Warm roasted vegetable salad with goat cheese

A warm roasted vegetable salad with goat cheese is a perfect dish for a cozy meal that balances flavors and textures. Here's a recipe for you:

Warm Roasted Vegetable Salad with Goat Cheese

Ingredients:

• Vegetables (choose a mix of your favorites):
  • 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
  • 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
  • 1 zucchini, sliced
  • 1 red onion, quartered
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes
  • 1-2 carrots, sliced
  • 1 small eggplant, cubed
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 4 oz (120g) goat cheese, crumbled
• 4 cups mixed salad greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
• ¼ cup toasted walnuts or pine nuts (optional)
• 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze or vinegar for drizzling

For the Dressing:

• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Prepare the Vegetables:

   • Toss the chopped vegetables (sweet potato, bell pepper, zucchini, onion, carrots, eggplant, and tomatoes) with olive oil, thyme, rosemary, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
   • Spread them out on a baking sheet in a single layer.

3. Roast the Vegetables:

   • Roast for 25-30 minutes, tossing halfway through, until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized.

4. Prepare the Dressing:

   • In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper.

5. Assemble the Salad:

   • Place the mixed salad greens on a large serving platter.
   • Top with the warm roasted vegetables.
   • Crumble goat cheese over the salad.
   • Sprinkle toasted nuts for extra crunch, if using.

6. Drizzle with Dressing:

   • Pour the dressing over the salad or serve on the side.
   • Optionally, drizzle balsamic glaze on top for extra flavor.

7. Serve Warm:

   • Serve the salad while the vegetables are still warm, allowing the goat cheese to soften slightly.

Enjoy this delicious, hearty salad perfect for any meal!