Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 lb ground pork
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 6 cups baby spinach leaves
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
Special equipment needed:
- Large skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Salad bowl
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine the ground pork, milk, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, cinnamon, cloves, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pork mixture and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through, about 10-12 minutes.
3. Remove the skillet from the heat and let the cretons cool for a few minutes.
4. In a salad bowl, combine the baby spinach leaves, cherry tomatoes, red onion, feta cheese, and walnuts.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
6. Serve the cretons alongside the spinach salad.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 12 minutes
Temperature:
- Medium-high heat
Serving size:
- 4 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories per serving: 435
- Fat: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Protein: 22g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground pork can be substituted with ground beef or ground turkey.
- Baby spinach leaves can be substituted with mixed greens or arugula.
- Cherry tomatoes can be substituted with sliced cucumber or bell pepper.
- Feta cheese can be substituted with goat cheese or blue cheese.
- Walnuts can be substituted with pecans or almonds.
- Balsamic vinegar can be substituted with red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar.
Variations:
- Add sliced avocado to the salad for extra creaminess.
- Use ground beef instead of pork for a different flavor.
- Add dried cranberries or raisins to the salad for a touch of sweetness.
- Top the salad with grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
Tips and tricks:
- Make the cretons ahead of time and reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.
- Toast the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes to bring out their flavor.
- Use a good quality balsamic vinegar for the dressing for the best flavor.
Storage instructions:
- Store the cretons and salad separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat the cretons in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the cretons and salad on separate plates for a more elegant presentation.
- Arrange the salad on a large platter and top with the cretons for a family-style meal.
Garnishes:
- Garnish the salad with fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil.
- Sprinkle some extra feta cheese or walnuts on top for added texture.
Pairings:
- Serve with a crusty baguette or garlic bread for a complete meal.
- Pair with a light-bodied red wine, such as Pinot Noir or Beaujolais.
Suggested side dishes:
- Roasted vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts or carrots, would make a great side dish.
- A simple pasta dish, such as spaghetti with olive oil and garlic, would complement the flavors of the salad and cretons.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the cretons are too dry, add a splash of milk or water to the skillet and stir until the mixture is moistened.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the ground pork to an internal temperature of 160°F to ensure it is safe to eat.
Food history:
- Cretons is a traditional French-Canadian pork spread that is typically served on toast or crackers.
Flavor profiles:
- The cretons are savory and slightly sweet, with hints of cinnamon and cloves.
- The salad is fresh and bright, with a tangy balsamic dressing and creamy feta cheese.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the cretons and salad as a light lunch or dinner.
- This dish would also make a great appetizer for a party or gathering.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
Course Type: N/A
Dietary: N/A
Ingredient: N/A
Meal type: N/A
Occassion: N/A
Region: N/A