Crab Appetizers (Savory Cheese Cookies)

If you've been following my culinary adventures for a while, you probably know how much I love seafood. There's a French word "gourmande" that merely translates to "greedy" and I think it accurately sums up my personality when it comes to les fruits de mer (seafood). Thus it was fitting that at the Asian market this week I bought way too many crabs (again)! 

Lulu's grand-uncle, who also enjoys crab, came to visit us, so I made a few crab appetizers for him. At first, I didn't know how I was going to present the crab, but I finally settled on savory "cookies" flavored with Dubliner cheese. A bit of cottage cheese serves as the "glue" for the whole appetizer, and the depression in each cookie is perfect for a spoonful of crab meat. 

Herb and Pecorino Cheese Crackers

Despite the name, these treats more closely resemble a savory shortbread cookie than a cracker. They are buttery, crumbly and absolutely delicious.

Regardless of what you call them, they are packed with flavor. Using a melon baller, I  created a small cavity in the center of each cracker, which I filled with a savory pecorino basil pesto.

Pecorino, rosemary and thyme are not subtle ingredients, so serve this with a mild, creamy cheese at your next dinner party.

Poached Figs in Puff Pastry

Our garden is very abundant with figs this season. I gathered a full basket of large brown Turkey figs; they're re fairly wide and about 3 inches long. I love their flavor; they have a copper-colored skin, pinkish pulp and very few seeds. They are simply delicious and perfect for baking.

I poached them first in heavy syrup and wrapped them in puff pastry. It's a pretty easy dessert to make but sure to wow your guests.