Cranberry, Goat Cheese, and Walnut Stacks

5m
Prep Time

1m
Cook Time

6m
Ready In

"This is a delicious and easy salad/starter course to prepare. Perfect for a special dinner or entertaining. Personally, I prefer to serve this over a bed of baby greens. Five (5) minute prep if that."

Original is 4 servings

Metric US

I've Tried It

Nutritional

Serving Size: 1 (424.1 g)
Calories 956.8
Total Fat - 37.9 g
Saturated Fat - 6.3 g
Cholesterol - 11.9 mg
Sodium - 2361.1 mg
Total Carbohydrate - 145.2 g
Dietary Fiber - 6.8 g
Sugars - 117.6 g
Protein - 13.5 g
Calcium - 276 mg
Iron - 2 mg
Vitamin C - 21.7 mg
Thiamin - 0.2 mg

Step 1

Cranberry ... First, I like the cranberry to be well chilled; it just makes it easier to slice. Then, using a can opener, open each end; and using the lid from one end, simply push out the cranberry onto a cutting board or plate. I usually makes 4 stacks of 3 thin slices per serving. So, you will need 12 slices. Go slowly, and if you use a warm knife (dipped in hot water); it makes this much easier. Then, lay the slices on a plate or pan lined with 2 paper towels. Top with 2 more towels, and press down lightly. This will dry the slices and make them easier to work with. Just a couple of minutes, then remove the paper towels.

Step 2

Walnuts ... I usually buy mine already fine chopped; but, you can buy whole walnuts too, and chop them yourselves. Either way is the same result. You want a fairly fine chop. Then, add the walnuts to a small flat dish.

Step 3

Cheese and Nuts ... Spread a spoonful of the cheese on one side, of 8 beet slices. Then, add the slice, cheese side down, in the ground nuts; and, press to coat.

Step 4

Plate ... Add 1 cup of your greens to a platter or individual salad plate; and, add the first beet slice (cheese and nut side up). Add a second slice, cheese side up once again; and, the final slice (no cheese). Top with the diced orange segments.

Step 5

Dressing ... Mix the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, orange juice, and thyme to a small measuring cup; mix, season with salt and pepper - and set to the side.

Step 6

Serve and ENJOY! ... Drizzle the dressing over the cranberry stack and greens; then, garnish with extra nuts and fresh mint. A great starter or salad. Perfect for entertaining - especially during the holidays.