There is something undeniably sensuous and appealing about figs, and it’s good to know that they are also rich in iron and calcium. Here they are paired with vanilla, a traditional ingredient of romantic deserts, and flavorful sherry to make a rich, creamy finale to the Valentine dinner.

Simple to make:

INGREDIENTS

1/2 pound dried figs
2 cups cream sherry (or more as needed)
1 whole vanilla bean, split lengthwise

1. Place figs and split vanilla bean in a saucepan and cover with sherry.

2. Bring to a boil and reduce to a slow simmer. Simmer figs 30 to 40 minutes, adding extra sherry if the figs absorb all of the liquid, until soft and tender to the touch.

3. Serve hot or cold, alone or over vanilla frozen yogurt or ice cream.