Blackberry Fig Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette

Is there a support group out there for people who are addicted to cookbooks?

I kid you not when I tell you that my current cookbook count is at 89 books, and is showing no signs of slowing. The collection has long since outgrown the bookshelves I bought especially for it two years ago. Now the books spill over onto the couch, windowsills, and night table. Yes, I read cookbooks in bed, like normal people read novels and magazines.

The point of this confession, though, is to say this: When I came home on Friday with some magnificent blackberries and figs, not a single one of the 89 cookbooks on my shelf had a recipe for the salad I was envisioning. So I concocted it myself. I take all the credit.

The combination of blackberries and figs might be unexpected, but boy, did it work. The addition of basil in the vinaigrette was a wonderful touch, too. If you can get a hold of some seasonal blackberries and figs, please try this salad. And, if you own anywhere near as many cookbooks as I do, please offer your support by commenting on this post. Your words will be a comfort to my addicted soul.

Blackberry Fig Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette

Serves 4; 15 minutes prep

1 head of green or red leaf lettuce

4 figs

16 blackberries, cleaned and dried

a handful of pecans, toasted

goat cheese, optional

1/4 cup olive oil

2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

3-4 leaves of basil (more if they are small)

1/4 teaspoon salt

some black pepper

1/8 teaspoon sugar

1 clove garlic, chopped

Clean and dry the greens and then set them aside in a large bowl. 

In a mini blender, combine the olive oil, vinegar, basil, salt, pepper, sugar, and garlic. Blend till smooth. (You can use a jar instead. The texture will be a bit less smooth and you'll want to crush the garlic and chop the basil.) 

Immediately before serving, toss the greens with the dressing. Put 1/4 of the greens on each of four plates. Arrange the blackberries, figs, and pecans on top of the greens. Crumble on some goat cheese, if desired. Serve immediately. 

Linking this up to Weekend Bloggy Reading, Mingle Monday, Fit and Fabulous Fridays and Ultimate Recipe Swap.