Ingredients with Measurements:
- 4 cups mixed greens
- 1 cup Montevecchia cheese, crumbled
- 1 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
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 Montevecchia cheese, chopped walnuts, thinly sliced red onion, and dried cranberries to the bowl.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
5. Serve immediately.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: None
Temperature:
- Serve at room temperature
Serving size:
- 4 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories per serving: 350
- Fat: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Protein: 11g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Substitute feta or goat cheese for the Montevecchia cheese.
- Substitute pecans or almonds for the walnuts.
- Substitute sliced apple or pear for the dried cranberries.
Variations:
- Add sliced grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal.
- Add sliced avocado for a creamy texture.
- Substitute arugula or spinach for the mixed greens.
Tips and tricks:
- Toast the walnuts in a dry skillet for added flavor.
- Make the dressing in advance and store in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Use a mandoline to thinly slice the red onion for even slices.
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 in a large salad bowl or on individual plates.
- Garnish with additional walnuts or dried cranberries.
Garnishes:
- Additional walnuts or dried cranberries
Pairings:
- Serve with a glass of white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.
Suggested side dishes:
- Garlic bread or crusty bread
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the salad is too dry, add more dressing.
- If the salad is too salty, add more mixed greens.
Food safety advice:
- Wash all produce thoroughly before using.
- Store any leftover salad in the refrigerator.
Food history:
- Montevecchia cheese is a semi-soft cheese made from cow's milk in the Lombardy region of Italy.
Flavor profiles:
- The Montevecchia cheese adds a nutty and slightly sweet flavor to the salad, while the walnuts add a crunchy texture.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve as a light lunch or as a side dish to a main course.
Related Categories
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Region: Italian