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Cherry Plum Goat Cheese Salad Recipe

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4.1 from 3 reviews

This Cherry Plum Goat Cheese Salad is a vibrant and flavorful summer salad featuring a perfect balance of crunchy baby arugula, sweet cherry plums and tomatoes, creamy goat cheese, and nutty toasted pine nuts. Easy to make in just 20 minutes, it’s ideal for summer cookouts, dinner parties, or a quick nutritious side dish. The simple balsamic vinaigrette brings all the elements together beautifully, making this salad an elevated yet effortless dish that has garnered glowing reviews for its fresh, bright flavors.

Ingredients

Summer Salad

  • 1/2 cup dry quinoa
  • 1/4 cup pine nuts
  • 4 cups baby arugula
  • 6-8 cherry plums (halved or sliced)
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes (halved)
  • 4-6 ounces goat cheese
  • Fresh basil (to taste, garnish)

Simple Balsamic Vinaigrette

  • 1 Tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon minced garlic
  • 1 Tablespoon honey (or agave syrup)
  • 2 1/2 Tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Cook the quinoa: Rinse and cook the quinoa according to package instructions or use your preferred method to ensure fluffy, tender quinoa.
  2. Toast the pine nuts: In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the pine nuts for about 5-6 minutes until they are fragrant and lightly browned, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
  3. Assemble the salad: In a large salad bowl, combine baby arugula, halved or sliced cherry plums, halved cherry tomatoes, crumbled goat cheese, cooked quinoa, toasted pine nuts, and freshly chopped basil.
  4. Prepare the vinaigrette: Whisk or shake together Dijon mustard, minced garlic, honey (or agave syrup), balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and salt until well combined and emulsified.
  5. Toss and serve: Pour the vinaigrette over the salad and gently toss everything together to evenly coat all ingredients. Serve immediately and enjoy the fresh, vibrant flavors.

Notes

  • This recipe makes 2 large salads or 4 side salads, perfect for sharing or meal prep.
  • To toast pine nuts evenly, keep stirring frequently and watch closely to avoid burning.
  • You can substitute honey with agave syrup for a vegan-friendly option.
  • For added texture, consider adding a handful of toasted walnuts or sliced almonds if desired.
  • Salad tastes best served fresh but can be refrigerated for up to 1 day; toss before serving.

Find it online: https://recipesbyliza.com/cherry-plum-goat-cheese-salad-recipe/