Panko-Crusted Goat Cheese Salad

OK, so we might have been a little misleading earlier this week when we tweeted that we'd figured out how to fry salad. Well, I'm sorry. You can't actually fry salad, guys. That would be crazy. But this is about as close as you can get. As you bite into it, the crispy panko-crusted cheese crumbles and gives each bite a lovely, creamy crunch. Pair with sweet pears and strawberries and it's totally still healthy, right? That's how it works... Right?

You Will Need:

1 log goat cheese (chilled)

1 cup panko bread crumbs

1 tbsp oregano

1 tsp garlic powder

1 egg

1 pear

1 cup strawberries

3 tbsp olive oil

salad greens

In true Dearest Darling fashion, this recipe is completely customizable to your taste. We seasoned our panko with garlic and oregano, but any seasoning you like will do (a little brown sugar and cinnamon would be delicious as well!)

Begin by slicing your cheese into 1/2 disks. It's easiest to use unflavored dental floss (or a cheese slicer if you're really fancy), but a sharp knife will do - just wipe it clean after each slice. If your cheese crumbles, just smoosh (yes, smoosh) it back together to form semi-uniform size disks.

In a small bowl, combine your panko crumbs and seasoning. In a separate small bowl, scramble an egg. Carefully dip each disk in the egg and coat thoroughly in panko. When all of your disks are coated, return them to the refrigerator to chill for 10-15 minutes.

In the meantime, prepare your salad fixings. We loved the combination of pears and strawberries with the cheese, but you can use whatever your little heart desires. 

Meanwhile heat olive oil over medium heat. Carefully add each disk into the hot oil and brown for 2-3 minutes each side. These brown quickly, so keep an eye on them! When they're done, remove from heat and enjoy!