Indulge your taste buds with a delightful twist on a classic French dish that will leave you craving more! Our Salad with Herbed Baked Goat Cheese and Vinaigrette combines the creamy richness of warm goat cheese with the freshness of mixed greens, creating a perfect harmony of flavors and textures. This dish is not only a feast for the senses but also a quick and easy recipe that can be whipped up in just 35 minutes! Whether you're hosting a dinner party or looking for a satisfying lunch, this salad is sure to impress. Ready to elevate your salad game? Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: French
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 oz goat cheese
- 1 tbsp mixed herbs (thyme, rosemary, parsley)
- 4 cups mixed salad greens
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1/4 cup cranberries
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a small baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a small bowl, mix the mixed herbs (thyme, rosemary, and parsley) with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Carefully slice the goat cheese into 4 equal rounds, about 1/2 inch thick. If the cheese is too soft, chill it in the freezer for 10 minutes to make slicing easier.
- Coat each goat cheese round thoroughly in the herb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the herbs adhere to the cheese.
- Place the herbed goat cheese rounds on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is slightly softened and warm but not completely melted.
- While the cheese is baking, prepare the vinaigrette by whisking together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until well combined.
- In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed salad greens, chopped walnuts, and cranberries.
- Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to coat the greens evenly.
- Divide the dressed salad among 4 plates, placing a warm herbed goat cheese round on top of each salad.
- Serve immediately, allowing the warm cheese to slightly wilt the greens and create a delightful contrast of temperatures and textures.
Tips
- Choose the Right Goat Cheese: For the best flavor, opt for a fresh, creamy goat cheese. If you can find one that’s slightly aged, it will add a deeper taste to your salad.
- Herb Variations: Feel free to experiment with different herbs! Fresh basil or dill can add a unique twist to the flavor profile, so don't hesitate to get creative.
- Chill the Cheese: If your goat cheese is too soft to slice, pop it in the freezer for about 10 minutes. This will firm it up and make cutting easier without compromising its texture.
- Perfect Vinaigrette: Adjust the vinaigrette to your taste by adding a touch of honey for sweetness or a squeeze of lemon for extra brightness.
- Serving Suggestions: For added crunch and flavor, consider toasting the walnuts before adding them to the salad. It enhances their nuttiness and adds a lovely aroma.
- Make it a Meal: To turn this salad into a more filling dish, add grilled chicken or roasted vegetables for a hearty option that’s still light and refreshing.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 313kcal
Carbohydrates: 17g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 42g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 27mg
