The Ultimate Warm Goat Cheese Salad: Crispy, Tangy, and Sweet with Hot Honey Balsamic Dressing
This goat cheese salad isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience. Imagine warm, golden-brown crispy goat cheese rounds, perfectly complementing the peppery bite of fresh arugula. Add in the juicy sweetness of ripe strawberries and a drizzle of our signature tangy hot honey balsamic dressing, and you have a symphony of flavors and textures that is truly irresistible. This fresh, vibrant, and utterly delicious recipe is a game-changer for any lunch or dinner, proving that salads can be both gourmet and easy to prepare.
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About This Warm Goat Cheese Salad
For those who cherish the distinct flavor and creamy texture of goat cheese, this salad is nothing short of a culinary dream. The first time I combined the irresistible crunch of golden, pan-fried goat cheese rounds with the vibrant freshness of sweet strawberries, the bold kick of peppery arugula, and a luxurious drizzle of hot honey balsamic dressing, I was utterly amazed. It’s a testament to how deceptively simple ingredients can come together to create something so incredibly sophisticated and satisfying.
What truly elevates this recipe is the masterful interplay of textures and flavors. Each forkful offers a delightful contrast: the velvety creaminess of the goat cheese melting into the greens, the satisfying crispness of its breaded exterior, the bright sweetness of the strawberries, the zesty tang of the dressing, and that subtle, warming hint of spice from the hot honey. It’s a salad that feels special enough to grace the table at a dinner party, yet it’s wonderfully straightforward to whip up for a quick and wholesome weeknight meal. The way the warm goat cheese rounds gently soften and mingle with the cool, crisp greens is an experience you’ll want to savor again and again.
I often turn to this recipe for my weekly meal prep, especially when I need a delicious incentive to look forward to my lunch. The beauty of this salad is that its components can be prepared ahead of time and stored separately, making assembly a breeze. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply give the cheese rounds a quick gentle reheat in a skillet or oven, and you’re moments away from a gourmet meal. This warm goat cheese salad transforms a humble salad into an exciting, eagerly anticipated dish. I sincerely hope it finds a permanent place in your cooking repertoire, particularly when fresh, seasonal strawberries are at their peak!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Dull, uninspired salads are a thing of the past. This warm goat cheese salad is designed to delight your senses and make healthy eating an absolute pleasure. Here’s why this recipe will quickly become one of your favorites:
- Crispy, Melty Goat Cheese You’ll Crave: The star of the show, these breaded and pan-fried goat cheese rounds are golden, crunchy on the outside, and lusciously creamy and warm on the inside. They transform an ordinary salad into an extraordinary dish, offering a unique textural and flavor component you’ll want to add to everything!
- A Perfectly Balanced Flavor Profile: This salad offers an exquisite harmony of tastes. The sweet burst of fresh strawberries beautifully contrasts with the peppery kick of arugula, while the tangy goat cheese and a hint of spicy hot honey balsamic dressing create a multi-dimensional experience that keeps you coming back for more.
- Utilizes Fresh, Seasonal Ingredients: Emphasizing peak-season produce, this recipe shines brightest when strawberries are ripe and sweet. Using fresh ingredients not only enhances the flavor but also provides a nutritious and vibrant meal, celebrating the best of what nature has to offer.
- Elegant Presentation, Simple Preparation: Despite its sophisticated appearance, this warm goat cheese salad is remarkably easy to prepare. It’s perfect for impressing guests without spending hours in the kitchen, proving that gourmet doesn’t have to mean complicated.
- Make-Ahead Friendly Components: Life can be busy, and this recipe understands that. The dressing can be prepared days in advance, and the goat cheese rounds can be breaded and chilled, ready for a quick fry when you’re ready to eat. This flexibility makes it an ideal option for meal prepping or busy weeknights.
Essential Ingredients for This Delicious Salad
Each ingredient in this warm goat cheese salad plays a vital role in creating its harmonious flavor and texture. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need:
Goat Cheese – This is the unequivocal star of the dish. Opt for a firm, log-style goat cheese, as it’s easiest to slice into uniform 1-ounce rounds. The log shape allows for precise portions that hold their form beautifully during the breading and frying process, leading to those sought-after crispy, melty centers.
