Recipe by: Boukje 

Serving Size: This recipe serves 2 people as a main or 4 as a side dish.

When you're in the mood for something fresh, vibrant, and full of flavor, this Vegan Aged Cheese and Fig Salad should be at the top of your list. It's a delightful fusion of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors, all coming together in one refreshing bowl. The creamy Fermaggio aged white cheese is the star of this salad, offering the same satisfying tang and texture you expect from a dairy cheese, but completely plant-based. The figs, with their natural sweetness and soft texture, provide the perfect contrast to the rich cheese and crunchy walnuts.

What makes this salad even more special is the base: lentil couscous. It’s hearty, slightly nutty, and packed with plant-based protein. It brings a filling element to the salad, making it more than just a light side dish—it can easily stand alone as a complete meal. The couscous works harmoniously with the other ingredients, absorbing the flavors of the dressing and providing a soft, tender contrast to the crisp greens and figs.

The addition of fresh herbs like parsley adds a burst of freshness, while the walnuts provide a satisfying crunch that balances the creamy and soft elements of the dish. And let's not forget the final touch—a drizzle of maple syrup (or agave syrup) that ties everything together. The syrup adds a delicate sweetness that enhances the figs' flavor and complements the salty tang of the cheese. It's a simple yet effective way to elevate the entire salad.

What’s also great about this salad is its versatility. You can easily swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand or what’s in season. For example, sliced pears or apples can replace the figs if you prefer a different fruit. You could even experiment with different vegan cheeses  or if you’d like to try something new. Additionally, you can use other nuts, like pistachios or almonds, for an extra texture boost. The flavor possibilities are endless!

Fun Fact About Figs: Figs are one of the oldest fruits in human history and have been enjoyed by cultures around the world for centuries. In Italy, figs are often used in savory dishes, paired with cheese, prosciutto, or even incorporated into desserts like fig cakes and tarts. Their sweetness and soft texture make them a perfect match for rich, salty cheeses in salads and appetizers.

Ingredients:

• 75g lettuce (I used an arugula mix)
• 60g lentil couscous
• 2 figs, sliced
• 1/3 Fermaggio aged white cheese, crumbled
• A handful of walnuts, chopped
• Fresh herbs (I used parsley)
• A drizzle of maple or agave syrup

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Couscous: In a pan or bowl, add the lentil couscous and pour in boiled water in a 1:1 ratio. Let it sit for about 5 minutes, then fluff it up with a fork.
2. Assemble the Salad: Slice the figs into thin rounds. In a large bowl, combine the lettuce, couscous, and figs.
3. Top the Salad: Crumble the Fermaggio aged white cheese over the top of the salad, and sprinkle the chopped walnuts and fresh parsley.
4. Finish with Syrup: Drizzle maple or agave syrup over the salad to add a sweet touch that complements the figs and cheese beautifully.

This Vegan Aged Cheese and Fig Salad is a perfect combination of textures and flavors, with the creaminess of the aged cheese, sweetness from the figs, and crunch from the walnuts. It’s a light yet satisfying dish that works as a perfect main for a lighter meal or as a refreshing side to a hearty dinner. Give it a try today and don't forget to share your creations with us on Instagram using #VegalianoEats!

Tip: Feel free to mix up the toppings with your favorite nuts, such as almonds or pistachios, or swap out the figs for sliced pears or apples for a different flavor profile. You can also use balsamic glaze instead of syrup for a tangy twist.