Warm Walnut and Blue Cheese Salad
Indulge in the rich flavors and textures of this Warm Walnut and Blue Cheese Salad, perfect for a light lunch or dinner. This recipe combines the creaminess of blue cheese, the crunch of toasted walnuts, and the sweetness of fresh pears, all atop a bed of mixed greens and finished with a tangy balsamic vinaigrette.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 15-20 minutes
Ingredients:( Servings: 4-6)
- 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, or your choice)
- 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1/4 cup blue cheese, crumbled
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tsp honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
Toast walnuts in a dry pan over medium heat for 3-4 minutes until fragrant. Set aside.
In the same pan, sauté sliced red onion with olive oil for 2-3 minutes until softened.
In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, warm onions, toasted walnuts, and crumbled blue cheese.
Drizzle with the dressing, toss gently, and serve warm. Enjoy this light and flavorful salad!
Tips:
1. Toast the walnuts: Toasting the walnuts brings out their natural oils and enhances their flavor.
2. Use high-quality blue cheese: Choose a strong, pungent blue cheese for the best flavor.
3. Don’t overdress: Dress the salad just before serving to prevent the greens from becoming soggy.
4. Add some crunch: Include some crispy prosciutto or bacon for added texture.
5. Make it a main course: Add some grilled chicken or salmon to make the salad a satisfying main course.
Variations:
1. Pear and Walnut Variations: Replace the pears with apples or persimmons for a different flavor profile.
2. Blue Cheese Alternatives: Use goat cheese, feta, or gorgonzola instead of blue cheese for a different taste.
3. Nutty Options: Substitute almonds, pecans, or hazelnuts for the walnuts.
4. Greens and Herbs: Use arugula, spinach, or kale instead of mixed greens, and add some fresh herbs like parsley or thyme.
5. Fruit and Berry Combinations: Add some dried cranberries, cherries, or apricots to the salad for extra flavor and texture.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: 320-380
Protein: 15-20g
Fat: 24-28g
Saturated Fat: 8-10g
Cholesterol: 20-25mg
. Carbohydrates: 15-20g
. Fiber: 4-5g
Sugar: 10-12g
Sodium: 350-400mg