Fig & Arugula Salad

Some things we just can't help inheriting from our parents.  For example, my dad has left me with a love of figs.  Dad has been on a quest to grow and eat the perfect figs for as long as I can remember.  His little fig tree in the back yard has been attacked by birds and battered by frost however it keeps growing under his watchful eye (and stomach).  Alas, I live in an apartment and can't grow my own figs but I can buy them at Whole Foods (for a pretty penny) and make yummy salads like this one with them! 

This salad was so incredible easy to make and so full of flavor and vibrant colors.  It's the perfect accompaniment to a simple meal such as Whole Wheat Pasta with Pepper & Pecorino Romano.  The tang of the arugula and raddicho mixed with the sweetness of the figs and saltiness of the pine nuts is just the right cominbation of flavors.  The salad has so much flavor that the dressing is nothing more than a simple dusting of olive oil and balsalmic vinegar.  I highly recommend you make this tonight!

Fig & Arugula Salad

4 oz of Arugula
1 Head of Radicchio
8 to 10 Fresh Figs 
1/4 Cup of Pine Nuts
2 Tablespoons of Extra Virgin Olive Oil
2 Tablespoons of Balsamic Vinegar
Salt and Pepper to taste

Cut the head of radicchio in half, core it, and slice into roughly 1/4 inch pieces.   Cut and quarter the figs.  Add the radicchio, figs, arugula, and pine nuts to a medium size bowl and toss.  Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.  Add salt and pepper to taste.