ROASTED FIGS WITH PEPPER AND PROSCIUTTO

"This is a variation on a favorite Italian antipasto, where fresh fig quarters are wrapped in prosciutto and served cold."

4 paper-thin slices prosciutto
4 ripe fresh figs
1 tbsp olive oil
freshly ground black pepper

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.

Cut each slice of prosciutto lengthwise into four strips.

Peel figs and quarter lengthwise.

Grease the bottom of a small roasting pan or ovenproof skillet with half of the oil. Wrap of strip of prosciutto around each fig quarter and place in the pan. Sprinkle generously with pepper.

Roast the figs until they are hot all the way through, but not falling apart, about 5 to 8 minutes, depending upon the ripeness of the figs.

Servings: 4
Source: Yankee Magazine's Christmas in New England, 1995