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Close-up of a fresh Goat Cheese Cranberry Walnut Salad in a wooden bowl, featuring lettuce, dried cranberries, walnuts, and crumbled goat cheese.
Maryam

Harvest Goat Cheese Cranberry Walnut Salad

This vibrant Harvest Goat Cheese Cranberry Walnut Salad brings together a delightful blend of textures and flavors. Crisp greens, creamy goat cheese, sweet dried cranberries, and crunchy toasted walnuts are tossed in a tangy-sweet balsamic vinaigrette for a refreshing and satisfying meal.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer, Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 380
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 8 oz Mixed Greens such as spring mix or baby spinach
  • 4 oz Goat Cheese crumbled
  • 1/2 cup Dried Cranberries
  • 1/2 cup Walnuts halves or chopped
  • 1/4 cup Red Onion thinly sliced or finely diced
  • 1/2 cup Cucumber diced or sliced
For the Balsamic Vinaigrette
  • 1/4 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil
  • 2 tbsp Balsamic Vinegar
  • 1 tsp Dijon Mustard
  • 1 tsp Honey or maple syrup
  • 1/4 tsp Salt or to taste
  • 1/8 tsp Black Pepper freshly ground, or to taste

Equipment

  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • Small Bowl or Jar with Lid
  • Whisk
  • Skillet (for toasting walnuts)

Method
 

Prepare the Walnuts
  1. Heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Add the walnuts and toast for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant and lightly browned. Be careful not to burn them. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
Make the Balsamic Vinaigrette
  1. In a small bowl or a jar with a lid, combine the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and black pepper. Whisk vigorously or shake the jar until the dressing is well emulsified. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
Assemble the Salad
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the mixed greens, dried cranberries, toasted walnuts, thinly sliced red onion, and diced cucumber. Gently toss to combine.
  2. Just before serving, drizzle the desired amount of balsamic vinaigrette over the salad. Add the crumbled goat cheese and toss gently again to distribute.
  3. Serve immediately as a light main course or a refreshing side dish.

Notes

For an added protein boost, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas. Apple or pear slices can also be a delightful addition for extra fruitiness. Store leftover dressing separately from the salad to prevent the greens from wilting. The dressing can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.