Marinated Cheese-Topped Salad
A lovely vinaigrette coats this green salad that's tossed with tomatoes, olives and marinated cream cheese croutons. I freeze the cream cheese for 45 minutes or so to firm it up. This makes it easier to cut into cubes.
A lovely vinaigrette coats this green salad that's tossed with tomatoes, olives and marinated cream cheese croutons. I freeze the cream cheese for 45 minutes or so to firm it up. This makes it easier to cut into cubes.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/8 teaspoon pepper
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 large garlic clove minced
- 2 shallots thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh oregano
- 2 cups fresh arugula or baby spinach
- 2 tablespoons minced fresh italian parsley
- 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese chilled
- 4 cups torn romaine
- 1-1/2 cups grape tomatoes halved
- 1/2 cup medium pitted green olives
- Carbohydrate 2.42060617505737 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 4.56452625840481 g
- Fiber 0.240976691935729 g
- Protein 0.349065685123476 g
- Saturated Fat 0.637038352821647 g
- Serving Size 1 1 servings. (20g)
- Sodium 1.5847009670262 mg
- Sugar 2.17962948312164 g
- Trans Fat 0.134098336159547 g
- Calories 50 calories
Step-by-step
- For dressing, in a small bowl, combine the first eight ingredients.
- Cut cream cheese into 1/2-inch cubes; toss with half of the dressing.
- Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine the romaine, arugula, tomatoes, shallots and olives.
- Drizzle with remaining dressing; toss to coat.
- Top with marinated cream cheese.
- Serve immediately.
My Go-To Summer Salad: A Simple, Flavorful Delight
As a busy working mom, I don't have a lot of time for elaborate cooking. But that doesn't mean I'm willing to sacrifice delicious, healthy meals! This marinated cheese-topped salad is my go-to recipe when I need something quick, satisfying, and bursting with fresh flavors. It's perfect for a light lunch, a side dish at a barbecue, or even a simple yet elegant dinner. The best part? It's incredibly easy to make, even on my busiest days.
The secret to this salad’s amazing taste lies in the simple yet flavorful vinaigrette. The combination of olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, garlic, oregano, and a touch of salt and pepper creates a bright, tangy dressing that perfectly complements the creamy marinated cheese and crisp greens. I love using a mix of arugula and romaine lettuce for a delightful contrast in textures and flavors. The addition of juicy grape tomatoes and briny olives adds a burst of freshness and a pop of color, making this salad visually appealing as well. And then there's the star of the show: the marinated cream cheese "croutons." Freezing the cream cheese beforehand makes it easy to cut into perfect cubes, which then soak up the delicious dressing and become incredibly flavorful and satisfying. It is a delightful textural contrast to the rest of the salad.
This recipe is so versatile, too! I often adapt it to what I have on hand. Sometimes I swap out the arugula for spinach or add other vegetables like cucumbers or bell peppers. I've even been known to experiment with different cheeses, though the cream cheese remains my personal favorite. The beauty of this salad is in its simplicity – a few fresh ingredients, a simple dressing, and a few minutes of preparation are all you need for a healthy and delicious meal that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters. It's truly a testament to the fact that sometimes, the best meals are the simplest ones.
Beyond the sheer convenience and deliciousness, this salad also holds a special place in my heart because it reminds me of simpler times. I remember my grandmother making a similar salad, albeit with slightly different ingredients. It’s a recipe that has been passed down through generations, each family member adding their own little twist and making it their own. It is a legacy that I am happy to continue and adapt for my own family and lifestyle. It's more than just a salad; it's a taste of home, a reminder of family traditions, and a symbol of the simple joys of life.
If you are looking for a healthy, flavorful, and easy-to-make salad, look no further. Give this recipe a try, and I am confident that it will become a staple in your kitchen, too. Its versatility makes it perfect for any season, any occasion, and any mood. It's the kind of salad that can easily be adapted and personalized to suit your own taste preferences. Whether you are a seasoned cook or a complete beginner, you will find this recipe to be straightforward and enjoyable to prepare. So go ahead, try it and enjoy! You won't be disappointed. It’s a perfect example of how a simple meal can be packed with flavor and satisfaction.
