Caramelized Onion & Fig Pizza

Name: Caramelized Onion & Fig Pizza
Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 20 servings.
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided; 1 large onion, chopped; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1/4 teaspoon pepper; 1 tube (13.8 ounces) refrigerated pizza crust; 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened; 1 teaspoon minced fresh thyme or 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 cup dried figs (about 6 ounces), chopped; 6 thin slices prosciutto or deli ham, chopped; 1/3 cup pine nuts; 1 cup shredded provolone cheese

This is a sensational variation on traditional pizza. It's creamy, sweet and a little salty, with a buttery crunch from the pine nuts. I like to serve it with mixed baby greens salad and a vinaigrette. —Connie Balbach, Bemidji, Minnesota

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
1 large onion, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1 tube (13.8 ounces) refrigerated pizza crust
1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
1 teaspoon minced fresh thyme or 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
1 cup dried figs (about 6 ounces), chopped
6 thin slices prosciutto or deli ham, chopped
1/3 cup pine nuts
1 cup shredded provolone cheese

Directions

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon oil over medium heat. Add onion; cook and stir until softened. Reduce heat to medium-low; cook 30-35 minutes or until deep golden brown, stirring occasionally. Add garlic and pepper; cook 1 minute longer.
Preheat oven to 425°. Unroll and press dough onto bottom and up sides of a greased 15x10x1-in. baking pan. Bake 7-10 minutes or until golden brown.
In a small bowl, beat cream cheese, thyme and remaining oil until blended. Spread over crust. Top with caramelized onion, figs, prosciutto and pine nuts; sprinkle with cheese. Bake 6-10 minutes longer or until cheese is melted.

To make ahead: This recipe takes minutes to put together when you caramelize the onion the day before.