Almond coated goat cheese frisee and Belgian endive salad is a unique dish that combines the tangy flavor of goat cheese with the nuttiness of almond flakes. This is blended perfectly with the slightly bitter taste of frisee and Belgian endive. The result is a salad that is not only healthy but bursting with flavor as well.
The Ingredients
To make almond coated goat cheese frisee and Belgian endive salad, you need the following ingredients:
- Goat Cheese: Six-ounce
- Almond Flakes: One cup
- Frisee: One head
- Belgian Endive: Two heads
- Cherry Tomatoes: A handful
- Olive oil: Four tablespoons
- Balsamic Vinegar: Two tablespoons
- Salt: One teaspoon
- Pepper: One teaspoon
The Making
To make this dish, follow these steps:
Step 1: Coat the Goat Cheese
Start by coating the goat cheese in almond flakes. To do this, cut the goat cheese into small cubes, about 1-inch thick. In a small bowl, add the almond flakes and roll the cheese cubes in the flakes until fully coated.
Step 2: Roast the Goat Cheese
Next, roast the goat cheese by heating a skillet over medium-high heat. Add two tablespoons of olive oil to the skillet and then add the coated goat cheese cubes. Cook for about two minutes on each side or until the almond flakes turn golden brown.
Step 3: Prep the Salad
While the goat cheese is roasting, chop the frisee and Belgian endive into small pieces. Cut the cherry tomatoes in half and set them aside.
Step 4: Prepare the Dressing
In a small bowl, mix the remaining two tablespoons of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper together.
Step 5: Assemble the Salad
Now it's time to assemble the salad. Start by placing the chopped frisee and Belgian endive in a large salad bowl. Add the cherry tomatoes on top of the greens. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss lightly.
Step 6: Add the Goat Cheese
Finally, add the almond coated goat cheese cubes to the salad. Serve immediately and enjoy!
The Benefits
There are several health benefits to eating almond coated goat cheese frisee and Belgian endive salad. The main benefit is the abundance of nutrients found in these ingredients. Here are some of the benefits of each ingredient:
Goat Cheese
Goat cheese is an excellent source of protein and contains less fat than cow's milk cheese. It's rich in vitamins and minerals like calcium and vitamin A, which are essential for healthy bones and tissue growth.
Almonds
Almonds are high in healthy fats and fiber, which can help lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease. They are also rich in vitamin E, magnesium, and potassium, which are all vital nutrients for overall health.
Frisee
Frisee is a type of chicory that is low in calories, high in fiber, and packed with nutrients. It's rich in vitamin C and iron, which are both essential for a healthy immune system and proper blood flow.
Belgian Endive
Belgian endive is also low in calories and high in fiber, making it an excellent food for weight loss. It's rich in vitamins A and C, which are essential for healthy skin and eyesight. It also contains calcium, which is vital for strong bones.
The Conclusion
In conclusion, almond coated goat cheese frisee and Belgian endive salad is a unique and healthy dish that's perfect for a light lunch or dinner. It's bursting with flavor and packed with nutrients that can help improve overall health. So, next time you're looking for a healthy and delicious meal, give this recipe a try!
Almond Coated Goat Cheese Frisee and Belgian Endive Salad: Tips and Tricks
If you're looking for a salad recipe that's both healthy and flavorful, then almond coated goat cheese frisee and Belgian endive salad is the perfect choice. This salad is a delightful combination of crisp greens, nuts, fruits, and creamy goat cheese. It's not only easy to make but also a perfect appetizer or side dish for any dinner party or family meal. Here are some useful tips and tricks to make an almond coated goat cheese frisee and Belgian endive salad that your guests will enjoy:
Ingredients
The success of this salad recipe depends on the quality of the ingredients used. Therefore, it's essential to choose fresh, high-quality ingredients for the salad. When selecting the greens, look for tender frisee and Belgian endive heads that have no yellow or brown spots. Similarly, choose fresh seasonal fruits, such as figs, oranges, and pomegranates, that are sweet and bursting with flavor. For the coating, use fine-quality goat cheese and almonds that are freshly roasted and finely chopped.
Preparation
Before making the salad, make sure to prepare all the ingredients in advance. Wash and dry the greens thoroughly, tear them into bite-size pieces, and store them in a salad bowl. Cut the fruits into small pieces and arrange them on top of the greens. Roast the almonds in the oven or on the stovetop and let them cool for a few minutes before crushing them into tiny pieces. Then, shape the goat cheese into small balls and roll them in the crushed almonds. Once all your ingredients are prepped, you're ready to assemble your salad.
Assembly
To make an almond coated goat cheese frisee and Belgian endive salad, first, scoop the goat cheese balls onto the salad, and then drizzle the salad with a balsamic vinaigrette. This will bring out the flavor of the fruits and give the salad a tangy kick. Make sure to coat the salad right before serving so that the greens stay crisp and the goat cheese balls retain their shape. If you prefer, you can add some chopped fresh herbs, such as basil, mint, or thyme, to give the salad an extra burst of flavor.
Variations
The recipe for this salad can be modified according to personal taste or dietary restrictions. For example, if you're vegan, you can substitute the goat cheese with plant-based cheese or tofu. You can also add other ingredients, such as chopped walnuts, pecans, or hazelnuts, for a different taste and texture. Similarly, you can vary the fruit toppings by using persimmons, peaches, or strawberries, depending on what's in season.
Storage
If you need to store the salad, make sure to keep the greens and fruits separate from the goat cheese balls and the roasted almonds. Store the greens and fruits in a sealed container in the refrigerator, and the almonds and goat cheese in another container. When it's time to serve the salad, coat the goat cheese balls one more time with the crushed almonds before placing them onto the salad.
Serving Suggestions
Almond coated goat cheese frisee and Belgian endive salad is a perfect starter for any dinner party or a light lunch on a hot summer day. The salad goes well with grilled meats, seafood, or any roasted vegetable dish. You can also serve the salad with a glass of white wine or sparkling water to complement the fresh flavors.
In conclusion, almond coated goat cheese frisee and Belgian endive salad is an easy, healthy, and delicious salad recipe that you can prepare in no time. With a few simple tips and tricks, you can make a salad that's perfect for any occasion. So, give this salad recipe a try, and let your taste buds be the judge!