One for the Table: Seduced by Greek yogurt parfaits

By Susan Russo on Aug 24, 2015

Oscar Wilde said, "I can resist everything but temptation." I think he had fresh figs in mind when he said that.

Consider this: Recently, at the farmers' market, I spotted close to a dozen people eating fresh figs as they shopped. That's because everything about fresh figs is irresistible: their pleasingly plump stature, their velvet skin splitting with ripeness, their ambrosial pink flesh.

Despite fresh figs' high price tag, usually $4 to $6 per pound, San Diego shoppers couldn't get enough of them. I also can't get enough of these simple, no-bake Greek yogurt, fresh fig and black currant parfaits. This dessert proves that opposites attract: Sweet figs and tart black currants, syrupy honey and spicy cinnamon, and earthy rosemary and tangy lemon zest are enfolded in luscious, creamy Greek yogurt.

I just know Oscar Wilde wouldn't have been able to resist them either.

Greek Yogurt, Fresh Fig and Black Currant Parfaits

Makes 2 servings

2 tablespoons honey

A couple of pinches of cinnamon

A couple of pinches of salt

A couple of pinches of lemon zest

1/2 teaspoon chopped fresh rosemary

2 cups non-fat Greek yogurt

6 fresh figs, quartered

1/2 cup fresh black currants (see note)

1 tablespoon pistachios

1. Heat honey, cinnamon, salt, lemon zest and rosemary either in the microwave or on the stovetop until warm and smooth. Remove from heat.

2. Use two cocktail glasses to assemble parfaits. Start with yogurt at the base. Then top with fig pieces, currants, pistachios and honey sauce. Repeat. Eat. Make again tomorrow.

Note: Black currants are small, round berries with a glossy black skin and tart flesh. They're available at farmers' markets and organic markets. If you can't find them, blackberries make a good substitute. Dried black currants are more widely available, but their flavor and texture is sweeter like a raisin.

(Susan Russo is a freelance food writer in San Diego, Calif. One for the Table is Amy Ephron's online magazine that specializes in food, politics and love. www.oneforthetable.com.)