Vanilla and Licorice Steeped Figs

Bring the licorice root, vanilla powder, honey, and water to a boil. Remove from the stove and allow to steep for 10 minutes. Strain off the licorice. Toss the figs in the liquid and lift out with a slotted spoon. Let figs drain on a plate or sheet of parchment paper.

Toss the greens in a large salad bowl with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper to taste. Scatter the sliced figs and olives over top and serve.

Preheat oven to 375°F.

To make the tart dough: Cream together butter and sugar until smooth and slightly fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla and mix well. Add the flour and mix just until dough comes together. Knead lightly and form into a ball. Chill dough briefly while you mix up the filling.

To make the mascarpone filling: Combine the cheese and sugar in a medium bowl. Add the egg, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Mix until thoroughly combined. Set aside.

On a floured surface, roll out the tart dough to a circle that’s slightly larger than your 9-inch tart pan. Place the dough inside the pan and press into place on the sides and bottom. Trim away any excess dough. Prick all over with the tines of a fork. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. It is done when firm.

Remove baked tart crust from the oven and pour in the mascarpone filling mixture. Return tart to the oven for 8 minutes or until the filling is firm. Remove from the oven and let cool on a rack.

Place the figs in a circular arrangement over the tart filling, starting at the outside and leaving room in the center for the blackberries. Once the fruit is on the tart, heat the jam until melted and lightly brush it over the fruit. Chill the tart until ready to serve.

Right before serving, garnish tart with mint leaves and a sprinkling of slivered almonds.