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 has quickly become a favorite in my home, especially for gatherings where I want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients
- Salad: 120 g mixed salad greens (e.g., arugula, baby spinach, frisé) 150 g goat cheese, crumbled or sliced 8 Medjool dates, pitted and chopped 40 g toasted walnuts, roughly chopped 1 small red onion, thinly sliced 1 small apple, thinly sliced (optional)
- Spiced Honey Dressing: 3 tbsp honey 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon 1/4 tsp ground cumin 1/4 tsp ground coriander 1/8 tsp chili flakes (optional, for mild heat) 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil 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 My family loves sharing this fresh salad during weekend lunches; it always brings smiles and compliments to the table.
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
Allergen Information
Contains tree nuts (walnuts) and milk (goat cheese). Please check all product labels for hidden allergens if you have sensitivities.
Save This goat cheese salad is a perfect balance of sweet and savory that suits any occasion.
Recipe Questions
- → What type of greens work best for this salad?
Mixed greens like arugula, baby spinach, and frisée complement the rich goat cheese and sweet dates, offering a balanced combination of textures and flavors.
- → Can I prepare the spiced honey dressing in advance?
Yes, the dressing can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to two days. Warm gently before serving to restore its aroma.
- → Are there suitable substitutions for the dates?
Figs or dried apricots can be used as alternatives, providing a similar sweetness and chewy texture to the salad.
- → How can I add extra crunch to the salad?
Roasted pumpkin seeds or pistachios are excellent additions that enhance texture and add nutty flavor.
- → What beverage pairs well with this salad?
A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light rosé will complement the salad's fresh and spiced characteristics beautifully.