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.
Ingredients
- Salad: 120 g mixed salad greens (e.g., arugula, baby spinach, frisée), 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 23 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 Notes
For extra crunch, add roasted pumpkin seeds or pistachios. Substitute figs or dried apricots for dates if desired. 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 Recipe FAQ
- → What type of cheese is used in this salad?
Creamy goat cheese is used, either crumbled or sliced, to add a tangy richness that complements the sweet and spicy elements.
- → How is the spiced honey dressing prepared?
The dressing is gently warmed by combining honey with ground cinnamon, cumin, coriander, and optional chili flakes, then mixed with lemon juice and olive oil for a balanced, aromatic finish.
- → Can the dates be substituted?
Yes, dried figs or apricots can be used as alternatives to Medjool dates to maintain sweetness and texture variety.
- → What nuts are included, and can they be replaced?
Toasted walnuts provide crunch and earthiness, but roasted pumpkin seeds or pistachios can be used for added texture and flavor variation.
- → Is this salad suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, all main ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for gluten-conscious diners.
- → What wine pairs well with this dish?
A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light rosé pairs beautifully, enhancing the salad's fresh and spiced notes.