Name: Spring Greens with Candied Meyer Lemons and Spicy Fried Goat Cheese
Ingredients: 2 pieces Meyer lemons (sliced into 1/4 inch rounds (I prefer organic when eating the rind)); 2 cups sugar; 2 cups water; 2/3 cup seasoned bread crumbs; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes; 1 8-ounce log goat cheese (sliced into 1/2-inch rounds); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 large egg (lightly beaten); 8 cups spring greens; 1 pint grape tomatoes (quartered); 1/2 cup walnuts (toasted); 1/4 cup champagne vinegar; 2 tablespoons honey; 1/2 teaspoon freshly grated ginger; 1 clove garlic (freshly grated); 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon pepper; 1/3 cup olive oil

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The Spring Greens with Candied Meyer Lemons and Spicy Fried Goat Cheese is one of those dishes that transports you to a sun-drenched terrace, even if you’re just whipping it up in your kitchen. I remember the first time I had a salad that featured the sweet tartness of candied lemons paired with the richness of fried goat cheese. It was a warm spring evening, and every bite felt like a celebration of the season. The vibrant greens were like nature’s confetti, and the crispy goat cheese? Pure indulgence. I knew I had to recreate this delightful combination. It was love at first bite, and now, it’s a staple at my spring gatherings.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
60 mins

Prep Time:
0 mins

Cook Time:
0 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
320 kcal

Protein:
8 g

Diet:
Whole30, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
22 g

Tools Used:
Skillet, Frying Pan, Whisk, Peeler, Large Pot, Saucepan, Grater, Chef’s Knife, Mixing Bowl, Wooden Spoon

Why This Spring Greens with Candied Meyer Lemons and Spicy Fried Goat Cheese Works

Fresh and Flavorful Ingredients

One of the things that makes the Spring Greens with Candied Meyer Lemons and Spicy Fried Goat Cheese so special is the array of fresh ingredients. The combination of vibrant spring greens like arugula and spinach brings a crisp texture that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the candied lemons. Each element in this dish shines, from the unexpected crunch of toasted walnuts to the creamy, tangy warmth of the goat cheese.

A Perfect Balance of Sweet and Savory

The balance of flavors is impeccable. The sweetness from the candied Meyer lemons cuts through the richness of the fried goat cheese, creating a delightful contrast. It’s an explosion of taste that dances on your palate. You get a little sweetness from the honey in the dressing, some heat from the red pepper flakes, and a zing from the champagne vinegar. It’s a harmony of flavors that works together flawlessly!

A Visual Feast

Let’s not forget about presentation. The Spring Greens with Candied Meyer Lemons and Spicy Fried Goat Cheese is as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the stomach. The bright lemon slices glisten like jewels atop a bed of greens, each crispy goat cheese round peeking out invitingly. It’s a dish that draws people in, making it the perfect centerpiece for your spring table.

Versatile for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a light lunch, a picnic in the park, or an elegant dinner party, this dish fits the bill. It’s versatile and can easily be scaled up to serve a crowd or made in smaller portions for an intimate gathering. Plus, it’s a great way to impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen!

Healthy Yet Indulgent

Another reason to love this recipe is its healthy profile. You’re loading up on greens, healthy fats from the walnuts, and the zest from the lemons. Yet, with the addition of the fried goat cheese, it feels indulgent. It’s a perfect example of how healthy eating doesn’t have to be boring or bland.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Spring Greens with Candied Meyer Lemons and Spicy Fried Goat Cheese

This dish thrives on fresh, high-quality ingredients that complement each other beautifully. The star of the show is the spring greens, which provide a crisp and refreshing base. The candied Meyer lemons add a sweet and tangy punch, while the spicy fried goat cheese lends a rich creaminess. Together, they create a symphony of flavors that’s perfect for any spring gathering.

2 Meyer lemons, sliced into 1/4 inch rounds (I prefer organic when eating the rind): These beautiful lemons are sweeter and less acidic than regular lemons, making them perfect for candying.
2 cups sugar: Essential for the candying process, sugar will transform the lemon slices into a sweet treat.
2 cups water: Used to dissolve the sugar and create a syrup for candying the lemons.
2/3 cup seasoned bread crumbs: This adds a delicious crunch to the goat cheese.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: A hint of garlic flavor in the crumb coating enhances the overall taste.
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes: These add a subtle heat that balances the sweetness of the lemons.
1 (8-ounce) goat cheese log, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds: The creamy richness of goat cheese is a perfect pairing with the other elements.
2 tablespoons olive oil: Used for frying the goat cheese, adding more richness.
1 large egg, lightly beaten: This helps the breading stick to the goat cheese.
8 cups spring greens: A mix of fresh greens for a flavorful base.
1 pint grape tomatoes, quartered: These provide a juicy burst of flavor.
1/2 cup walnuts, toasted: Nuts add a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
1/4 cup champagne vinegar: This adds acidity and tang to the dressing.
2 tablespoons honey: Sweetness to balance the vinegar in the dressing.
1/2 teaspoon freshly grated ginger: This adds a fresh, spicy note to the dressing.
1 garlic clove, freshly grated: Extra flavor for the dressing.
1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors of all the ingredients.
1/4 teaspoon pepper: A seasoning essential to elevate the dish.
1/3 cup olive oil: This is the base for the dressing, adding richness.

