Imagine a salad that transforms an ordinary meal into a gourmet experience - one that combines crisp, fresh greens with luxuriously warm, creamy goat cheese that practically melts in your mouth. This French-inspired Warm Goat Cheese Salad is not just a dish; it's a culinary journey that elevates simple ingredients into an extraordinary dining sensation. Whether you're looking to impress dinner guests or treat yourself to a restaurant-quality meal at home, this recipe promises to tantalize your taste buds and transport you straight to the charming countryside of France.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: French
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups mixed greens
- 1/2 cup walnuts, toasted
- 4 oz goat cheese, sliced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the ingredients: Wash mixed greens thoroughly and dry using a salad spinner or paper towels. Toast walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant, about 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Slice the goat cheese into 4 equal rounds, approximately 1/2 inch thick. Place cheese rounds on a plate and refrigerate briefly to help maintain shape during cooking.
- Prepare the vinaigrette by whisking olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until emulsified and well combined.
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place goat cheese rounds on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake goat cheese for 5-6 minutes until slightly golden and warm but not completely melted. The cheese should be soft and creamy.
- Arrange mixed greens on serving plates, distributing them evenly.
- Drizzle prepared vinaigrette over the greens, tossing gently to coat leaves lightly.
- Place a warm goat cheese round on top of each salad portion.
- Sprinkle toasted walnuts over the salads, adding a crunchy texture.
- Serve immediately while goat cheese is still warm, allowing the cheese to slightly melt over the greens.
Tips
- Choose high-quality, fresh goat cheese for the best flavor and texture. Look for a creamy, soft variety that will melt beautifully.
- When toasting walnuts, watch them carefully to prevent burning. They can go from perfectly toasted to burnt in seconds.
- Use a salad spinner or pat greens dry thoroughly to ensure the vinaigrette clings to the leaves instead of pooling at the bottom.
- Serve the salad immediately after adding the warm goat cheese to enjoy the contrast between the crisp greens and the soft, warm cheese.
- For a variation, you can bread the goat cheese rounds with breadcrumbs before baking for an extra crispy exterior.
- If you don't have balsamic vinegar, white wine vinegar or champagne vinegar can make excellent substitutes.
- For a more substantial meal, consider adding grilled chicken or salmon to the salad.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 25mg
