Chopped Salad with Figs and Blue Cheese Recipe

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients:

• 2 slices thick cut bacon, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 12 fresh figs, halved
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 8 cups chopped romaine lettuce
• 1/4 cup sliced toasted almonds
• 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese

Directions:

1. Place bacon in a large skillet and cook over medium-high heat, turning occasionally, until evenly browned, about 5 to 10 minutes. Once browned, transfer bacon to paper towels to drain. Reserve 1/2 teaspoon of the drippings in the skillet.
2. Add figs to the skillet, cut sides down. Cook for about 3 minutes or until the figs are nicely browned.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. Add the browned figs, crispy bacon, chopped romaine lettuce, toasted almonds, and crumbled blue cheese to the bowl. Toss everything together gently until evenly coated.

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

Calories	229
Total Fat	16g
Saturated Fat	4g
Cholesterol	12mg
Sodium	362mg
Total Carbohydrates	16g
Dietary Fiber	4g
Total Sugars	11g
Protein	7g
Vitamin C	5mg
Calcium	119mg
Iron	2mg
Potassium	469mg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Origin Story
The chopped salad with figs and blue cheese is a contemporary American dish that showcases the rich flavors of the late summer and early fall seasons. Figs, which are in peak season during the late summer months, are paired with the sharpness of blue cheese and the crunch of fresh romaine lettuce, creating a balanced dish that is both savory and sweet. The incorporation of bacon adds a touch of smokiness, while toasted almonds introduce a delightful crunch. This salad is a perfect representation of modern American cuisine, where chefs blend seasonal ingredients to create fresh, flavorful, and aesthetically pleasing dishes.

Regional Features
Although it is primarily considered an American dish, the components of the chopped salad with figs and blue cheese have strong regional influences. Figs, for instance, have deep roots in Mediterranean cuisine, where they have been cultivated for centuries. Their popularity in the dish stems from their ability to balance the strong, tangy flavor of blue cheese. Additionally, blue cheese, a product most famously associated with the United States, specifically the region of Roquefort in France, adds a creamy, pungent element that contrasts beautifully with the figs' sweetness. This salad, though largely American in preparation, reflects a global exchange of culinary influences.

Difference from Similar Dishes
This salad stands out from other similar dishes due to its unique combination of flavors. While many salads feature sweet fruits and creamy cheeses, the addition of crispy bacon and toasted almonds sets this dish apart. The bacon provides a savory contrast to the sweet figs, while the almonds introduce a satisfying crunch that complements the soft textures of the lettuce and cheese. Compared to typical salads with fruits like apples or pears, figs offer a more concentrated sweetness and an earthy flavor that makes the salad more robust. Additionally, the use of blue cheese, rather than a milder cheese like goat cheese or feta, gives the dish a sharp, tangy profile that balances the sweetness of the figs in a more dynamic way.

Where It Is Typically Served
The chopped salad with figs and blue cheese is a versatile dish that can be served in various settings. It is ideal as a side dish for dinner parties, particularly during the late summer and fall when figs are in season. The salad is also commonly found in upscale restaurants that focus on seasonal, farm-to-table offerings. Additionally, it can be served at holiday gatherings or as a light lunch option. Its combination of fresh, seasonal ingredients makes it perfect for special occasions or casual dining alike. The salad's elegant presentation and balance of flavors make it an excellent choice for those looking to impress guests with something both simple and refined.

Interesting Facts
Figs are one of the oldest cultivated fruits in the world, with evidence of their cultivation dating back over 11,000 years. The fig tree is native to the Middle East and Western Asia, and its fruit has been a symbol of fertility and abundance in many ancient cultures. Figs are also packed with nutrients such as fiber, potassium, and antioxidants. In the culinary world, figs are often paired with cheeses like blue cheese or goat cheese, as the contrast of flavors enhances both ingredients. Interestingly, blue cheese, which has a distinct mold running through it, gets its signature flavor from Penicillium cultures, making it a fascinating example of how mold can be used to enhance the taste of a food. This unique pairing of figs and blue cheese in the salad not only celebrates the flavors of the season but also pays homage to the rich agricultural history behind these ingredients.

FAQ about Chopped Salad with Figs and Blue Cheese Recipe