Discover the rich and sweet flavors of Tarta de Higo, a delectable fig tart made with fresh local figs. This easy-to-follow recipe brings together a buttery crust and a luscious fig filling for a perfect dessert that's both elegant and simple. Ideal for showcasing seasonal figs, this fig tart is a must-try for dessert lovers and a fantastic way to use up ripe figs.

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

 - 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

 - 1/4 cup granulated sugar

 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed

 - 1/4 teaspoon salt

 - 1 egg yolk

 - 2-3 tablespoons cold water

For the Filling:

 - 2 cups fresh figs, quartered

 - 1/2 cup granulated sugar

 - 1 tablespoon lemon juice

 - 1 tablespoon cornstarch

 - 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Garnish (optional):

 - Powdered sugar

 - Fresh mint leaves

Instructions:

Prepare the Crust:

  - In a food processor, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the chilled butter and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

  - Add the egg yolk and pulse to combine. Gradually add cold water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together.

  - Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface, shape it into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Prepare the Filling:

  - In a medium saucepan, combine the figs, sugar, lemon juice, cornstarch, and vanilla extract. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and the figs are softened, about 10-15 minutes. Let cool.

Assemble the Tart:

  - Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). On a floured surface, roll out the dough to fit a 9-inch tart pan. Gently press the dough into the pan and trim any excess.

  - Pour the fig filling into the prepared crust and spread it evenly.

Bake:

  - Bake the tart in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.

Cool and Serve:

  - Allow the tart to cool completely before removing it from the pan. Dust with powdered sugar and garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired.

Enjoy this delightful Tarta de Higo as a sweet end to any meal or a special treat for a gathering!

Nutritional Values:

All-Purpose Flour:

   - Calories: 455

   - Protein: 13 grams

   - Carbohydrates: 95 grams

   - Fat: 1 gram

   - Fiber: 3 grams

Benefits:

   - Provides energy through complex carbohydrates.

   - Contains small amounts of essential nutrients like iron and B vitamins.

Granulated Sugar:

   - Calories: 49

   - Carbohydrates: 13 grams

Benefits:

   - Adds sweetness and flavor to recipes.

   - Used in moderation, it can be part of a balanced diet. Excessive consumption can contribute to health issues, so it’s best used sparingly.

Unsalted Butter:

   - Calories: 102

   - Fat: 12 grams

   - Saturated Fat: 7 grams

   - Cholesterol: 31 milligrams

Benefits:

   - Adds richness and flavor to baked goods.

   - Contains fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E, and K.

Egg Yolk:

   - Calories: 55

   - Protein: 3 grams

   - Fat: 4.5 grams

   - Cholesterol: 184 milligrams

Benefits:

   - Rich in vitamins A, D, E, and K.

   - Provides protein and healthy fats.

Filling Ingredients:

Fresh Figs:

   - Calories: 74

   - Protein: 0.8 grams

   - Carbohydrates: 19 grams

   - Fiber: 2.9 grams

   - Fat: 0.3 grams

Benefits:

   - High in dietary fiber, which supports digestive health.

   - Rich in antioxidants, vitamins (such as A and K), and minerals (such as potassium and magnesium).

Natural source of sugars for energy.

Granulated Sugar:

   - Calories: 49

   - Carbohydrates: 13 grams

Benefits:

   - Adds sweetness and flavor to recipes.

   - As mentioned earlier, it's best consumed in moderation.

Lemon Juice:

   - Calories: 4

   - Carbohydrates: 1 gram

   - Vitamin C: 7 milligrams

Benefits:

   - High in vitamin C, which supports the immune system and skin health.

   - Adds a fresh, tangy flavor to recipes.

Cornstarch:

   - Calories: 30

   - Carbohydrates: 7 grams

Benefits:

   - Used as a thickening agent in recipes.

   - Generally considered safe and does not provide significant nutritional benefits.

Vanilla Extract:

   - Calories: ~12

   - Carbohydrates: ~0.5 grams

Benefits:

   - Adds flavor to dishes.

   - Contains small amounts of antioxidants and may have calming effects.

Garnish (Optional):

Powdered Sugar:

   - Calories: 30

   - Carbohydrates: 8 grams

Benefits:

   - Adds a decorative touch and sweetness to dishes.

   - Similar to granulated sugar, it should be used sparingly.

Fresh Mint Leaves:

   - Calories: 1

   - Carbohydrates: 0.3 grams

Benefits:

   - Provides a refreshing flavor.

   - Contains antioxidants and can aid digestion.

These ingredients combine to create a dessert that is not only delicious but also offers various nutritional benefits when consumed in moderation.