Autumn Harvest Salad with Pecan-Crusted Warm Goat Cheese Medallions! Fresh greens topped with apples, cranberries & baked goat cheese encrusted with pecans come together in the best autumn salad ever!
Make goat cheese medallions: Prepare a small baking pan by lining with foil or parchment. Set aside. In a small bowl, beat together egg and water. Set aside. Combine chopped pecans and bread crumbs on a small plate. Using a very sharp knife, slice the goat cheese into medallions, about ¼ inch in thickness.
Dip each medallion in the egg mixture, letting the excess drip off before dredging in the pecan and breadcrumb mixture. Firmly {but gently} pat down and shape into a round shape if needed, then place onto prepared baking pan. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or until very cold.
Meanwhile, prepare the vinaigrette: In a small bowl or a jar with a lid, combine olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, cinnamon, salt and pepper. Whisk or shake until emulsified
Pan fry the medallions: Add about a tablespoon of oil into a medium skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chilled medallions in the hot oil and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until the crust is golden and the cheese is warmed through.
Prepare salad: Pour the vinaigrette into the bottom of a large salad bowl. Top with greens and add the chopped apples, cranberries and pecans. Gently toss to coat and combine.
When ready to plate, top the salad with the warm goat cheese medallions.