Mesclun and Cherry Salad with Warm Goat Cheese

A sophisticated salad featuring warm almond-crusted goat cheese rounds served atop a fresh mix of baby greens, sweet cherries, and fennel, dressed with a tangy tarragon-lemon vinaigrette.

6 servings
35 min

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons roasted almond oil or olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped shallot
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh tarragon
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • ¾ teaspoon finely grated lemon peel
  • ¾ cup sliced almonds
  • 1 whole large egg
  • 1 tablespoon water
  • 1 log soft fresh goat cheese
  • 6 cups mixed baby greens or baby spinach
  • 1 cup fresh Bing cherries
  • ½ cup fresh fennel bulb

Cooking Instructions

  1. 1.

    Preheat oven to 400°F. Whisk first 5 ingredients in small bowl. Season dressing generously with salt and pepper.

    5 min

  2. 2.

    Spread almonds on plate. Whisk egg and 1 tablespoon water in small bowl; sprinkle with freshly ground black pepper. Turn goat cheese rounds in egg mixture, then coat with sliced almonds, covering all sides. Place on rimmed baking sheet. DO AHEAD: Dressing and goat cheese rounds can be made 4 hours ahead. Cover separately and chill. Bring dressing to room temperature and whisk before using.

    15 min

  3. 3.

    Bake goat cheese rounds until cheese is warm but not melted, about 10 minutes.

    10 min

  4. 4.

    Combine greens, cherries, and fennel in large bowl. Add dressing and toss to coat. Divide salad among 6 plates. Place 1 cheese round on each plate and serve.

    5 min

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