Introduction

Goat cheese salad is a sophisticated and flavorful dish that combines creamy goat cheese with fresh, crisp vegetables and a tangy dressing. Perfect as a light lunch or an elegant side dish, this salad offers a wonderful balance of textures and flavors. With its easy preparation and delicious results, this goat cheese salad is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Discover how to make this delectable and satisfying salad that’s perfect for any occasion!

Ingredients

  • 4 cups mixed salad greens (such as arugula, spinach, and baby kale)
  • 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cucumber, sliced
  • 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup toasted walnuts or pecans
  • 1/4 cup dried cranberries or raisins (optional)
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil or parsley, chopped (optional)

For the Dressing:

  • 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Salad Ingredients

  • Wash Greens: Rinse and dry the mixed salad greens thoroughly.
  • Chop Vegetables: Halve the cherry tomatoes, slice the cucumber, and thinly slice the red onion.
  • Toast Nuts: If not already toasted, place the walnuts or pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat, and toast until golden and fragrant. Let cool.

2. Make the Dressing

  • Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.

3. Assemble the Salad

  • Combine Ingredients: In a large salad bowl, toss the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
  • Add Goat Cheese and Nuts: Gently fold in the crumbled goat cheese, toasted walnuts (or pecans), and dried cranberries (if using).

4. Dress the Salad

  • Add Dressing: Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving. Toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.

5. Serve

  • Enjoy: Serve the salad immediately, garnished with additional fresh basil or parsley if desired.

Tips for Perfect Goat Cheese Salad

  • Creamy Goat Cheese: Use fresh goat cheese for the best texture and flavor. Crumbled or sliced, it should blend nicely with the salad ingredients.
  • Customize Your Salad: Feel free to add other ingredients such as roasted beets, avocado, or sliced apples for extra flavor and variety.
  • Dress Just Before Serving: To keep the salad crisp, add the dressing right before serving.

Conclusion

Goat cheese salad is a delicious and elegant dish that combines creamy goat cheese with fresh vegetables and a tangy dressing. Perfect for a light meal or as a side dish, this salad is both satisfying and easy to prepare. Enjoy the delightful blend of flavors and textures in every bite of this refreshing salad. Try this recipe today and experience the delicious taste of goat cheese salad!