Chocolate Covered Figs

Soft figs coated in dark chocolate, stuffed with crunchy almonds and sprinkled with sea salt.  A simple snack for a healthy midday pick-me-up.

In the states, a quick snack calls for a stop at the corner store for a granola bar. Yet the Italians reach for figs: fig-jam on toast for breakfast, dried figs for a snack and fresh figs for dessert. Part of enjoying Italy is exploring the art of eating well. Figs are the all-encompassing Italian snack, enjoyed dried or fresh. Similar to dates, figs are a source of lasting energy, yet the Italians are drawn to this fruit not because of its practical use but rather for its unique taste.  

Bringing new light to an Italian staple: stuff it with almonds, coat it in chocolate and sprinkle with sea salt.  Fig’s have a natural sweetness and when coated in dark chocolate, with an almond hidden inside, creates a crunchy, decadent bite.  I rely on the ease of this recipe making it in bulk, preparing 20-30 at a time. I pack a few figs for work and freeze the rest for a sweet snack later in the week.  Not only does this snack remind me of the beautiful Italian lifestyle but that simple foods, made from scratch, have a way of evoking memories in a way that no store bought granola bar ever can…

Serves: 12

Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cook Time: 5 minutes

Ingredients for the Chocolate Covered Figs:

- 12 dried figs (I like Black Mission figs)

- ½ bar of dark chocolate (or any kind)

- 12 almonds

- sea salt

Instructions:

Simply take one whole almond and push it into the base of the fig (the end without the stem). Then dip into the melted chocolate.

For the chocolate coating - simply melt the bar of chocolate over low heat in a saucepan, stirring as it melts.  Then dip the stuffed figs into the chocolate sauce, top with sea salt and place in the freezer to harden for 15 minutes.  Enjoy!

I hope you guys enjoy this delicious snack and that it quickly becomes a staple in your kitchen.  Comment below to share which dried fruit and healthy snacks keep you going throughout the week! I'm always looking for new inspiration from you guys :)

xx Marie