Gouda Cheese Salad

Gouda Cheese Salad Recipe from New England - Romaine, Smoked Gouda, Strawberries, Ground Pecans, and More!

Region / culture: New England | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Gouda Cheese Salad is a delightful and refreshing dish that combines the creamy and nutty flavors of Gouda cheese with the sweetness of strawberries and the crunch of toasted pecans. This salad is perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for a dinner party.

History

Gouda Cheese Salad is a modern twist on the classic cheese and fruit salad. Gouda cheese, a Dutch cheese known for its rich and creamy texture, pairs perfectly with the juicy strawberries and crunchy pecans in this salad. The addition of a strawberry vinaigrette adds a sweet and tangy flavor that ties all the ingredients together.

Ingredients

6 cups romaine, spinach, or radicchio greens
8 oz (227 g) sliced smoked gouda
1.5 cups sliced strawberries
0.5 cup ready-made toasted ground pecans, cut into long strips

Strawberry Vinaigrette

0.25 cup seedless strawberry jam
0.75 cup extra virgin olive oil
0.75 cup red wine or strawberry vinegar

How to prepare

Arrange the greens on four salad plates.
Alternate the cheese wedges and strawberries on top of the greens.
Use 2 oz (57 g) of cheese and 0.5 cup of strawberries per plate.
Divide the dressing evenly between the four plates and garnish each salad with 2 tbsp of toasted ground pecans.

Variations

Substitute the strawberries with raspberries or blueberries for a different flavor profile.
Use walnuts or almonds instead of pecans for a different texture.
Add some cooked quinoa or farro to make the salad more filling.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to use a good quality Gouda cheese for this salad, as the flavor of the cheese will be a key component of the dish.

- Toasting the pecans before adding them to the salad will enhance their flavor and crunchiness.

- Make sure to evenly distribute the cheese and strawberries on each plate for a balanced and visually appealing presentation.

Serving Suggestions

Gouda Cheese Salad can be served as a light lunch or as a side dish for grilled chicken or fish. It pairs well with a glass of white wine or a fruity iced tea.

Cooking Techniques

Toasting the pecans adds a depth of flavor to the salad.

- Be sure to evenly distribute the cheese and strawberries on each plate for a balanced presentation.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use any type of greens you prefer, such as spinach or arugula.

- Any type of nut can be used in place of pecans, such as walnuts or almonds.

Make Ahead Tips

The dressing for Gouda Cheese Salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. The salad can be assembled just before serving to ensure the greens stay fresh and crisp.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the cheese and strawberries in a visually appealing pattern on top of the greens for an elegant presentation. Garnish with fresh herbs or edible flowers for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Gouda Cheese Salad pairs well with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay. It also goes well with a light and fruity beer, such as a wheat beer or a cider.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Gouda Cheese Salad is best enjoyed fresh, but any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. The salad may become wilted if stored for longer periods of time.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Gouda Cheese Salad contains approximately 400 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Gouda Cheese Salad contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Gouda Cheese Salad contains approximately 30 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Gouda Cheese Salad contains approximately 10 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Gouda Cheese Salad is a good source of calcium, vitamin C, and vitamin K.

Alergens

Gouda Cheese Salad contains dairy and nuts.

Summary

Gouda Cheese Salad is a nutritious and delicious dish that is rich in fats, proteins, and vitamins. It is a great option for those looking for a satisfying and flavorful salad.

Summary

Gouda Cheese Salad is a delicious and nutritious dish that combines the creamy texture of Gouda cheese with the sweetness of strawberries and the crunch of toasted pecans. This salad is perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for a dinner party.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time is a special one. It was a warm summer day and I was visiting my dear friend, Mrs. Jenkins, in her cozy little cottage by the sea. Mrs. Jenkins was known for her delicious salads, and on that particular day, she had prepared a Gouda Cheese Salad that was simply out of this world.

As I took my first bite, the flavors exploded in my mouth - the creamy Gouda cheese, the tangy vinaigrette dressing, the crunchy walnuts, and the sweet dried cranberries. I couldn't help but ask Mrs. Jenkins for the recipe. She smiled and handed me a worn piece of paper with the ingredients and instructions neatly written in her elegant script.

I was overjoyed to have the chance to learn how to make this delectable salad, and Mrs. Jenkins graciously allowed me to watch as she prepared it. She explained each step in detail, sharing little tips and tricks that she had picked up over the years. I took notes furiously, not wanting to miss a single detail.

After enjoying the salad together, Mrs. Jenkins sent me on my way with a container full of leftovers and a heart full of gratitude. From that day on, the Gouda Cheese Salad became a staple in my own kitchen, a dish that I would make for family gatherings, picnics, and special occasions.

Over the years, I have made a few tweaks to Mrs. Jenkins' original recipe, adding my own personal touch to make it truly my own. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, who have all raved about its deliciousness. It has become a signature dish of mine, one that I am proud to serve to anyone who walks through my door.

To make the Gouda Cheese Salad, you will need the following ingredients:

- 1 head of romaine lettuce, washed and chopped

- 1 cup of cubed Gouda cheese

- 1/2 cup of dried cranberries

- 1/4 cup of chopped walnuts

- 1/4 cup of olive oil

- 2 tablespoons of red wine vinegar

- 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard

- Salt and pepper to taste

To prepare the salad, start by combining the lettuce, Gouda cheese, dried cranberries, and walnuts in a large mixing bowl. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat. Serve immediately and enjoy the burst of flavors in every bite.

I hope you enjoy making and eating this Gouda Cheese Salad as much as I do. It is a recipe that holds a special place in my heart, a reminder of the day I learned it from my dear friend Mrs. Jenkins. The taste of the salad always brings back fond memories of that warm summer day by the sea, and I am grateful for the gift of this delicious dish that I can share with others.