Almond-Crusted Goat Cheese over Mixed Greens

Serves 6

• 2 (4-ounce) fresh goat cheese logs
• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon water
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
• 1/2 cup sliced almonds, lightly toasted
• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided
• 18 ounces mixed (about 1 1/2 cups per serving) baby greens
• 2 tablespoons aged balsamic vinegar, to taste

Preheat oven to 350°F. Cut each goat cheese log into 5 slices. Whisk egg with water in a small bowl. Mix flour, salt and pepper in another bowl. Place almonds in a third shallow bowl. Roll goat cheese slices in flour mixture and shake off excess. Then dip into egg mixture and roll in almonds to coat, pressing gently to adhere.

Place coated goat cheese on a greased baking sheet and drizzle with a tablespoon of the olive oil. Bake 10 to 12 minutes, until cheese is softened and sizzling. Allow goat cheese to cool a few minutes.

To serve, divide greens between six salad plates. Place 1 or 2 warm cheese slices on each plate. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar.

Nutrition Info

Per serving (About 5.5oz/156g-wt.): 250 calories (170 from fat), 19g total fat, 7g saturated fat, 12g protein, 10g total carbohydrate (3g dietary fiber, 3g sugar), 55mg cholesterol, 270mg sodium