Indulge in a classic French bistro experience with this delectable Warm Goat Cheese Salad. This delightful dish combines creamy goat cheese atop crisp, toasted English muffins with a medley of fresh greens. The result is an exquisite blend of flavors and textures that you'll want to savor year-round. Elevate your salad game with a homemade champagne honey vinaigrette and a sprinkle of toasted walnuts. Enjoy this simple yet luxurious salad that brings together cheese, bread, and dressing in perfect harmony.
Ingredients
🥖 2 English muffins or toasted baguette slices or croutons
🧀 4 slices goat cheese
🥗 2 cups mixed greens (romaine lettuce, arugula, frisée)
🥓 Optional: 4 slices pancetta or prosciutto
🌰 1/4 cup walnuts
🧅 1 shallot, minced
🌿 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped
🫒 1/4 cup olives, chopped (optional)
🍯 1 tablespoon honey
🥄 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
🍾 3 tablespoons champagne vinegar
🫒 1/4 cup olive oil
🧂 Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1- Prepare the Vinaigrette:
- In a small bowl, combine the minced shallot, chopped fresh thyme, and optional olives.
- Add the Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed.
- Slowly whisk in the champagne vinegar, followed by the olive oil, creating a nice emulsion. Set aside.
2- Toast the Walnuts:
- Preheat a small pan over medium heat. Add the walnuts and toast them lightly until they are golden brown and fragrant.
- Remove from heat and set aside.
3- Prepare the Bread:
- Slice the English muffins in half and lightly drizzle each half with olive oil.
- Place a slice of goat cheese on each piece of muffin.
4- Broil the Goat Cheese Bread:
- Place the English muffins with goat cheese under a broiler until the cheese is bubbly and just starting to brown.
- Keep a close eye to avoid burning.
5- Assemble the Salad:
- In a large bowl, toss the mixed greens with half of the vinaigrette until lightly coated.
- Divide the greens onto serving plates.
6- Add the Toppings:
- Place the toasted English muffin halves on top of the greens.
- Sprinkle the toasted walnuts and optional pancetta or prosciutto slices over the salad.
7- Finishing Touch:
- Drizzle the remaining vinaigrette over the salad and season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
8- Serve:
- Enjoy the salad immediately while the goat cheese is warm.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 2
Equipment: Broiler, small pan, whisk, large bowl
Cooking Tips:
- For a richer flavor, consider roasting the nuts longer, but take care not to burn them.
- If you prefer a milder cheese, Brie or Camembert can be used as alternatives to goat cheese.
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YouTube channel - Bruno Albouze: https://www.youtube.com/@BrunoAlbouze