All-Purpose Flour – Essential for creating the perfect crispy crust on the goat cheese. The flour acts as the initial coating, creating a dry surface that allows the egg wash to adhere effectively. For dietary needs, a gluten-free 1:1 flour blend can be seamlessly substituted without compromising the texture.
Egg – Serving as the crucial binder, the egg wash ensures the breadcrumbs stick firmly to the floured goat cheese rounds. A splash of water helps thin the egg slightly for even coating, or you can use milk for an extra layer of richness in the crust.
Italian Bread Crumbs – These provide the ultimate golden-brown crispiness and infuse an additional layer of herbaceous flavor. While Italian breadcrumbs are recommended for their built-in seasoning, plain breadcrumbs can be used with a pinch of salt and pepper. For an extra-crisp texture, panko breadcrumbs are an excellent choice. Gluten-free breadcrumbs are also a viable alternative.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil – A high-quality extra virgin olive oil is used both for frying the goat cheese to a perfect crisp and as a foundational component in the vibrant hot honey balsamic vinaigrette. For a lighter touch, a light olive oil or avocado oil works equally well.
Balsamic Vinegar – The backbone of our tangy dressing. The choice of balsamic can significantly impact the final flavor. An aged balsamic will lend a sweeter, more complex note, while a standard balsamic will provide a sharper, more pronounced tang. Choose your favorite brand to match your preference.
Apple Cider Vinegar – This adds another layer of bright acidity and a subtle fruity undertone to the vinaigrette. If you don’t have it on hand, red wine vinegar makes a suitable substitute, offering a similar tang with a slightly different depth.
Hot Honey – The secret ingredient that introduces a delightful balance of sweetness and heat to the dressing. You can either make your own hot honey for a personalized spice level or easily purchase it from most grocery stores. If you prefer to skip the spice, regular honey can be used for just the sweet notes.
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – An optional but highly recommended addition for those who enjoy an extra fiery kick in their dressing. These flakes amplify the warmth from the hot honey, creating a more dynamic flavor profile.
Garlic – Freshly minced garlic is paramount for an aromatic and pungent vinaigrette. Its robust flavor is unmatched, but in a pinch, 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder can be used as a convenient alternative.
Sea Salt – A fundamental seasoning used throughout the recipe, from flavoring the goat cheese breading to balancing the dressing. Always season to taste, enhancing all the individual flavors.
Arugula – With its distinctive peppery flavor, baby arugula leaves form the perfect crisp base for this salad. Its slight bitterness beautifully cuts through the richness of the goat cheese and sweetness of the strawberries. Baby spinach, mixed greens, or even massaged kale can be used as excellent alternatives.
Strawberries – These sweet, juicy berries are a delightful counterpoint to the savory elements of the salad. When in season, they add a burst of fresh flavor and vibrant color. Depending on the time of year, blueberries, raspberries, or even sliced fresh figs can provide similar sweet notes.
Pistachios – Providing a wonderful crunch and a subtly buttery flavor, pistachios add essential textural contrast. For a different nut profile, pecans, almonds, or walnuts can be swapped in, each bringing its own unique characteristic.
Red Onion – Thinly sliced red onion contributes a crisp texture and a pungent, slightly spicy bite that awakens the palate. If you prefer a milder onion flavor, sweet onion is a great choice. For an extra layer of tang and a softer texture, pickled onions can be used.
Mint Leaves – Fresh mint is a bright, aromatic herb that truly elevates this salad, adding a burst of cooling freshness. Its vibrant essence ties all the flavors together beautifully. Fresh basil can be used as a milder, yet still aromatic, alternative.
Essential Equipment for This Recipe
Having the right tools on hand will make preparing this warm goat cheese salad a smooth and enjoyable process. Here are the must-have items:
- Sharp Chef’s Knife and Cutting Board: For precise slicing of the goat cheese log, strawberries, and red onion, a sharp knife and sturdy cutting board are indispensable. Good knife work ensures uniform pieces for even cooking and appealing presentation.
- Mixing Bowl Set: You’ll need at least three shallow bowls to set up your breading station for the goat cheese rounds. Having a dedicated set makes the dredging process clean and efficient.
