that’s sure to wow anyone who tries it. Whether you’re enjoying it as a light dessert, a sophisticated brunch dish, or a refreshing snack, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. The combination of creamy yogurt, sweet figs, crunchy almonds, and tangy balsamic glaze creates a symphony of flavors and textures that you won’t soon forget. So fire up that grill, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself to this delightful dish that’s perfect for any occasion!