Snacking on dried fruits and nuts (rich in omega-3 fatty acids) is an essential part of the Mediterranean diet and my pantry is generally stocked with a variety of both. Dates, figs, walnuts, almonds and pistachios are in the majority.
The natural fruit sugar provides a burst of quick energy, while the healthy fat in the nuts helps take the edge off hunger.
Combining honey, nuts and fresh citrus zest, not only makes a delicious stuffing for figs but, can also be enjoyed, stirred into oatmeal, scattered over yogurt, sprinkled on your favorite flavor of gelato and when no one’s looking … by the spoonful.
Ingredients:
- 1/3 cup chopped almonds
- 1/3 cup chopped hazelnuts
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons honey, plus more for drizzling
- Dried figs
- Using a large skillet, toast the chopped almonds and hazelnuts. Remove from heat and and mix in the orange and lemon zest. Add in the honey and stir until thoroughly combined.
- Cut the figs almost in half and stuff with the nut mixture. I use my hands and press it into the bottom half (to keep it in place) and then press on the top to close it.
- Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake in a 350* oven for 10-12 minutes.
- Serve warm with an additional drizzle of honey if you please.