- Cast Iron Skillet or Nonstick Skillet: A cast iron skillet is ideal for frying the goat cheese rounds as it retains heat exceptionally well, leading to a consistently crispy, golden crust. A good quality nonstick skillet will also work effectively, preventing the cheese from sticking and ensuring easy flipping.
- Blender or Food Processor (e.g., Vitamix): For creating the perfectly smooth and emulsified hot honey balsamic vinaigrette, a blender or a food processor is essential. A high-speed blender like a Vitamix ensures a creamy, well-combined dressing.
Step-by-Step: How to Make This Delicious Goat Cheese Salad
Crafting this warm goat cheese salad is a straightforward process that yields impressive results. Follow these simple steps for a truly memorable dish:
1. Prepare the Goat Cheese Rounds
Start by taking your log of goat cheese and carefully slicing it into eight uniform 1-ounce rounds. The goal here is consistency, as this will help them cook evenly. Once sliced, gently shape each round into a firm, compact patty. This helps them maintain their structure during the breading and frying process. Next, set up your efficient breading station. Designate three separate bowls: one for the all-purpose flour, one for the egg wash (a single large egg lightly beaten with a splash of water until combined), and a third for the Italian breadcrumbs. Dip each goat cheese patty into the flour first, ensuring it’s fully coated, then gently shake off any excess. Next, immerse it in the egg wash, allowing any extra to drip off. Finally, dredge it thoroughly in the breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to ensure a firm, even coating. Place the breaded rounds on a clean plate, making sure they don’t touch.
2. Chill the Breaded Goat Cheese
This step is absolutely crucial and should not be skipped. Once all your goat cheese rounds are breaded, transfer the plate to the refrigerator. Allow them to chill for at least 1 hour. This chilling period is vital because it firms up the goat cheese and helps the breading adhere securely, preventing the rounds from falling apart or melting too quickly when they hit the hot oil. Properly chilled goat cheese ensures a perfect golden, crispy exterior and a wonderfully creamy, warm interior.
3. Prepare the Hot Honey Balsamic Vinaigrette
While your goat cheese is chilling, take this opportunity to prepare the vibrant hot honey balsamic vinaigrette. Gather all the ingredients for the dressing – balsamic vinegar, apple cider vinegar, hot honey, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), minced garlic, extra virgin olive oil, and sea salt. Combine them in a blender or a food processor. Blend thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and beautifully emulsified, meaning all the ingredients are fully combined into a creamy, cohesive dressing. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed; you might want a little more salt, a touch more honey for sweetness, or extra red pepper for heat. Once perfect, transfer the vinaigrette to a container and chill it until you’re ready to assemble the salad. This allows the flavors to meld and deepen.
4. Fry the Crispy Goat Cheese
When the goat cheese has been sufficiently chilled, it’s time to fry. Add your preferred oil (extra virgin olive oil, light olive oil, or avocado oil) to a skillet over medium-high heat. You’ll know the oil is hot enough when a small breadcrumb sizzles immediately upon contact. Carefully place the chilled, breaded goat cheese rounds into the hot oil in a single layer, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan; you may need to work in batches. Fry for about 1 to 2 minutes per side, or until each round achieves a gorgeous golden-brown color and a satisfying crispness. Use tongs or a spatula to flip them gently to avoid disturbing the crust. Once perfectly fried, remove the goat cheese rounds from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with clean paper towels to drain any excess oil. This step helps maintain their crispiness.
5. Assemble and Serve Your Salad
Now for the grand finale – assembling your exquisite warm goat cheese salad. In a large salad bowl, combine the fresh arugula, sweet sliced strawberries, crunchy pistachios, thinly sliced red onion, and fragrant mint leaves. Gently arrange the warm, crispy goat cheese rounds on top of the vibrant salad mixture. For dressing, you have two options: either drizzle the hot honey balsamic vinaigrette generously over the entire salad just before serving, or present it on the side, allowing each person to dress their individual portion to their preferred taste. Serve immediately to enjoy the delightful contrast of warm cheese and cool, crisp greens. Enjoy this fresh, flavorful, and truly elegant meal!
