Save A vibrant salad featuring creamy goat cheese, sweet dates, crisp greens, and a warm spiced honey dressing—perfect for an elegant starter or a light meal.
This salad quickly became a favorite at my dinner parties because of its unique blend of flavors and effortless preparation.
Ingredients
- Salad: 120 g mixed salad greens (e.g., arugula, baby spinach, frisée)
- Salad: 150 g goat cheese, crumbled or sliced
- Salad: 8 Medjool dates, pitted and chopped
- Salad: 40 g toasted walnuts, roughly chopped
- Salad: 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- Salad: 1 small apple, thinly sliced (optional)
- Spiced Honey Dressing: 3 tbsp honey
- Spiced Honey Dressing: 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- Spiced Honey Dressing: 1/4 tsp ground cumin
- Spiced Honey Dressing: 1/4 tsp ground coriander
- Spiced Honey Dressing: 1/8 tsp chili flakes (optional, for mild heat)
- Spiced Honey Dressing: 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- Spiced Honey Dressing: 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Spiced Honey Dressing: Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a small saucepan over low heat, combine honey, cinnamon, cumin, coriander, and chili flakes (if using). Warm gently for 2–3 minutes, stirring until aromatic. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let cool slightly.
- Step 2:
- Arrange the salad greens on a large platter or individual plates. Scatter the goat cheese, chopped dates, toasted walnuts, red onion, and apple slices (if using) evenly over the greens.
- Step 3:
- Drizzle the warm spiced honey dressing over the salad just before serving.
- Step 4:
- Toss gently to combine, or serve with dressing on the side.
Save This salad is a hit with my family especially during warm evenings when we want something light yet flavorful.
Notes
For extra crunch, add roasted pumpkin seeds or pistachios. Serve with crusty bread for a more substantial meal. Pair with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light rosé.
Required Tools
Small saucepan, Whisk, Salad bowl or serving platter, Knife and cutting board
Nutritional Information
Calories: 320, Total Fat: 17 g, Carbohydrates: 35 g, Protein: 9 g
Save Enjoy this vibrant salad as a delicious start to any meal or a refreshing light lunch.
Cooking Questions
- → What type of cheese is best for this salad?
Soft, creamy goat cheese complements the sweet and spiced flavors well, providing a tangy richness that balances the other ingredients.
- → Can I substitute dates with other dried fruits?
Yes, figs or dried apricots make excellent alternatives and offer a similarly sweet, chewy texture.
- → How do I prepare the spiced honey dressing?
Gently warm honey with cinnamon, cumin, coriander, and optional chili flakes over low heat, then stir in lemon juice and olive oil before seasoning.
- → Are there any nut alternatives for those with allergies?
Toasted pumpkin seeds or pistachios can add crunch instead of walnuts, but always check for potential allergies before serving.
- → What dishes pair well with this salad?
This dish goes well with crusty bread and pairs nicely with light white wines like Sauvignon Blanc or rosé.