Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1/2 pound Caciotta di Brugnato cheese, cubed
- 6 cups baby spinach leaves
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup pine nuts
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special equipment needed: None
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the baby spinach leaves, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, honey, and extra-virgin olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
4. Add the cubed Caciotta di Brugnato cheese and pine nuts to the salad and toss gently.
5. Serve immediately.
15 minutes
Temperature: Room temperature
Serving size: 4
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 26g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Protein: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Caciotta di Brugnato cheese can be substituted with any mild, semi-soft cheese such as Fontina or Gouda.
- Baby spinach leaves can be substituted with any leafy green such as arugula or mixed greens.
- Pine nuts can be substituted with any other nut such as walnuts or almonds.
Variations:
- Add sliced strawberries or dried cranberries for a touch of sweetness.
- Substitute the balsamic vinegar dressing with a lemon vinaigrette for a brighter flavor.
- Top the salad with grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal.
Tips and tricks:
- Toast the pine nuts in a dry pan over medium heat for a few minutes to enhance their flavor.
- Cube the cheese into small pieces to ensure that every bite has a taste of the cheese.
- Dress the salad just before serving to prevent the spinach leaves from wilting.
Storage instructions:
- This salad is best served immediately and should not be stored for later.
Reheating instructions:
- This salad is not meant to be reheated.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the salad in a large bowl or on individual plates.
- Garnish with additional pine nuts or shaved Parmesan cheese.
Garnishes:
- Additional pine nuts or shaved Parmesan cheese.
Pairings:
- This salad pairs well with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
Suggested side dishes:
- Serve with a side of crusty bread or garlic bread.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the salad is too dry, add more dressing or a drizzle of olive oil.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to wash the spinach leaves thoroughly before using.
Food history:
- Caciotta di Brugnato is a semi-soft cheese that originated in the Liguria region of Italy.
Flavor profiles:
- This salad has a balance of sweet and tangy flavors from the balsamic vinegar and honey dressing, and a nutty flavor from the pine nuts.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve as a light lunch or as a side dish to a larger meal.
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Region: Italian