Tips for Success
Achieving the perfect warm goat cheese salad is all about technique and a few key pointers. Keep these tips in mind to ensure a consistently delicious outcome:
- Don’t Skip Chilling the Breaded Goat Cheese: This is arguably the most critical step for perfectly fried goat cheese. Chilling the breaded rounds for at least one hour (or up to 24 hours) allows the cheese to firm up and the breading to fully adhere. If you skip this step, the goat cheese will melt too quickly in the hot oil, causing the rounds to lose their shape and the breading to fall off, resulting in a messy, less appealing texture. Patience here pays off!
- Handle the Goat Cheese Gently: Once the goat cheese rounds are breaded and chilled, they are delicate. When transferring them to the hot skillet and especially when flipping them, use a gentle touch with tongs or a thin spatula. Excessive force can crack or break the crispy crust, compromising both the appearance and the integrity of the warm, creamy interior.
- Prepare the Vinaigrette in Advance for Optimal Flavor: The hot honey balsamic vinaigrette benefits greatly from some time to allow the flavors to meld and deepen. You can prepare the dressing several hours or even a day or two ahead of time. Store it in a sealed container in the refrigerator. Just remember to give it a vigorous shake or whisk before drizzling it over your salad, as the oil and vinegar layers may separate during storage. This makes assembly quick and ensures a more robustly flavored dressing.
Delicious Variations to Customize Your Salad
While this warm goat cheese salad recipe is perfect as is, it’s also wonderfully adaptable! Feel free to get creative and customize it to your taste or what you have on hand:
- Swap the Berries for Seasonal Delights: Strawberries are fantastic, but don’t limit yourself! In other seasons, try sweet raspberries, tart blueberries, or even sliced fresh figs for a different fruity sweetness. For an autumnal twist, consider thin slices of apple or pear.
- Go Nut-Free or Try Different Crunch: If you have a nut allergy or simply want to try something different, you can easily skip the pistachios. For a similar crunchy texture without nuts, consider adding toasted pumpkin seeds (pepitas), sunflower seeds, or roasted chickpeas.
- Explore Other Green Bases: Arugula provides a fantastic peppery bite, but other greens work beautifully too. Baby spinach offers a milder flavor, baby kale adds more robust texture and nutrition, and a mix of spring greens can provide a softer, more delicate base.
- Experiment with Dressing Flavors: The hot honey balsamic is a star, but you can alter the dressing to suit your palate. Swap the balsamic vinegar with champagne vinegar for a lighter, brighter, and more delicate taste. For a creamy dressing, blend in a tablespoon of Greek yogurt or a small amount of avocado. You can also play with different honey varieties or even a drizzle of maple syrup for sweetness.
- Add Extra Vegetables: Consider adding thinly sliced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers for more crunch and color. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or bell peppers, added warm, can also complement the warm goat cheese.
- Introduce Savory Elements: A sprinkle of crumbled bacon, prosciutto crisps, or even thinly sliced grilled chicken can add a savory, meaty depth, transforming it into a heartier main course.
Craving more innovative and flavorful salads? Discover these delicious options: Tomato Onion Salad | Southwest Chicken Salad| Panzanella Toscana| Burrata Caprese Salad
Frequently Asked Questions About This Salad
Absolutely! Baking is a fantastic, lighter alternative to frying that still yields a delicious golden crust and a wonderfully creamy interior. To bake, preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Carefully place the breaded goat cheese rounds on the prepared sheet. Bake for approximately 6 to 8 minutes, making sure to gently flip them halfway through to ensure even browning on both sides. While baked goat cheese will be slightly less crunchy than its pan-fried counterpart, it will still offer a delightful contrast of warm, soft cheese within a savory crust. Always keep a close eye on them, as oven temperatures can vary, and cooking times may need slight adjustments based on the thickness of your cheese rounds.
Yes, this salad is wonderfully suited for advance preparation, making it a perfect option for meal prepping or entertaining. You can prep several components ahead of time to streamline assembly. The breaded goat cheese rounds can be prepared and chilled in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before you plan to fry them. This is a great way to get a head start. The hot honey balsamic vinaigrette is also excellent for making in advance; it can be stored in a sealed jar or container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just remember that the dressing may separate over time, so give it a good whisk or shake before using to re-emulsify it. For the salad greens, strawberries, onions, nuts, and mint, it’s best to store them separately in airtight containers until just before you’re ready to serve. This ensures everything remains fresh, crisp, and vibrant. When it’s time to eat, simply fry the goat cheese, combine the fresh components, and dress, and you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal in minutes.
