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Delicious Dish

Sides & Salads

Little Gem Salad with Warm Goat Cheese Croutes and Garlic Recipe

February 3, 2022|By Carolyn Cohen
Little Gem Salad with Warm Goat Cheese Croutes and Garlic - sides & salads recipe by Carolyn Cohen

baguette croutons

Ingredients

  • For the Warm Goat Cheese Croutes
  • 1 small log of goat cheese
  • 2 egg whites
  • ½ cup panko or breadcrumbs
  • 2-3 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • For the Baguette Croutons
  • 8 slices of baguette, about ½ inch thick
  • ¼ cup olive oil
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • ½ tsp kosher salt
  • For the Dressing
  • 4 tbsp white wine vinegar or champagne
  • vinegar
  • 2 tsp honey or sugar
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • Plenty of freshly ground pepper
  • 1 egg yolk
  • ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 4-6 baby romaine clusters, torn apart
  • Flaked sea salt

Instructions

  1. 1

    For the Warm Goat Cheese Croutes: Cut the goat cheese into ½-inch disks. Beat the egg whites until frothy. Dip each slice of goat cheese into the egg white and then coat in panko or bread crumbs. Place on a parchment-lined plate and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes.

  2. 2

    Make the Baguette Croutons: Preheat oven to 400°F. Arrange the baguette slices on a parchment-lined baking pan. Mix olive oil, salt and minced garlic in a bowl. Brush the oil mixture on the bread slices. Bake for about 5 minutes, or until the edges are brown.

  3. 3

    In the meantime, make the Dressing: In a blender or food processor, blend together the vinegar, honey or sugar, salt, mustard, pepper and egg yolk until smooth. With the motor running, slowly pour in the oil until fully incorporated.

  4. 4

    Place the greens in a large bowl.

  5. 5

    For the Warm Goat Cheese Croutes: In a large fry pan, add the oil and butter, heat until almost smoking. Add the chilled goat cheese and fry until golden on the first side and repeat on the second side, about 2 minutes on each side.

  6. 6

    Dress the leaves with some of the dressing (you may not need it all). Taste and add more dressing if needed.

  7. 7

    Arrange the leaves on a platter or individual plates. Top with the Goat Cheese Croutes. Sprinkle with flaked sea salt. Serve the Baguette Croutons on the side.

  8. 8

    Serve immediately. Serves 4

Tips & Storage

How to Store
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Most sides keep well for 3-4 days. Dress salads just before serving to keep them crisp.
Make Ahead Tip
Many sides can be prepped in advance. Chop vegetables and make dressings ahead of time, then assemble just before serving.
Serving Tip
This pairs well with a variety of main dishes. Try it alongside grilled chicken, fish, or a hearty soup for a complete meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Little Gem Salad with Warm Goat Cheese Croutes and Garlic?

This Little Gem Salad with Warm Goat Cheese Croutes and Garlic recipe by Carolyn Cohen includes step-by-step instructions that are easy to follow. You'll need 22 ingredients and the recipe is designed for home cooks of all skill levels.

What goes well with this little gem salad with warm goat cheese croutes and garlic?

This recipe pairs well with a variety of dishes. Try it as part of a complete meal with complementary sides, salads, or proteins.