SPINACH SALAD WITH GOAT CHEESE PITA CROUTONS

Spinach Salad with Goat Cheese Pita Croutons image

Yield Serves 4

Number Of Ingredients 9

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For the croutons
a 7-inch pita pocket, halved crosswise and separated to form 4 semicircles
2 1/2 ounces (about 1/3 cup) soft milk goat cheese such as Montrachet
1/4 cup walnuts, minced
1 tablespoon white-wine vinegar
2 teaspoons Dijon-style mustard
6 tablespoons olive oil (preferably extra-virgin)
3/4 pound spinach (about 1 bunch), coarse stems discarded and the leaves washed well and spun dry
1 pint cherry tomatoes, quartered

Steps:

Make the croutons:
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Spread the rough sides of the pita evenly with the goat cheese, season them with salt and pepper, and sprinkle the walnuts evenly over the cheese, pressing them in gently. Cut the pita into 1-inch pieces and bake the croutons, on a baking sheet in the middle of the oven for 15 to 25 minutes, or until they are golden.
In a large salad bowl whisk together the vinegar, the mustard, and salt and pepper to taste, add the oil in a stream, whisking, and whisk the dressing until it is emulsified. Add the spinach, the tomatoes, and the croutons, and toss the salad well.