Avocado and Hard Cheese Salad

This delightful avocado and hard cheese salad is a perfect blend of creamy avocados, crispy bacon, ripe tomatoes, and robust Džiugas cheese. It's an elegant dish that brings together a variety of textures and flavors, making it both satisfying and memorable. The tangy dressing, featuring honey and chili pepper sauce, adds a hint of sweetness and spice that perfectly complements the creamy avocado. Easy to prepare and visually appealing, the salad also includes a crunchy element from celery and bell peppers. This dish is superb as a light lunch or an appetizer for a dinner party. The grated Džiugas hard cheese, aged for 24 months, lends a sophisticated touch and enhances the flavor profile significantly. This salad can be served warm or at room temperature, ensuring flexibility in serving options. Whether you're looking to impress your guests or simply enjoy a delicious meal at home, this avocado salad delivers on all fronts.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 3 large avocados
• 4 thin slices of bacon
• 1 tomato
• 1 small red onion, finely chopped
• 1 small sweet bell pepper, chopped
• 1 small celery root, chopped
• 1 cup "Džiugas mix salad" grated cheese blend
• 1/4 cup grated Džiugas hard cheese, aged 24 months

Dressing

• 2 tablespoons aromatic vinegar
• 2 teaspoons honey
• 2 teaspoons sweet and sour chili pepper sauce

Preparation Time

• Total: 40 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Prepare the Avocados: Slice the avocados lengthwise and remove approximately 2/3 of the flesh with a teaspoon. Chop the avocado flesh, keeping the skins intact for later use.

2. Chop the Tomato: Peel the tomato, remove the seeds, and dice it finely.

3. Cook the Bacon: Cook the bacon slices in a preheated oven at medium heat until crispy. Let them cool, then chop into small pieces.

4. Mix the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the chopped avocado, diced tomato, bacon pieces, red onion, bell pepper, and celery root. Mix them well to ensure even distribution.

5. Prepare the Dressing: In a small glass jar with a screw-top lid, combine the honey, chili pepper sauce, and vinegar. Shake well until the mixture is thoroughly combined.

6. Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the mixed ingredients, stirring well to coat everything evenly. Add the "Džiugas mix salad" cheese blend and stir again.

7. Fill the Avocado Halves: Spoon the salad mixture back into the avocado skins, mounding it as necessary.

8. Top with Hard Cheese: Sprinkle the grated Džiugas hard cheese, aged for 24 months, over the filled avocado halves for added flavor and texture.

9. Bake (Optional): If desired, preheat the oven to 180°C (356°F). Place the filled avocado halves on a baking sheet and bake for 7-10 minutes until warmed through.

10. Serve: Arrange the avocados on a serving platter, optionally garnished with crackers or breadsticks for a delightful contrast.

Tips

• Substitutions: For a vegetarian option, replace bacon with smoked tofu or tempeh.
• Cheese: If Džiugas cheese is unavailable, a well-aged Parmesan can be a suitable substitute.
• Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in airtight containers, though best enjoyed fresh.

Nutritions

• Calories: 480 per serving
• Protein: 15g
• Fats: 35g
• Carbs: 22g

Variations

• Vegan Version: Use vegan cheese and substitute bacon with roasted chickpeas for added crunch.
• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dressing for an extra kick.

Serving Suggestions

• Garnish: Fresh cilantro or parsley adds a burst of color and freshness.
• Pairing: Accompany with a crisp white wine or sparkling water with a lemon wedge for a refreshing meal.

Best Places

1. The Avocado Show – A delightful cafe for avocado lovers. Location: Daniël Stalpertstraat 61, Amsterdam, Netherlands.

2. L'Artista – Offers a unique blend of cheese dishes. Location: Via Laurina, 23, Rome, Italy.

3. Green Avocado – Known for innovative recipes. Location: Sukhumvit 24, Bangkok, Thailand.

4. Cheese Bar – Specializes in hard cheese dishes. Location: Camden Market, London, UK.

5. Avocado's – American cuisine with a twist of avocado. Location: College Ave, Athens, Georgia, USA.

6. El Topo – Mexican inspired with bold flavors. Location: Summer St, Houston, Texas, USA.

7. La Fromagerie – Renowned for exquisite cheese selections. Location: Rue de Grenelle, Paris, France.

8. AvoEatery – Offers avocado-based creations. Location: Trinity Groves, Dallas, Texas, USA.

9. Cheese & Cheers – Blends cheeses with creative ideas. Location: Koningsstraat 4, Antwerp, Belgium.

10. Avocaderia – A fast-casual spot specializing in avocados. Location: 54 39th St, Brooklyn, New York, USA.