For this specific recipe, a firm, log-style goat cheese is highly recommended and works best. The log shape allows you to easily slice it into uniform 1-ounce rounds, which is essential for consistent breading and frying. A firmer goat cheese will hold its shape much better during the entire process, from slicing to breading to frying, preventing it from crumbling or spreading too much in the hot oil. While softer or crumblier goat cheese varieties are delicious in their own right, they can be challenging to handle for this particular preparation method and might not maintain the desired shape and crispy crust. Look for chèvre logs in your dairy or specialty cheese section for the best results.
Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with Warm Goat Cheese Salad
This warm goat cheese salad is incredibly versatile, making it an excellent standalone meal or a delightful accompaniment to a variety of main courses. Here are some pairing suggestions to complete your culinary experience:
- Artisan Bread & Carbs: The rich, tangy dressing and creamy goat cheese are perfect for soaking up with a good piece of bread. Serve with warm crusty baguette slices, hearty sourdough toast, or delicate crostini. These not only provide a satisfying textural contrast but also act as a delicious vehicle for enjoying every last drop of dressing.
- Protein-Packed Add-Ons: To transform this vibrant salad into a more substantial and filling entrée, consider adding a lean protein. Grilled chicken breast, pan-seared shrimp, or flaky salmon fillets are excellent choices. Their savory flavors beautifully complement the sweetness of the strawberries and the tang of the goat cheese, creating a well-rounded and satisfying meal. You could also try pan-seared scallops for a luxurious touch.
- Light Soups: For a lighter meal, pair this salad with a delicate soup, such as a creamy tomato bisque, a chilled gazpacho, or a simple vegetable broth. The contrasting temperatures and textures will create an interesting and satisfying lunch or dinner.
- Pasta Dishes: The freshness of the salad makes it an ideal side for richer pasta dishes. Think a light lemon-garlic pasta, a pesto linguine, or a simple aglio e olio. The salad provides a refreshing counterpoint to the heartiness of the pasta.
- Grilled Meats: If you’re hosting a barbecue or simply enjoying grilled foods, this salad makes a fantastic side. Its bright flavors cut through the richness of grilled steak, pork tenderloin, or lamb chops, providing a refreshing balance.
How to Store Your Warm Goat Cheese Salad Components
Proper storage is key to enjoying this salad for days to come, especially if you’re meal prepping. Since freshness is paramount, it’s best to store the components separately:
- Goat Cheese Rounds: After cooking, allow the crispy goat cheese rounds to cool completely. Then, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, placing paper towels between layers to absorb any moisture and prevent them from sticking. To reheat and restore their delightful crispiness, avoid the microwave as it will make them soggy. Instead, gently warm them in a 375°F (190°C) oven for about 5 to 6 minutes, or until heated through and crisp. You can also quickly pan-fry them again for a minute on each side.
- Hot Honey Balsamic Vinaigrette: This flavorful dressing stores beautifully. Transfer it to a sealed jar or airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to 1 week. It’s perfectly normal for the oil and vinegar layers to separate over time; simply give the jar a good shake or whisk thoroughly before each use to re-emulsify the dressing and blend the flavors.
- Salad Components (Arugula, Strawberries, Onions, Pistachios, Mint): To maintain optimal freshness, crunch, and vibrancy, store the individual salad components separately. Keep arugula in an airtight bag or container with a paper towel to absorb moisture. Store washed and dried strawberries in a breathable container. Onions, pistachios, and mint should also be kept in separate airtight containers. Assemble the full salad just before serving to ensure the best possible texture and flavor, preventing the greens from wilting or the nuts from softening.
Seeking even more culinary inspiration for fresh, vibrant salads? Explore my comprehensive salad recipes page!
Discover More of Our Favorite Goat Cheese Recipes
If you’ve fallen in love with the creamy, tangy goodness of goat cheese in this salad, you’ll be thrilled to explore our other beloved recipes featuring this versatile ingredient:
- For an appetizer that’s sure to impress, our Baked Goat Cheese Dip is a simple yet incredibly rich and gooey delight, bursting with that signature tangy flavor. It’s perfect for sharing!
