The Pioneer Woman Tasty Kitchen
Profile photo of missamy

No-Bake Chocolate Cheesecake

Posted by in Step-by-Step Recipes

Tasty Kitchen Blog: No-Bake Chocolate Cheesecake. Guest post by Amy Johnson of She Wears Many Hats, recipe submitted by TK member Anna of Crunchy Creamy Sweet.

 
Can I tell you a secret? I’ve only made a real cheesecake once before. I was a nervous wreck waiting to see if it would crack, and wondering if I’d be able to loosen it from the pan without a total mess. It turned out just fine, but I’ve yet to make another since. I know, I’m silly. But I have been seeing a bunch of no-bake cheesecakes lately, served up in cute individual dishes. Up until last week I had yet to try a recipe for one myself, but then I discovered this recipe from Tasty Kitchen member, Anna, for a No-Bake Chocolate Cheesecake. This recipe has a little sumpin’ sumpin’ that tempted me to give it a go: a Biscoff cookie crust. Yes indeedy. Biscoff + chocolate? It had my name written all over it.

Fair warning: This is one rich and indulgent cheesecake. A small piece (about 1/12 of the whole) is the perfect serving size. My daughter said she wanted some whipped cream to top it with, but I think she’s lost her marbles. It was quite satisfying enough with a light dusting of cocoa powder. And the crust? Wow. Totally a crust that will be used for other desserts in the future.

Want to see how it goes together?

 
 
 
Tasty Kitchen Blog: No-Bake Chocolate Cheesecake. Guest post by Amy Johnson of She Wears Many Hats, recipe submitted by TK member Anna of Crunchy Creamy Sweet.

You’ll need: Biscoff cookies, cocoa powder, melted butter, cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla, bittersweet chocolate, semisweet chocolate, whipping cream, and more cocoa powder for dusting. (The recipe calls for chopped chocolate, but I used a combo of both bittersweet chocolate chips and semisweet chocolate chips, which worked quite nicely.)

 
 
 
Tasty Kitchen Blog: No-Bake Chocolate Cheesecake. Guest post by Amy Johnson of She Wears Many Hats, recipe submitted by TK member Anna of Crunchy Creamy Sweet.

For the crust, combine the cookie crumbs, 4 tablespoons cocoa powder, and butter.

 
 
 
Tasty Kitchen Blog: No-Bake Chocolate Cheesecake. Guest post by Amy Johnson of She Wears Many Hats, recipe submitted by TK member Anna of Crunchy Creamy Sweet.

Firmly press in bottom of a springform pan. I like to use a flat-bottomed glass to evenly press the crust out. Once the crust is ready, set aside.

I almost decided on individual serving dishes to avoid the worry of whether or not it would loosen from the pan, but opted for the whole cheesecake route with no trouble whatsoever. This recipe could easily be prepared using individual servings, but just remember, it’s very rich, so you may want to make the servings on the small side.

 
 
 
Tasty Kitchen Blog: No-Bake Chocolate Cheesecake. Guest post by Amy Johnson of She Wears Many Hats, recipe submitted by TK member Anna of Crunchy Creamy Sweet.

Now for the chocolate cream cheese goodness. Begin by beating the cream cheese until smooth.

 
 
 
Tasty Kitchen Blog: No-Bake Chocolate Cheesecake. Guest post by Amy Johnson of She Wears Many Hats, recipe submitted by TK member Anna of Crunchy Creamy Sweet.

Next add the powdered sugar, beat well, and then the vanilla.

 
 
 
Tasty Kitchen Blog: No-Bake Chocolate Cheesecake. Guest post by Amy Johnson of She Wears Many Hats, recipe submitted by TK member Anna of Crunchy Creamy Sweet.

Combine all well until smooth.

 
 
 
Tasty Kitchen Blog: No-Bake Chocolate Cheesecake. Guest post by Amy Johnson of She Wears Many Hats, recipe submitted by TK member Anna of Crunchy Creamy Sweet.

Over a double boiler (or like me, use a glass bowl that sits nicely over a pot), melt the chopped chocolate. Once the chocolate is melted (sorry, no melty chocolate picture) let it cool slightly. Once cooled, gradually stream the melted chocolate into the cream cheese mixture.