Putting Together Spring Greens with Candied Meyer Lemons and Spicy Fried Goat Cheese

Creating the Spring Greens with Candied Meyer Lemons and Spicy Fried Goat Cheese is a delightful process. You’ll start by candying the lemons, which fills your kitchen with a fragrant aroma. Then, frying the goat cheese rounds creates that irresistible crispy coating. Finally, you’ll assemble everything with a tangy dressing to tie it all together. Let’s dive into the steps!

Begin by carefully removing any large seeds from the Meyer lemon slices. This ensures that every bite is pleasant and free from any unpleasant crunch. It’s a simple step that makes a big difference.
In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, combine the water and sugar and bring to a boil. As the mixture comes to a boil, whisk continuously until the sugar has completely dissolved. The syrup should be clear and bubbly.
Once boiling, gently add the lemon slices into the pot. Reduce the heat to medium-low, so the mixture is just simmering. This slow cooking allows the lemons to become tender and aromatic, typically about 30 minutes.
After about 30 minutes, keep an eye on the lemon peels as they should turn translucent. When this happens, remove the pan from the heat and let the slices cool completely in the syrup. This cooling period helps the lemons absorb even more flavor.
Once cooled, transfer the candied lemon slices to a wire rack to allow them to dry completely. You can save the syrup for future use as it’s a fantastic sweetener!
Next, in a bowl, mix together the bread crumbs, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes. This mixture will create a flavorful coating for the goat cheese.
Now, heat a skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil. While it’s heating, dip each slice of goat cheese first in the beaten egg, coating it well, then into the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to ensure the crumbs adhere well.
Once the oil is hot, carefully place the coated goat cheese slices into the skillet. Fry until they are golden brown on both sides, about 1 minute per side, but be cautious not to melt the cheese completely. Enjoy that lovely sound of sizzling!
Once cooked, remove the goat cheese from the skillet and set aside on a paper towel to absorb any excess oil while you prepare your salad.
In a large bowl, toss together the spring greens with a generous amount of the dressing made from champagne vinegar, honey, ginger, grated garlic, salt, and pepper. Make sure every green leaf is coated well!
Next, add in the grape tomatoes and warm walnuts, mixing gently. This adds depth and flavor to the salad. You want every bite to be a burst of flavor!
Finally, to serve, arrange the candied lemon slices and fried goat cheese on top of the salad. Drizzle with any leftover dressing and serve immediately. This dish is best enjoyed fresh!

Things Worth Knowing

Choosing lemons: Meyer lemons are less acidic and sweeter compared to regular lemons. They’re perfect for candying, as they add a unique depth of flavor.
Frying goat cheese: Ensure the oil is at the right temperature before frying. Too hot and the cheese will burn; too cool and it will just absorb oil.
Toasting walnuts: Toasting enhances the natural nutty flavors. Keep an eye on them, as they can burn quickly!
Cooling syrup: Don’t skip the cooling step for the candied lemons. It allows them to become syrupy and flavorful.

Substitutions and Tips

When it comes to making the Spring Greens with Candied Meyer Lemons and Spicy Fried Goat Cheese, there are a few things to keep in mind that can enhance your experience. Here are some useful tips and substitutions.

Storage: The salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. However, the goat cheese may lose its crunch.
Freezing: It’s not recommended to freeze this dish due to the fresh ingredients and the texture of the fried goat cheese.
Pairing: This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.
Variations: Feel free to substitute goat cheese with feta if you prefer. You can also add fruits like strawberries or avocado for extra flavor.
Make ahead: You can candy the lemons a day in advance to save time.

What to Serve With Spring Greens with Candied Meyer Lemons and Spicy Fried Goat Cheese

Serving the Spring Greens with Candied Meyer Lemons and Spicy Fried Goat Cheese is all about enhancing its fresh, vibrant nature. Here are some ideas on what to serve alongside this dish:

Grilled Chicken: The lightness of grilled chicken complements the salad perfectly, making it a hearty meal.
Crusty Bread: A slice of artisanal bread can be a great addition, perfect for soaking up any leftover dressing.
Roasted Vegetables: Serve roasted seasonal vegetables on the side for a wholesome meal.
Cheese Platter: A light cheese platter with a mix of cheeses can also pair beautifully with this dish.
Seasonal Fruits: Incorporating seasonal fruits like strawberries or figs can add a sweet touch to your meal.
Occasions: This dish is ideal for spring gatherings, brunch, or as a light dinner option. It’s perfect for a sunny day outside!

FAQ

Absolutely! While Meyer lemons bring a unique sweetness and less acidity, you can certainly use regular lemons. Just be mindful that you may want to adjust the sugar in the candied lemon preparation to account for the extra tartness of regular lemons.

The Spring Greens with Candied Meyer Lemons and Spicy Fried Goat Cheese is already vegetarian-friendly. Just ensure that the goat cheese you use is made without animal rennet, and you’ll have a delicious vegetarian dish to enjoy!

You can use a variety of greens in this salad. Arugula, kale, or even mixed baby greens work wonderfully. Each will bring its own flavor profile and texture to the dish, so feel free to experiment!

Yes, you can prepare the candied lemons a day or two in advance. Just store them in the syrup in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use them. This will save you time and enhance the flavors as they sit!

Conclusion

The Spring Greens with Candied Meyer Lemons and Spicy Fried Goat Cheese is a vibrant dish that perfectly embodies spring. Fresh greens, sweet lemons, and crispy goat cheese come together to create a delightful experience for your taste buds. I encourage you to try making this dish and impress your friends and family with your culinary skills. It’s sure to become a favorite in your household, just like it is in mine!