Fig Goat Cheese Arugula Pasta (Printable Version)

A vibrant pasta salad with figs, goat cheese, arugula, pepitas, and balsamic glaze. Fresh, creamy, and perfect for gatherings.

# What You'll Need:

→ Pasta

01 - 250 g orecchiette or farfalle pasta
02 - Salt, for boiling water

→ Salad

03 - 100 g baby arugula
04 - 6–8 fresh figs, quartered, or 8 dried figs, sliced
05 - 100 g goat cheese, crumbled
06 - 40 g pepitas (pumpkin seeds) or sliced almonds, toasted

→ Dressing

07 - 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
08 - 1 tbsp honey
09 - 1 tbsp balsamic glaze, plus extra for drizzling
10 - 1/2 tsp sea salt
11 - 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper

# Steps to Follow:

01 - Boil pasta in a large pot of salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
02 - In a small skillet over medium heat, toast the pepitas or almonds for 2–3 minutes until fragrant. Set aside to cool.
03 - Whisk together olive oil, honey, balsamic glaze, sea salt, and black pepper in a small bowl until emulsified.
04 - In a large salad bowl, mix the cooled pasta, arugula, figs, and half of the goat cheese. Drizzle with dressing and toss gently.
05 - Sprinkle the toasted pepitas or almonds and remaining goat cheese on top. Drizzle with additional balsamic glaze to finish. Serve immediately or chill for up to 1 hour before serving.

# Additional Tips::

01 -
  • Uses easy to find ingredients with minimal prep work
  • Elevates weeknight dinners or makes an impressive party salad
  • Bursting with contrasting flavors cheesy tangy sweet and savory all in one bowl
  • Vegetarian friendly and adaptable for gluten free eaters
02 -
  • Packed with fiber and protein makes a satisfying vegetarian main
  • Can be prepared ahead for meal prep or gatherings
  • Figs offer antioxidants and natural sweetness
  • The pepitas bring crunch without using typical nuts and are often safe for allergy friendly cooking
03 -
  • Always toast the pepitas or almonds to bring out their best flavor.
  • Let the pasta cool completely before tossing to keep the greens from wilting.
  • Choose the ripest figs you can find for the sweetest, juiciest result.