This recipe will definitely have everyone asking for seconds! I’ve served it for guests several times and they always ask for the recipe. Stilton is an extra-tasty type of blue cheese that comes from England. If you can’t find it at your grocery store, you can use any high quality blue cheese as a substitute.
Nutritional Information
Based on 6 servings: 378 calories; 15g protein; 21g carbohydrates; 25g fat; 40mg cholesterol; 449mg sodium; 4g fiber.
The walnuts provide a good source of vegetarian protein, as well as omega 3 fatty acids which have been shown to reduce bad LDL cholesterol while providing additional health benefits, such as improved brain function.
In addition, the cherries have among the highest levels of disease-fighting antioxidants when compared to other fruits. Antioxidants fight free radicals which can cause wrinkles and health problems. This means they will help you to keep looking young!
Makes 6 servings as a main course
12 servings as a side dish
12 servings as a side dish
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon tamari
- 2 teaspoons molasses
- freshly ground black pepper
- salt
- cayenne pepper
- 1 cup walnut halves
- 1/2 apple juice
- 1/2 balsamic vinegar
- 3/4 cup dried cherries
- 1 teaspoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 9 ounces of mixed full flavored salad greens such as arugula or frisee
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup Stilton cheese, crumbled
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
- To make the walnuts, add the tamari, molasses and a dash each of salt, black pepper and cayenne pepper to a bowl and stir until blended. Add the nuts and toss thoroughly to coat. Place the nuts on a baking sheet or broiler pan and roast for 10 minutes, or until brown. Remove from the oven and allow to cool.
- To make the salad dressing, bring the the apple juice and vinegar to a boil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Remove saucepan from the burner. Place cherries in a small bowl and pour the juice mixture over them. Allow them to soak for 30 minutes.
- Strain the juice from the berries and put back in the saucepan. Bring to a boil and then lower to a simmer. Cook for 15 minutes, or until juice has been reduced to 1/4 cup. Transfer juice to a bowl and stir in the olive oil. Allow to cool.
- Combine the greens, walnuts, red onion, Stilton and marinated cherries in a serving bowl. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste. Whisk salad dressing and then drizzle over the salad. Toss ingredients together and serve.
Suggested Side Dishes:
From the December 2003 issue of O Magazine
This salad is delightful to look at and even more delightful to eat! Yum! The blend of flavors can’t be beat!