Saffron-Infused Fig & Halloumi Bites with Honey-Pistachio Drizzle

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.

2. 2

   Gently rinse the figs and trim off the stems. Cut each fig in half lengthwise.

   ~5 min
3. 3

   In a small bowl, steep the saffron threads in 50 ml of hot water for at least 10 minutes.

   ~10 min
4. 4

   Arrange the fig halves on the prepared baking tray. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and the saffron-infused water. Season with a pinch of black pepper.

   ~5 min
5. 5

   Roast the figs for 15-20 minutes, or until they are softened and slightly caramelized.

   ~20 min
6. 6

   While the figs are roasting, slice the halloumi cheese into approximately 1 cm (0.4 inch) thick pieces.

   ~5 min
7. 7

   Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Sear the halloumi slices for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown and slightly crispy.

   ~10 min
8. 8

   In a small bowl, combine the honey, chopped pistachios, and chopped mint leaves. Stir well.

   ~2 min
9. 9

   To assemble, place a slice of seared halloumi on a serving plate. Top with a roasted fig half. Drizzle generously with the honey-pistachio mixture and a little balsamic glaze.

   ~3 min
10. 10

    Serve immediately.