 
 
 
Tasty Kitchen Blog: No-Bake Chocolate Cheesecake. Guest post by Amy Johnson of She Wears Many Hats, recipe submitted by TK member Anna of Crunchy Creamy Sweet.

Mix slowly until combined well. Try not to eat it all with a spoon at this point. Restraint is a good thing.

 
 
 
Tasty Kitchen Blog: No-Bake Chocolate Cheesecake. Guest post by Amy Johnson of She Wears Many Hats, recipe submitted by TK member Anna of Crunchy Creamy Sweet.

In a separate bowl, whip the cream until soft peaks form.

 
 
 
Tasty Kitchen Blog: No-Bake Chocolate Cheesecake. Guest post by Amy Johnson of She Wears Many Hats, recipe submitted by TK member Anna of Crunchy Creamy Sweet.

Gently fold the whipped cream into the chocolate cream cheese mixture.

 
 
 
Tasty Kitchen Blog: No-Bake Chocolate Cheesecake. Guest post by Amy Johnson of She Wears Many Hats, recipe submitted by TK member Anna of Crunchy Creamy Sweet.

Take your time mixing the whipped cream into the chocolate cream cheese mixture until combined. You don’t want to overbeat the mixture or the whipped cream won’t be whippy any more.

 
 
 
Tasty Kitchen Blog: No-Bake Chocolate Cheesecake. Guest post by Amy Johnson of She Wears Many Hats, recipe submitted by TK member Anna of Crunchy Creamy Sweet.

Now you’re ready to fill the springform pan. Add the chocolate cream cheese mixture to the prepared Biscoff crust and spread until smooth and even. Chill covered at least 8 hours in a refrigerator until set.

 
 
 
Tasty Kitchen Blog: No-Bake Chocolate Cheesecake. Guest post by Amy Johnson of She Wears Many Hats, recipe submitted by TK member Anna of Crunchy Creamy Sweet.

Once set, carefully loosen the springform pan to release the cake.

 
 
 
Tasty Kitchen Blog: No-Bake Chocolate Cheesecake. Guest post by Amy Johnson of She Wears Many Hats, recipe submitted by TK member Anna of Crunchy Creamy Sweet.

Serve, dusted lightly with remaining cocoa powder, and enjoy! And if you like Biscoff cookies and chocolate, you will most definitely enjoy.

A big thanks to Anna for introducing me to this no-bake cheesecake option. You can check out Anna’s other creations at her site, Crunchy Creamy Sweet.

 
 

Printable Recipe

No-Bake Chocolate Cheesecake

See post on Anna’s site!
5.00 Mitt(s) 4 Rating(s)4 votes, average: 5.00 out of 54 votes, average: 5.00 out of 54 votes, average: 5.00 out of 54 votes, average: 5.00 out of 54 votes, average: 5.00 out of 5

Prep Time:

Cook Time:

Difficulty: Easy

Servings: 12

12
x

Print Options

Page size Letter 3x5 4x6
Text Size Small Medium Large
Content Include description
Include prep time, etc.
Show image

Description

Biscoff cookies crust and creamy chocolate filling make this decadent dessert. No oven required, which makes it perfect for summer!

Ingredients

  • 7 ounces, weight Crushed Biscoff Cookies
  • 4 Tablespoons Unsweetened Cocoa Powder
  • ¼ cups Butter, Melted
  • 16 ounces, weight Cream Cheese, Softened
  • 3-¾ ounces, weight Powdered Sugar
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
  • 5-¼ ounces, weight Bittersweet Chocolate, Chopped
  • 5-¼ ounces, weight Semisweet Chocolate, Chopped
  • ½ pints Whipping Cream
  • ¼ cups Unsweetened Cocoa Powder, For Dusting

Preparation Instructions

In a medium mixing bowl, stir together cookie crumbs, cocoa powder and butter. Stir until all combined. Press firmly onto the bottom of a springform pan. Set aside.

In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese for 1 minute, until smooth. Add powdered sugar and beat again. Add vanilla extract and mix again.

Melt chocolate over a double boiler. Let cool slightly. With your mixer on slow speed, add the chocolate into the cream cheese mixture, pouring slowly.

Whip the cream until stiff peaks form. Fold in gently to chocolate and cheese mixture.

Pour the filling over the crust. Refrigerate for at least 8 hours, preferably overnight.

When the cheesecake is set, run a sharp knife around the edge to loosen from the pan. Gently open the latch and release the cheesecake.

