This roasted pepper and goat cheese salad is a vibrant and delicious dish that combines the smoky sweetness of roasted peppers with the tangy, creamy flavor of goat cheese. Enhanced with fresh herbs, dried tomatoes, and a drizzle of balsamic vinegar cream, this salad is a delightful starter or side dish that pairs perfectly with a variety of main courses. It’s easy to prepare and adds a burst of color and flavor to any meal.
Ingredients
- Peppers: 6 medium-sized (use a mix of red, yellow, or any sweet peppers for a colorful presentation)
- Vegetable Oil: 2 tablespoons
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Green Onion: 2-3 stalks, finely chopped
- Dried Tomatoes: 1/4 cup (about 30 g), chopped
- Goat Cheese: 150 g (5.3 oz), cubed
- Green Basil: A handful of fresh leaves
- Sesame Seeds: 1 tablespoon
- Balsamic Vinegar Cream: For drizzling (optional, for added sweetness and acidity)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Roast the Peppers
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F) to ensure it’s hot enough to roast the peppers evenly.
- Prepare the Peppers: Place the peppers on a baking tray and drizzle with 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil. Use your hands or a brush to coat the peppers evenly with the oil.
- Roast the Peppers: Roast the peppers in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, turning them halfway through cooking. The peppers should become soft and the skins should char slightly for a smoky flavor.
- Cool and Peel: Remove the peppers from the oven and cover them with a kitchen towel. Let them cool slightly; this will make it easier to peel off the skins. Once cooled, peel the skins, remove the seeds, and slice the peppers into thin strips.
2. Prepare the Salad
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the roasted pepper strips, minced garlic, chopped green onion, and chopped dried tomatoes. The garlic adds a pungent kick, while the dried tomatoes bring a concentrated burst of flavor.
- Add Goat Cheese: Gently fold in the cubed goat cheese, being careful not to crumble it too much. The goat cheese provides a creamy, tangy contrast to the sweet peppers and savory ingredients.
3. Assemble and Serve
- Transfer to Serving Plate: Transfer the salad mixture to a serving plate, arranging it nicely for presentation.
- Garnish: Sprinkle the salad with 1 tablespoon of sesame seeds for a subtle nutty flavor and extra texture.
- Add Fresh Basil: Garnish with a handful of fresh green basil leaves, tearing them over the salad for a burst of herbaceous freshness.
- Drizzle with Balsamic Vinegar Cream: For an extra touch of sweetness and acidity, drizzle the salad with balsamic vinegar cream. This step is optional but highly recommended for a well-balanced flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
- Starter or Side Dish: Serve this salad as a light starter or a vibrant side dish. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread, making it a great accompaniment to a variety of meals.
- With Grilled Meats: The smoky and tangy flavors of this salad complement grilled meats, such as chicken, steak, or lamb, adding a fresh and zesty contrast.
- As Part of a Larger Spread: Include this salad as part of a larger Mediterranean spread, alongside dishes like hummus, olives, or a simple pasta dish for a complete meal.
Nutritional Information
- Serving Size: 1 portion (based on 4 servings)
- Calories: 160 kcal per serving
- Total Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg
- Sodium: 200 mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Dietary Fiber: 3 g
- Sugars: 6 g
- Protein: 6 g
This roasted pepper and goat cheese salad is not only delicious but also a healthy addition to your meal. It’s packed with vitamins and minerals from the fresh vegetables, healthy fats from the cheese, and antioxidants from the peppers.
Pro Tips:
- Perfect Roast: For best results, ensure the peppers are evenly coated with oil and roasted until the skins are nicely charred. This enhances their natural sweetness and makes peeling easier.
- Cheese Alternatives: If you prefer a milder cheese, substitute the goat cheese with feta or mozzarella.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Bring to room temperature before serving to enjoy the best flavors.
Enjoy this vibrant, flavorful roasted pepper and goat cheese salad as a delightful and versatile addition to your culinary repertoire. It’s a simple yet elegant dish that brings together the best of fresh ingredients and bold flavors!
