Deconstructed salad with Roquefort cheese and apricot-orange chutney

Deconstructed salad with Roquefort, apricot and orange chutney

Discover a vibrant and flavorful recipe that will bring a touch of sophistication to your table: deconstructed salad with Roquefort and apricot and orange chutney. This salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also an explosion of tastes that complement each other perfectly, with each ingredient playing its well-defined role.

Total preparation time: 20 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:

- 100 grams Roquefort, cut into pieces
- 20 grams walnuts, lightly toasted
- 2 teaspoons apricot and orange chutney
- Savory crackers, for serving
- 1 Granny Smith apple, thinly sliced
- Spinach leaves, arugula, and lettuce, for serving and garnish
- 2 thyme leaves, for flavor and decoration

A brief story about the recipe:

This deconstructed salad is inspired by culinary traditions that emphasize the beautiful presentation of ingredients. The concept of a deconstructed salad allows the freedom to experiment with textures and flavors without being constrained by strict rules. Roquefort, a cheese with personality, blends perfectly with the sweetness of the chutney, while the walnuts add a crunchy touch. It is an excellent choice for a sophisticated appetizer at an elegant dinner or for a relaxed brunch.

Step by step to a perfect result:

1. Preparing the ingredients:
- Start by cutting the Roquefort into small pieces that are easy to consume. This cheese has an intense flavor, so it is recommended not to cut too many pieces at once.
- Slice the Granny Smith apple thinly. This apple variety is known for its acidity, which will contrast beautifully with the creaminess of the Roquefort cheese.

2. Toasting the walnuts:
- In a small pan, toast the walnuts for 3-5 minutes, stirring constantly, until they become golden and release their aroma. Toasted walnuts will add a warm note and a crunchy texture to the salad.

3. Assembling the salad:
- On a large platter, artfully arrange the spinach, arugula, and lettuce leaves. These greens will form the base of the salad and add freshness.
- Place the apple slices on the leaves, followed by the pieces of Roquefort. Add the toasted walnuts for a pleasing contrast of textures.
- Finally, add teaspoons of apricot and orange chutney over the cheese to provide a sweet and juicy note.

4. Decorating and serving:
- Garnish the platter with thyme leaves, which not only enhance the visual appeal but also bring a fresh aroma.
- Serve the salad at room temperature, along with crunchy savory crackers that will add an extra dimension to the flavor.

Practical tips:

- How to choose Roquefort: Opt for quality Roquefort with a good fat content for a more intense flavor. Check the label to ensure it is authentic.
- The chutney: If you can't find apricot and orange chutney, you can use peach chutney or another type of fruit chutney, but make sure it is sweet and slightly spiced.
- Vegan option: For a vegan version, replace the Roquefort with a vegan cheese or a mix of tofu with spices to recreate the texture and flavor.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, you can experiment with cheeses like Gorgonzola or Feta, but each will slightly alter the flavor profile of the salad.

2. Can it be prepared in advance?
It is recommended to assemble the salad just before serving to maintain the freshness of the ingredients. However, you can prepare each ingredient in advance and combine them later.

3. What other recipes can it be paired with?
This deconstructed salad pairs perfectly with grilled chicken or beef steak, but it can also be served as part of a cheese and charcuterie board.

Nutritional benefits:

- Roquefort is rich in calcium, protein, and healthy fats, also containing a high level of beneficial probiotics for digestion.
- Walnuts are an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which contribute to heart health.
- The Granny Smith apple provides fiber and vitamins, being an ingredient that aids in healthy digestion.

This deconstructed salad with Roquefort, apricot, and orange chutney is not just a meal but a culinary experience that will delight all the senses. Try it and let yourself be carried away by its unique flavors!