Before serving, dust with cocoa powder and garnish.

 
 
_______________________________________

Amy Johnson is a blogger who writes about food, travel, the home (both inside and out), and various observations and random musings about anything and everything. Visit her blog She Wears Many Hats for a dose of deliciousness, practicality, hilarity, or just plain fun. She lives in South Carolina with her husband and two children.

 

Profile photo of georgiapellegrini

Kung Pao Chicken

Posted by in Step-by-Step Recipes

Tasty Kitchen Blog: Authentic Kung Pao Chicken. Guest post by Georgia Pellegrini, recipe submitted by TK member Becky of The Vintage Mixer.

 
I never imagined myself making Authentic Kung Pao Chicken with such ease in my home kitchen. But I did, thanks to Becky (The Vintage Mixer) and this delicious yet easy recipe.

 
 
 
Tasty Kitchen Blog: Authentic Kung Pao Chicken. Guest post by Georgia Pellegrini, recipe submitted by TK member Becky of The Vintage Mixer.

To stir this up, you will need: chicken breasts, salt, cornstarch, soy sauce (I used liquid aminos), peanuts, cooking oil, carrot, Chinese lettuce root or celery (I used bok choy), Chinese oyster sauce or fish sauce, sugar, sesame oil, and Sichuan hot pepper paste.

 
 
 
Tasty Kitchen Blog: Authentic Kung Pao Chicken. Guest post by Georgia Pellegrini, recipe submitted by TK member Becky of The Vintage Mixer.

Once the chicken has been diced, sprinkle it with a bit of cornstarch or flour, which will help it brown and thicken the sauce.

 
 
 
Tasty Kitchen Blog: Authentic Kung Pao Chicken. Guest post by Georgia Pellegrini, recipe submitted by TK member Becky of The Vintage Mixer.

Add the soy sauce next to give it some flavor.

 
 
 
Tasty Kitchen Blog: Authentic Kung Pao Chicken. Guest post by Georgia Pellegrini, recipe submitted by TK member Becky of The Vintage Mixer.

Stir it and let it marinate.

 
 
 
Tasty Kitchen Blog: Authentic Kung Pao Chicken. Guest post by Georgia Pellegrini, recipe submitted by TK member Becky of The Vintage Mixer.

Meanwhile, toast your peanuts, or in my case, pistachios! That’s what I had on hand and I love ‘em so I went for it.

 
 
 
Tasty Kitchen Blog: Authentic Kung Pao Chicken. Guest post by Georgia Pellegrini, recipe submitted by TK member Becky of The Vintage Mixer.

Once the nuts have been browned, remove them from the heat and brown the chicken in the skillet.

 
 
 
Tasty Kitchen Blog: Authentic Kung Pao Chicken. Guest post by Georgia Pellegrini, recipe submitted by TK member Becky of The Vintage Mixer.

Cook and turn until browned on all sides, then remove to a plate with a slotted spoon.

 
 
 
Tasty Kitchen Blog: Authentic Kung Pao Chicken. Guest post by Georgia Pellegrini, recipe submitted by TK member Becky of The Vintage Mixer.

Next add the carrots until they are browned.

 
 
 
Tasty Kitchen Blog: Authentic Kung Pao Chicken. Guest post by Georgia Pellegrini, recipe submitted by TK member Becky of The Vintage Mixer.

Then toss in your celery, lettuce root, or in my case, sliced bok choy!

 
 
 
Tasty Kitchen Blog: Authentic Kung Pao Chicken. Guest post by Georgia Pellegrini, recipe submitted by TK member Becky of The Vintage Mixer.

Saute them well on high heat.

 
 
 
Tasty Kitchen Blog: Authentic Kung Pao Chicken. Guest post by Georgia Pellegrini, recipe submitted by TK member Becky of The Vintage Mixer.

Return the chicken to the pan and stir it together.

 
 
 
Tasty Kitchen Blog: Authentic Kung Pao Chicken. Guest post by Georgia Pellegrini, recipe submitted by TK member Becky of The Vintage Mixer.

Add the pistachios and stir them in as well.

 
 
 
Tasty Kitchen Blog: Authentic Kung Pao Chicken. Guest post by Georgia Pellegrini, recipe submitted by TK member Becky of The Vintage Mixer.

