Ingredients with Measurements:
- 4 cups mixed greens
- 1/2 cup crumbled Bleu d'Aoste cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette
Special equipment needed:
- None
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Wash and dry the mixed greens and place them in a large salad bowl.
2. Add the crumbled Bleu d'Aoste cheese, chopped walnuts, and dried cranberries to the bowl.
3. Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to combine.
4. Serve immediately.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: None
Temperature:
- Serve at room temperature
Serving size:
- This recipe serves 4 people
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Protein: 8g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Mixed greens can be substituted with any leafy greens of your choice.
- Bleu d'Aoste cheese can be substituted with any other blue cheese.
- Walnuts can be substituted with pecans or almonds.
- Dried cranberries can be substituted with raisins or chopped dates.
- Balsamic vinaigrette can be substituted with any other salad dressing of your choice.
Variations:
- Add sliced apples or pears to the salad for a fruity twist.
- Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
- Use honey mustard dressing instead of balsamic vinaigrette for a sweeter flavor.
Tips and tricks:
- Toast the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes to bring out their flavor.
- Crumble the Bleu d'Aoste cheese into small pieces for even distribution throughout the salad.
- Toss the salad gently to avoid crushing the delicate greens.
Storage instructions:
- This salad is best served fresh and should not be stored for more than a few hours.
Reheating instructions:
- N/A
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the salad in a large glass bowl to show off the colorful ingredients.
Garnishes:
- Sprinkle some extra chopped walnuts on top of the salad for added crunch.
Pairings:
- This salad pairs well with a glass of white wine or a light beer.
Suggested side dishes:
- Serve with a side of crusty bread or garlic bread.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the salad is too dry, add more dressing to taste.
Food safety advice:
- Wash all produce thoroughly before using.
Food history:
- Bleu d'Aoste cheese is a French blue cheese that has been made in the Aosta Valley for centuries.
Flavor profiles:
- This salad has a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, with the tangy Bleu d'Aoste cheese complementing the crunchy walnuts and sweet cranberries.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve as a light lunch or as a side dish with dinner.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
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Region: Italian