Grilled Cherry, Blueberry and Hazelnut Salad

Mixed salad greens topped with balsamic grilled cherries, blueberries, goat cheese, and candied hazelnuts. This fruity and flavorful salad is a must make for summertime.

Yield:
4 servings
Category:
Salads and Dressings
Cuisine:
American

INGREDIENTS:

  • 2 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons hot water
  • 3/4 cup shelled hazelnuts
  • 6-8 cups mixed salad greens
  • 1 1/2 cups cherries, pitted and halved
  • 2 tablespoons dressing - see ingredients below
  • 3/4 cup blueberries
  • 4 ounces sliced/crumbled goat cheese
  • Dressing:
  • 2 tablespoons good quality balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons fruity olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons grape-seed or sunflower oil
  • 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
  • salt and pepper to taste

DIRECTIONS:

  1. First, candy the hazelnuts. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar and hot water. Add the hazelnuts and toss until well coated. Pour mixture onto a large baking sheet that has been lined with parchment paper. Bake until hazelnuts are crisp, about 12-15 minutes. Remove from oven and let cool. Once cooled, break hazelnuts apart. Roughly chop and set aside.
  2. Prepare the dressing by mixing the ingredients in a small jar. Shake well to blend. Preheat saute pan to medium heat. Place cherries in a medium bowl. Add 2 tablespoons of dressing and toss well. Place cherries on pan and saute until tender, about 5 minutes. Use a spatula to turn occasionally while cooking.
  3. In a large bowl, add greens, cherries, blueberries, goat cheese, and candied hazelnuts. Drizzle with additional dressing and serve immediately.

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