Grilled Figs with Ham, Walnuts, and Mint Cream

Step 1

Roughly chop leaves and stems of 3 mint sprigs. Place in a mortar and pestle, and grind until thoroughly crushed. Add lemon juice, and let stand 1 hour.

Step 2

Preheat a charcoal or gas grill to medium-high (about 450°F). Grease grill grates with olive oil.

Step 3

While grill preheats, gently press 1 walnut half into cut side of each fig half. Wrap 1 ham slice around each walnut-stuffed fig half.

Step 4

Place cream in a small bowl. Place mint mixture in a wire-mesh strainer over cream, and press on mint solids to extract liquid. Season with salt, a splash of hot sauce, and lemon zest. Stir until mixture thickens.

Step 5

Place stuffed figs on oiled grill grate, and grill, uncovered, until ham is lightly charred, fat has begun to melt, and figs begin to soften and ooze, 4 to 5 minutes. Transfer to a serving platter. Grate lemon over warm figs. Garnish with sliced mint, and serve immediately with mint cream.