Grilled Belgian Endive and Goat Cheese Salad

Introduction

This Grilled Belgian Endive and Goat Cheese Salad is smoky, creamy, nutty, and full of incredible textures. Grilled Belgian endives caramelize beautifully on the Arteflame grill, giving them a sweet and slightly smoky char that pairs perfectly with creamy goat cheese and crunchy walnuts. This dish is easy to make, full of gourmet flavor, and perfect as a side or a light meal.

Ingredients

• 4 Belgian endives, halved lengthwise
• 3 tbsp butter, melted
• 4 oz goat cheese, crumbled
• 1/3 cup walnuts, chopped
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh thyme for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins.
2. Place them in the center of the grill.
3. Stack firewood over the napkins.
4. Light the napkins and allow the fire to build.
5. Wait about 20 minutes for the cooktop to heat up.

Step 2: Prep the Belgian endives

1. Cut the Belgian endives in half lengthwise.
2. Brush melted butter on the cut sides.
3. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Grill the Belgian endives

1. Place the endives cut side down on the flat cooktop near the center for higher heat.
2. Grill for about 3-5 minutes until caramelized.
3. Flip them over and cook for another 3 minutes.

Step 4: Assemble the salad

1. Transfer grilled endives to a serving plate.
2. Crumble goat cheese on top.
3. Sprinkle chopped walnuts.
4. Drizzle with honey and balsamic vinegar.
5. Garnish with fresh thyme.

Tips

• For extra smokiness, grill the walnuts briefly.
• Make sure to use butter instead of oil for a richer flavor.
• Control heat by placing foods closer or further from the center of the cooktop.
• Remove the endives when they have nice grill marks to avoid overcooking.

Variations

• Blue Cheese Twist: Swap goat cheese for crumbled blue cheese for a more intense flavor.
• Citrus Infusion: Add orange or lemon zest for a refreshing citrus burst.
• Crunchy Croutons: Top with grilled baguette slices for an extra crunch.
• Meaty Upgrade: Add grilled prosciutto or bacon bits for a savory touch.
• Nutty Swap: Replace walnuts with toasted pecans or almonds.

Conclusion

This Grilled Belgian Endive and Goat Cheese Salad is the perfect combination of smoky, tangy, and crunchy elements. Grilled to perfection on the Arteflame grill, this dish is a gourmet-level treat that is surprisingly simple to make. Try one of the variations for a new twist on this classic.

Best Pairings

• A crisp dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc
• Grilled chicken or steak for added protein
• Warm crusty bread
• A light vinaigrette salad