French fig: how to choose, store and cook this star fruit of late summer?
Seasonal fruit Rich in fiber Sweet & floral flavor Sweet & savory idea
The French fig marks the return of the sweet end of summer. Its juicy flesh, its purple or green skin, its honeyed notes… We enjoy it by hand, in salads, on a board or in creative recipes. Rich in fiber, antioxidants and minerals, it pleases gourmets and athletes alike, for a healthy and delicious pleasure. Ready to (re)discover this exceptional fruit? Follow the guide!
Season & varieties
In France, the fig arrives from the end of July and shines until the first days of October. It reigns supreme in the markets of the South, but is also found in the North, thanks to small local producers. The most common varieties: the Violette de Solliès (dark skin, bright red flesh), the Blanche (green skin, milder taste) and the Noire de Caromb (more compact, sweet). The peak season is clearly between August and September: this is when the French fig is at its tastiest, sweetest and most fragrant.
Tip: The riper the fig, the harder it is to store. Buy in small quantities to enjoy the best!
How to choose the right fig
Observation and touch
- Choose heavy, supple but not soft figs. They must be intact, without spots or cracks.
- The skin may show natural cracks, especially on the Violette de Solliès, but never any trace of mold.
- When touched, the fig should give slightly under pressure, a sign of good ripeness.
Fragrance and color
- The scent should be sweet, intense, floral . If you can't smell anything, the fig is not ripe.
- Purple figs display almost black highlights when ripe, while white figs remain light green, sometimes yellowed by the sun.
Little anti-disappointment tip
- Avoid fruit that is too firm or too soft: it risks being either acidic or spoiled.
- A drop of nectar at the base of the fruit is generally a sign of great ripeness... and sweetness!
Tips for keeping your figs fresh
Short-term storage
- Figs do not keep well after waiting: consume them quickly , ideally within twenty-four to forty-eight hours of purchase.
- Keep it at room temperature if you eat it during the day, otherwise place it in the refrigerator (fruit compartment).
Keep in the refrigerator
- Place the figs in an airtight container or wrapped in paper towels to prevent them from getting crushed or moldy.
- Do not wash them before storage: wait until the last moment to avoid accelerating their deterioration.
Freeze or process
- You can freeze figs whole or cut, or prepare them into homemade jam, compote or chutney.
- For quick smoothies, keep a few chopped figs in the freezer and blend them with a suitable blender !
Ideas for cooking and serving figs 🥗
To bite into : plain, with or without the skin, to fully enjoy the freshness and fiber.
In a summer salad : combine figs with mozzarella, arugula, walnuts, a drizzle of honey, and a twist of pepper. Perfect for a light meal, or even, why not, a summer barbecue !
Oven-toasted : Cut the fig, add fresh goat cheese and a little thyme, and bake for a few minutes. Ideal as a starter or on an aperitif board!
For a light dessert : Place a few wedges on Greek yogurt, add a touch of honey and some seeds for a healthy snack.
Smoothie version : Blend fresh figs with plant-based milk, banana, or peach and enjoy a shot of energy. Discover other recipes in our Recipes of the Week section.
In a pan : fry the quarters in a little butter, deglaze with balsamic vinegar. Serve with duck breast or grilled poultry, or to enhance a warm salad!
Budget, purchases & good addresses
French figs remain an affordable fruit in peak season, even if their price increases slightly outside the South. At markets, a punnet generally costs between three and six euros per kilo. To buy locally, look for small producers or AMAPs (Community-supported agriculture organizations), where the freshness and flavor are often incomparable.
For a unique experience, consider grilled figs on the barbecue: they pair well with a touch of honey or a pinch of fleur de sel. If you're looking to equip your kitchen for healthy recipes, explore our comparison of the best air fryers or discover our selection of smoothie blenders to mix figs in a flash!
Looking for something different? Find our best seasonal inspirations and recipes in Neary's Recipes of the Week section.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you eat the skin of a fig?
Yes, the skin of the French fig is edible, thin, and rich in fiber. If it seems thick to you, or if you prefer, you can remove it, but you lose some of the flavor and nutrients.
How to prevent figs from going moldy too quickly?
Buy them ripe but not damaged, keep them cool in an airtight container, and don't wash them until the last minute. If you have too many, consider making jam or freezing them.
Is fig compatible with a healthy or exercise diet?
Absolutely! It's rich in fiber, potassium, and antioxidants, while being moderate in calories. It's perfect as a snack or a healthy dessert, and it promotes recovery after exercise.
Any original ideas for cooking salted figs?
Pair it with goat cheese, cured ham, or pan-fry it to accompany grilled meat. On a white pizza or in a veggie sandwich, it works wonders!
Can you cook figs in the air fryer?
Yes, you can air fry sliced figs to enhance their sweetness, but be careful not to dry them out too much. Check out our tips in our Air Fryer guide .
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