Ingredients with Measurements:
- 4 cups mixed greens
- 1/2 cup crumbled Cashel Blue cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup sliced red onion
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette
Special equipment needed:
- None
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, Cashel Blue cheese, chopped walnuts, dried cranberries, and sliced red onion.
2. Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad and toss to coat.
3. Serve immediately.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: None
Temperature:
- Serve at room temperature.
Serving size:
- This recipe serves 4.
Nutritional information:
- Calories per serving: 250
- Total fat: 20g
- Saturated fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
- Sodium: 220mg
- Total carbohydrates: 15g
- Dietary fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 9g
- Protein: 7g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Mixed greens: Arugula, spinach, or romaine lettuce can be used instead.
- Cashel Blue cheese: Roquefort, Gorgonzola, or Stilton can be used instead.
- Walnuts: Pecans or almonds can be used instead.
- Dried cranberries: Raisins or chopped dates can be used instead.
- Red onion: Shallots or green onions can be used instead.
- Balsamic vinaigrette: Red wine vinaigrette or honey mustard dressing can be used instead.
Variations:
- Add sliced apples or pears for a fruity twist.
- Top with grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal.
- Substitute the balsamic vinaigrette with a lemon vinaigrette for a brighter flavor.
Tips and tricks:
- Toast the walnuts for added flavor and crunch.
- Make the salad ahead of time, but wait to add the dressing until just before serving.
- Use a mix of sweet and savory ingredients for a well-balanced salad.
Storage instructions:
- Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating instructions:
- None
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the salad on a large platter for a family-style meal.
- Arrange the ingredients in a circular pattern for a visually appealing presentation.
Garnishes:
- None
Pairings:
- Serve with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
Suggested side dishes:
- Grilled vegetables, such as zucchini or asparagus, make a great side dish for this salad.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the salad is too dry, add more dressing.
- If the salad is too salty, reduce the amount of cheese or nuts.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to wash all produce before using.
- Store any leftover salad in the refrigerator.
Food history:
- Cashel Blue cheese is a semi-soft, blue-veined cheese that is made in County Tipperary, Ireland.
Flavor profiles:
- This salad is a combination of sweet and savory flavors, with the tangy Cashel Blue cheese balancing out the sweetness of the dried 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: Irish