Fig and Olive Tapenade

I found this recipe on All Recipes. Goat cheese may also be used in place of the cream cheese. Serve with slices of French bread or crackers.

• Ready In: 25 mins
• Serves: 6-8

Ingredients

• 1  cup  chopped dried fig (I use Mission Figs)
• 1⁄2 cup water
• 1  tablespoon olive oil
• 2  tablespoons  balsamic vinegar
• 2  teaspoons  finely chopped fresh rosemary
• 2  teaspoons  finely chopped fresh thyme
• 1⁄4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 2⁄3 cup  chopped kalamata olive
• 2  minced garlic cloves
•  salt and pepper
• 1⁄3 cup  chopped toasted walnuts
• 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese

Directions

1. Combine figs and water in a saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a boil, and cook until tender, and liquid has reduced. Remove from heat, and stir in the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, rosemary, thyme, and cayenne. Add olives and garlic, and mix well. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover, and refrigerate overnight to allow flavors to blend.
2. Unwrap cream cheese block, and place on a serving platter. Spoon tapenade over cheese, and sprinkle with walnuts. Serve with slices of French bread or crackers.
3. Note: To toast walnuts, heat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Place nuts in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for 10 minutes, or until lightly browned and fragrant.