Exploits of a Vegan Wannabe

Fresh figs are now in season and have graced the shelves of our local markets. When they finally appear I begin to purchase them like I require them for my very survival. I buy them en masse because I adore them, but also because I fear and dread their inevitable disappearance.

According to EatTheSeason.com, fig season begins at the end of July and will last through the first part of  September.  Here is an easy appetizer/snack recipe that will show off your  fancy figs. It is a savory pate made creamy by soaked  pistachios and cashews then adorned with brown sugar grilled figs. This dish looks and tastes swanky without the added effort. I love that.

Pistachio Pate with Grilled Figs

by: S. Duquet

Pate Ingredients

1 C raw pistachios

1 C raw cashews

enough water to cover all nuts

1/8 tsp sea salt

1 tsp orange extract

Fig topping ingredients

9 ripe green or black figs cut in half

1 tsp brown sugar

coconut oil or spray oil to lightly coat grill pan

Make it Happen

Pate

~Put pistachios and cashews in a bowl and add water to cover. Allow nuts to soak in fridge for several hours or overnight.

~Drain and rinse nuts

~Put in food processor or blender with salt and orange extract

~Blend until smooth and creamy like a thick hummus, adding 1 Tbsp of water at a time as necessary.

Grilled Figs

~Put fig halves in a bowl with brown sugar and toss to coat

~Lightly oil grill pan and grill figs until lightly browned and carmellized

To serve:

~Spread pate on bruschetta toasts or crackers, top with grilled figs and enjoy.

We recently served this dish to our friends at an outdoor event and it was met with adoration and praise. The bonus was having plenty of pate left over to enjoy for several more days.

Additional uses for our pate:

As topping for french toast or pancakes

On a toasted English muffin

As a sandwich spread on lavash loaves with peppers and arugula

As a dip for fresh veggies and sliced fruit

In a celery boat…the possibilities are endless.

I think you are going to like how the beauty and deliciousness of this dish is in no way commensurate to the amount of work you will perform.

Have a delicious day.

Tags: compassionate eating, dairy free, grilled figs, pistachio and cashew spread, pistachio pate with grilled figs, plant based diet, vegan pate, vegan wannabe