Dinner

Cherry, Pecan & Goat Cheese Salad Recipe

ByHugo Harnd December 3, 2025December 3, 2025

Introduction

This Cherry, Pecan & Goat Cheese Salad is a delightful combination of fresh greens, sweet dried cherries, crunchy pecans, and creamy goat cheese. Tossed in a tangy balsamic dressing, it’s a perfect light meal or side dish bursting with flavor and texture.

A close-up of a white bowl filled with a fresh layered salad. The bottom layer consists of mixed green and purple leafy lettuce, followed by scattered small green slices of celery. On top, there are generous clusters of chopped walnuts, crumbled white cheese, and small dark red dried cranberries spread evenly throughout. The textures vary from soft lettuce to crunchy nuts and chewy cranberries. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface with a blurred background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

10 ounces fresh greens
1/2 cup dried cherries
1/2 cup chopped pecans
5 ounces goat cheese
3-4 sliced green onions
3/4 cup olive oil
3 Tablespoons balsamic vinegar
2 teaspoons minced red onion
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1 garlic clove (minced)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon sugar
1/4 teaspoon pepper

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the fresh greens, dried cherries, chopped pecans, crumbled goat cheese, and sliced green onions.
Step 2: In a separate small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced red onion, dried oregano, minced garlic, salt, sugar, and pepper to create the dressing. Drizzle it over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.

Tips & Variations

Toast the pecans lightly before adding for extra crunch and a deeper nutty flavor.
Substitute dried cherries with dried cranberries or dried blueberries for a different fruity note.
Use mixed greens or baby spinach as the base for added variety in texture and taste.
For a vegan version, replace goat cheese with a plant-based cheese alternative or omit it entirely.

Storage

Store leftover salad and dressing separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The salad is best eaten within 1-2 days to maintain freshness. Before serving, toss the salad again with the dressing for the best flavor. Avoid storing mixed to prevent the greens from wilting.

How to Serve

The image shows a salad in a deep white bowl filled with several layers. The bottom layer is bright green leafy lettuce with a fresh and crinkled texture. On top, there are scattered bits of white soft cheese, small dark red dried cranberries, crunchy brown walnuts, and chopped celery pieces that add a fresh light green color. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface, and a spoon and fork are visible beside it. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?

It’s best to keep the dressing separate and combine it with the salad just before serving to keep the greens crisp and fresh.

What can I use instead of goat cheese?

You can substitute goat cheese with feta, ricotta salata, or a vegan cheese alternative depending on your preference.