- If you adore the combination of savory carbs and rich cheese, these Black Pepper Goat Cheese Biscuits offer the best of both worlds. They’re fluffy, cheesy, and utterly irresistible.
- Looking for a cool and creamy goat cheese option? Our Whipped Goat Cheese, elegantly topped with a fresh and zesty salsa, is a refreshing dip that’s perfect for any occasion.
Finally, if you recreate this warm goat cheese salad recipe in your kitchen, please do us a huge favor and give it a star rating on the recipe card below and/or leave a comment! Your feedback is incredibly valuable to us, and we genuinely love hearing about your culinary successes. We make it a point to respond to every single comment, so don’t hesitate to share your thoughts or any questions you might have.
And for those who love to share their creations, be sure to tag me on Instagram, Facebook, or Pinterest! Seeing these delicious recipes come to life in your homes is truly my favorite thing, and it means the world to me to scroll through your beautiful photos.
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Warm Goat Cheese Salad with Strawberries and Arugula
Equipment
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food processor
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Vitamix Blender
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mixing bowls
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Shun Chef’s Knife
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Utility Cutting Board
Ingredients
- 8 oz. goat cheese sliced into one-ounce rounds
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg lightly beaten with a splash of water
- 1/3 cup Italian bread crumbs
- 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil for frying
- 5 Tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 Tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 2 Tbsp hot honey
- 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes optional, for extra heat
- 2 cloves garlic very finely minced
- 4 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 tsp sea salt plus more to taste
- 7 ounces baby arugula
- 2/3 cup sliced strawberries
- 1/2 cup pistachios or your favorite nut!
- 1/3 cup thinly sliced red onion
- 1/3 cup roughly chopped fresh mint leaves
Instructions
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Begin by preparing the goat cheese. Divide the goat cheese log into 8 thick slices (approximately 1 ounce per slice). Use your hands to gently form each slice into a firm, compact round or patty. Place these shaped goat cheese rounds on an empty clean plate.
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Set up your breading station. In one shallow bowl, add the 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour. In a second separate bowl, add the large egg and a splash of water, then lightly beat until well combined. In a third and final separate bowl, add the 1/3 cup of Italian bread crumbs.
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To bread the goat cheese rounds, dip each one first into the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the beaten egg mixture, letting any extra drip away. Finally, thoroughly coat it in the bread crumbs, gently pressing the crumbs onto the cheese to ensure a complete and even covering. Place the breaded rounds on a clean plate and immediately transfer them to the refrigerator. Chill for at least 1 hour to allow the cheese to firm up and the breading to adhere well, which is essential to prevent them from falling apart when fried.
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While the goat cheese is chilling in the fridge, proceed to make the vinaigrette.
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Add all of the listed ingredients for the vinaigrette (balsamic vinegar, apple cider vinegar, hot honey, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), minced garlic, extra virgin olive oil, and sea salt) to a blender or food processor. Blend until the mixture is completely smooth and thoroughly emulsified. Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning as desired, adding more salt or hot honey to taste. Place the vinaigrette in the refrigerator until it’s ready to be used. Note that if left to sit for a while, the dressing may separate, so you will need to give it a good whisk or shake to combine it again before serving.
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Once the goat cheese rounds are properly chilled, add the 2 tablespoons of oil to a medium skillet and place it over medium-high heat. Allow the oil to get hot. Carefully add the chilled goat cheese rounds to the skillet in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 1 to 2 minutes on each side, or until they turn a beautiful golden brown and become crisp. Depending on the size of your skillet, you might need to cook them in batches to ensure even browning.
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Once cooked, remove the fried goat cheese rounds from the skillet and place them on a clean plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. This helps maintain their crispiness.
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To assemble the salad, add the fresh arugula to a large serving bowl. Evenly top the arugula with the sliced strawberries, crunchy pistachios, thinly sliced red onion, and roughly chopped fresh mint. Gently place the warm, crispy goat cheese rounds on top of the colorful salad. You can either drizzle the entire salad with the hot honey balsamic dressing just before serving, or you can serve the dressing on the side, allowing everyone to dress their individual portions as they prefer. Enjoy your freshly assembled, warm goat cheese salad immediately!