Krasainie Cheese Salad Recipe

This vibrant cheese salad offers a delightful combination of textures and flavors, making it a refreshing choice for any meal. It's a creative blend of fresh ingredients, including Gouda cheese, radishes, and cucumbers, that are beautifully complemented by a tangy mustard dressing. The preparation is simple yet effective, allowing the natural flavors to shine. Perfect for warm days, this salad is both colorful and nutritious. It's an excellent choice for gatherings, adding a burst of flavor to your table. The fresh vegetables provide a crunch, while the cheese adds a creamy richness. The seasoning is balanced with sweet mustard and a hint of lemon juice, making each bite delectable. Serve it as an appetizer or a side dish, and watch it become a favorite among your guests.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 325 g Gouda cheese
• 1 bunch of radishes
• 1 fresh cucumber
• 2-3 pickled cucumbers
• 1 bunch of spring onions
• 1 bunch of chives
• 1/2 bunch of dill

Spices and Sauces:

• 2 teaspoons sweet mustard
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 3 tablespoons sunflower oil
• 1 tablespoon sour cream
• Paprika powder
• Salt
• Pepper

Preparation Time

Total time: 40 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Start by preparing the Gouda cheese. Cut the cheese into thin strips and set aside in a large mixing bowl.
2. Clean and slice the radishes and fresh cucumber. First, cut them into slices, and then julienne them into matchstick-like pieces. Add them to the bowl with the cheese.
3. Dice the pickled cucumbers into small cubes and add them to the mix.
4. Prepare the spring onions by washing, peeling, and finely chopping both the onions and chives into small pieces. This will add a lovely contrast of color and a mild bite to the salad.
5. Finely chop the dill along with the chives to enhance the salad with fresh, aromatic herbs.
6. To make the dressing, whisk together the sweet mustard and lemon juice in a small bowl. This will bring a hint of sweetness and acidity to balance the creaminess of the cheese.
7. Gradually incorporate the oil by whisking it slowly into the mustard mixture until well combined. The dressing should be smooth and slightly emulsified.
8. Stir in the chopped chives into the dressing to infuse it with additional flavor.
9. Add the sour cream if desired, for a richer texture and creaminess in the dressing.
10. Season the dressing with a pinch of salt, pepper, and a dash of paprika powder for a subtle smokiness.
11. Combine the cheese, radish, cucumber, and spring onion mixture gently in a serving bowl.
12. Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients, ensuring they are evenly coated.
13. Toss the salad gently, trying not to break apart the cheese strips or crush the vegetables, which maintains a pleasing presentation.
14. Taste the salad, and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.
15. Finish by garnishing with freshly chopped dill for a pop of green and an additional layer of fragrance.
16. Refrigerate the salad briefly to allow the flavors to meld if you have time, or serve immediately.
17. Present the salad in a decorative bowl or platter for a visually appealing effect.
18. Serve as a refreshing appetizer or alongside grilled meats or fish.

Tips

• For extra crunch, consider adding some chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts.
• Substitute the Gouda with another cheese like cheddar if Gouda is unavailable.
• Adjust the dressing to your taste by increasing the lemon for more zing or the mustard for added sweetness and depth.
• To make it healthier, reduce the oil and replace sour cream with Greek yogurt.

Variations

• Vegetarian option: Add cherry tomatoes or bell peppers for more variety.
• Vegan twist: Use dairy-free cheese alternatives and replace sour cream with plant-based yogurt.
• Add protein: Include grilled chicken or chickpeas for a heartier salad.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with crusty bread for a complete meal.
• Serve with grilled fish or chicken for a balanced dish.
• Garnish with additional chives or paprika for a colorful presentation.

Best Places

• Cheese Treat Cafe - Known for unique cheese dishes and vibrant salads. Location: 123 Cheese Rd, Amsterdam, Netherlands.
• Leafy Delight Bistro - Offering fresh and inventive salads in a cozy setting. Location: 45 Greenway Lane, London, UK.
• The Herb Garden - Specializes in herb-infused dishes and rustic charm. Location: 67 Aroma Ave, Paris, France.
• Fresh Palette Bar - Features a menu with globally inspired salad creations. Location: 22 Flavor St, New York, USA.
• Veggie Haven - Known for its delectable vegetarian options and sustainable practices. Location: 88 Plant Rd, Sydney, Australia.
• Salad Express - Offers quick yet nourishing meals with fresh ingredients. Location: 10 Leafy St, Berlin, Germany.
• Earth’s Bounty Cafe - Focuses on local produce and delightful salads. Location: 32 Root Drive, Cape Town, South Africa.
• Organic Harvest Eatery - All about organic ingredients and casual dining. Location: 56 Garden Court, Vancouver, Canada.
• Sunshine Greens Deli - Perfect mix of classic and contemporary salad options. Location: 11 Glow Lane, San Francisco, USA.
• Nature’s Feast - A variety of vegan and vegetarian dishes in a serene setting. Location: 29 Blossom Blvd, Auckland, New Zealand.