Balsamic Grilled Cherry, Blueberry, Goat Cheese, and Candied Hazelnut Salad

The Balsamic Grilled Cherry, Blueberry, Goat Cheese, and Candied Hazelnut Salad is a delightful dish perfect for summer gatherings and picnics. This salad combines the sweetness of grilled cherries with fresh blueberries and creamy goat cheese, topped off with crunchy candied hazelnuts. It’s a unique blend of flavors and textures that will impress your guests at any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious salad in no time.
• Flavorful Combination: The mix of grilled cherries, blueberries, and goat cheese creates a refreshing taste explosion.
• Versatile Ingredients: Perfect as a side dish or a light lunch, this salad adapts well to your meal planning.
• Nutritious and Healthy: Packed with antioxidants from the fruits and healthy fats from hazelnuts, this salad is good for you too!
• Eye-Catching Presentation: The vibrant colors make it an appealing addition to any table setting.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare the Balsamic Grilled Cherry, Blueberry, Goat Cheese, and Candied Hazelnut Salad, you’ll need some essential tools.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grilling pan
• Baking sheet
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Grilling pan: Provides an even cooking surface for grilling cherries, enhancing their flavor.
• Baking sheet: Ideal for candying hazelnuts without making a mess in your kitchen.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients effectively to ensure every bite is flavorful.
• Spatula: Helps turn the cherries on the grill evenly for perfect tenderness.

Ingredients

To make the Balsamic Grilled Cherry, Blueberry, Goat Cheese, and Candied Hazelnut Salad, gather the following ingredients:

For the Candied Hazelnuts

• 3 tablespoon brown sugar
• 3 tablespoons hot water
• 1 cup shelled hazelnuts

For the Salad

• 8-10 cups mixed salad greens
• 2 cups cherries (pitted and halved)
• 2 tablespoons Newman’s Own Lite Balsamic Dressing
• 1 cup blueberries
• 4 ounces crumbled goat cheese
• Additional Newman’s Own Lite Balsamic Dressing for the salad

How to Make Balsamic Grilled Cherry, Blueberry, Goat Cheese, and Candied Hazelnut Salad

Step 1: Candy the Hazelnuts

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar and hot water until dissolved.
3. Add the hazelnuts to the mixture and toss until well coated.
4. Pour the mixture onto a large baking sheet lined with a Silpat baking mat or parchment paper.
5. Bake until the hazelnuts are crisp, about 12-15 minutes.
6. Remove from oven and let cool before breaking apart and roughly chopping them.

Step 2: Grill the Cherries

1. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
2. Place pitted cherries in a medium bowl.
3. Add 2 tablespoons of balsamic dressing to the cherries and toss well.
4. Place cherries on a grill pan; grill until tender for about 5 minutes.
5. Use a spatula to turn them occasionally while cooking.

Step 3: Assemble Your Salad

1. In a large bowl, combine mixed salad greens, grilled cherries, blueberries, crumbled goat cheese, and candied hazelnuts.
2. Drizzle with additional balsamic dressing before serving.
3. Serve immediately for optimal freshness!

How to Serve Balsamic Grilled Cherry, Blueberry, Goat Cheese, and Candied Hazelnut Salad

This vibrant salad is a delightful mix of flavors and textures that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a light lunch, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your salad experience.

As a Main Dish

• Serve the salad as a standalone meal topped with grilled chicken or turkey for added protein.

With Grilled Proteins

• Pair the salad with grilled lamb or beef skewers to complement the sweet and tangy flavors of the cherries.

On a Picnic

• Pack the salad in individual containers for an easy, refreshing picnic option. It holds up well and tastes great chilled.

As a Side Salad

• Offer this salad alongside roasted vegetables or hearty grain dishes like quinoa or farro to create a balanced meal.

For Entertaining

• Present the salad in a large bowl at gatherings with friends. Guests can help themselves, making it perfect for potlucks.

How to Perfect Balsamic Grilled Cherry, Blueberry, Goat Cheese, and Candied Hazelnut Salad

To ensure your salad shines, consider these helpful tips for preparation and presentation.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh cherries and blueberries will enhance the flavor and texture of your salad.
• Grill cherries evenly: Make sure to toss the cherries well in dressing before grilling to achieve that perfect caramelization.
• Customize toppings: Feel free to add other nuts like almonds or pecans for additional crunch and flavor profiles.
• Adjust sweetness: If you prefer your salad less sweet, reduce the amount of brown sugar used for candied hazelnuts.
• Make ahead: Prepare candied hazelnuts and grill cherries in advance to save time on busy days. Just assemble before serving!

Best Side Dishes for Balsamic Grilled Cherry, Blueberry, Goat Cheese, and Candied Hazelnut Salad

Pairing side dishes with this salad can create a more satisfying meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy chicken marinated in herbs complements the sweetness of the salad beautifully.
2. Roasted Vegetable Medley: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized adds depth to your meal.
3. Quinoa Pilaf: Fluffy quinoa cooked with spices makes for a nutty side that pairs perfectly with fruity salads.
4. Garlic Breadsticks: Warm breadsticks brushed with garlic butter provide a comforting touch alongside fresh greens.
5. Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a classic Italian appetizer that matches well with the salad’s theme.
6. Herbed Couscous: Light and fluffy couscous seasoned with fresh herbs enhances the overall meal without overpowering it.
7. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers filled with rice or beans make for an inviting side dish option.
8. Zucchini Fritters: Crispy zucchini fritters bring texture and flavor while being light enough not to overshadow the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Balsamic Grilled Cherry, Blueberry, Goat Cheese, and Candied Hazelnut Salad, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your salad turns out perfectly.

• Overcooking the hazelnuts: Keep an eye on the hazelnuts while baking. They can burn quickly. Bake until they are just crisp and fragrant.
• Not pitting cherries properly: Ensure that you fully pit your cherries as unpitted ones can ruin the texture of your salad and pose a risk while eating.
• Skipping the marination step: Marinating the cherries in balsamic dressing enhances their flavor. Don’t skip this vital step for a flavorful salad.
• Using stale greens: Always choose fresh salad greens. Wilted or old greens can make your salad unappetizing and less enjoyable.
• Forgetting to adjust seasoning: Taste your salad before serving. You may need to add more balsamic dressing or seasoning to suit your palate.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 2 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Balsamic Grilled Cherry, Blueberry, Goat Cheese, and Candied Hazelnut Salad

• It is not recommended to freeze this salad due to the texture changes in fruits and greens.

Reheating Balsamic Grilled Cherry, Blueberry, Goat Cheese, and Candied Hazelnut Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (10-15 seconds) until warm but not hot.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of water or balsamic dressing and gently warm over low heat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Balsamic Grilled Cherry, Blueberry, Goat Cheese, and Candied Hazelnut Salad.

Can I substitute other fruits in this salad?

Yes! Feel free to use seasonal fruits like peaches or strawberries for a different flavor profile.

How do I make this salad vegan?

To make it vegan, simply replace goat cheese with a plant-based cheese alternative.

What can I serve with Balsamic Grilled Cherry, Blueberry, Goat Cheese, and Candied Hazelnut Salad?

This salad pairs well with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.

Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?

You can prep individual components ahead of time but assemble just before serving for best flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

The Balsamic Grilled Cherry, Blueberry, Goat Cheese, and Candied Hazelnut Salad is a delightful blend of flavors perfect for summer gatherings or as a refreshing side dish. Its versatility allows you to customize it with your favorite ingredients. Give it a try; you won’t be disappointed!