Baked Goat Cheese Salad
6 oz. Melba toasts
1 tsp. black pepper
1 Tbsp. fresh thyme
1 Tbsp. fresh chives
5 large eggs
3 Tbsp. Dijon mustard
12 oz. goat cheese
Extra virgin olive oil
Mixed greens
1 shallot, minced
Extra virgin olive oil
Balsamic vinegar
Salt & pepper
In a food processor, process the Melba toasts to fine, even crumbs. Transfer them to a bowl and stir in the pepper and herbs.
Whisk the eggs and mustard in a second bowl.
Using dental floss or kitchen twine, divide the cheese into 12 equal pieces. Form them back into a round disk. Dredge each piece in the egg mixture and then in the Melba crumbs. Set on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Place in freezer until firm, about 30 mins.
Preheat oven to 475°.
Remove from freezer and brush with olive oil on tops and sides. Bake until golden brown and the cheese is slightly soft, 7-9 mins. Using a thin metal spatula, transfer to a paper towel lined plate to cool for 3 mins.
Meanwhile, make your salad. Lightly dress it with the vinaigrette. Garnish with baked cheese and drizzle with last bit of vinaigrette.
Serves 26 as wine pairing