Sweet, savory valentine bites

Family Features

Whether you’re hosting a festive Valentine’s Day party, or entertaining just for two, these recipes give you some sweet and savory choices that will set the mood for romance.

Scrumptious bites start with simple, flavorful ingredients — golden Calimyrna and dark-purple Mission figs from California and Jarlsberg cheese.

Sweet, mouth-watering figs are not only packed with great taste, but they’re also full of fiber and essential nutrients, making them as good for you as they are good to eat.

The versatile taste and texture of Jarlsberg cheese is ideal for these appetizers. Jarlsberg’s mild, nutty-sweet flavor and buttery creaminess makes it a perfect partner to figs and, along with its excellent melting properties, adaptable to many sweet or savory dishes.

You can combine both ingredients in one easy sure-to-please appetizer: Make a slit in a fig and stuff with a piece of Jarlsberg. Wrap with partially cooked bacon and heat at 400 degrees just until bacon is crispy and cheese begins to melt.

Get more sweet and savory recipes at www.ValleyFig.com and www.JarlsbergUSA.com.