Then add the flavorings: oyster or fish sauce …

 
 
 
Tasty Kitchen Blog: Authentic Kung Pao Chicken. Guest post by Georgia Pellegrini, recipe submitted by TK member Becky of The Vintage Mixer.

A dash of sugar …

 
 
 
Tasty Kitchen Blog: Authentic Kung Pao Chicken. Guest post by Georgia Pellegrini, recipe submitted by TK member Becky of The Vintage Mixer.

Sesame oil …

 
 
 
Tasty Kitchen Blog: Authentic Kung Pao Chicken. Guest post by Georgia Pellegrini, recipe submitted by TK member Becky of The Vintage Mixer.

Garlic chili paste …

 
 
 
Tasty Kitchen Blog: Authentic Kung Pao Chicken. Guest post by Georgia Pellegrini, recipe submitted by TK member Becky of The Vintage Mixer.

And let it all simmer so that the flavors combine.

 
 
 
Tasty Kitchen Blog: Authentic Kung Pao Chicken. Guest post by Georgia Pellegrini, recipe submitted by TK member Becky of The Vintage Mixer.

You will love this dish! It was just as tasty as takeout.

Thank you Becky for this glorious dish! Be sure to check out her website Vintage Mixer for some more beautiful looking recipes.

 
 

Printable Recipe

Authentic Kung Pao Chicken

See post on The Vintage Mixer’s site!
4.00 Mitt(s) 2 Rating(s)2 votes, average: 4.00 out of 52 votes, average: 4.00 out of 52 votes, average: 4.00 out of 52 votes, average: 4.00 out of 52 votes, average: 4.00 out of 5

Prep Time:

Cook Time:

Difficulty: Easy

Servings: 4

4
x

Print Options

Page size Letter 3x5 4x6
Text Size Small Medium Large
Content Include description
Include prep time, etc.
Show image

Description

After my recent adventure traveling to China, I brought back one of America’s favorite Chinese recipes that I’m excited to share with you. It was taught to me by a local Chinese chef in the city of Kunming.

Ingredients

  • 3 whole Chicken Breasts, Diced
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 1 teaspoon Cornstarch
  • 1 dash Soy Sauce
  • ½ cups Peanuts
  • 1 whole Carrot
  • ¼ cups Cooking Oil
  • 1 whole Carrot, Diced
  • 1 stalk Chinese Lettuce Root Or Celery
  • 3 Tablespoons Chinese Oyster Sauce
  • 1 Tablespoon Sugar
  • ½ teaspoons Sesame Oil
  • 1 teaspoon Sichuan Hot Pepper Paste

Preparation Instructions

In a small bowl, combine diced chicken, salt, cornstarch, and soy sauce. Mix thoroughly and let sit a few minutes. Meanwhile, dry-roast the peanuts. Heat a wok or skillet to medium high heat and add peanuts, tossing occasionally till peanuts begin to “pop.” Reduce heat to medium/low and continue to roast 3-4 more minutes. These peanuts can be crushed or added whole to the stir-fry (later).

Heat cooking oil in the wok or skillet over medium/ high heat till oil begins to ripple or shimmer. Add chicken and stir-fry 2-3 minutes, then remove chicken only using a slotted spoon so the oil stays in wok. Add carrots and lettuce root and stir-fry 1-2 minutes till just beginning to turn tender-crisp. Return chicken to the pot and add peanuts (crushed or whole), oyster sauce, sugar, sesame oil, and hot pepper paste if you want the dish to be spicy. Add a little water to thin the sauce if desired. Stir to mix, then allow sauce to come to a boil. Stir again and serve.

 
 
_______________________________________

There’s so much to say about Georgia, we don’t know where to start. Leaving Wall Street for the French Culinary Institute, followed by a stint at the Gramercy Tavern and La Chassagnette in France, her passion for food and food traditions are evident and inspiring. Visit her site at Georgia Pellegrini, where you’ll find more recipes, photos, learn all about her wonderful books Girl Hunter and Food Heroes, and enjoy her latest adventures.

 
 

Profile photo of twopeasandtheirpod

Chocolate Chunk Cookie Dough Frozen Yogurt

Posted by in Step-by-Step Recipes

Tasty Kitchen Blog: Chocolate Chunk Cookie Dough Frozen Yogurt. Guest post by Maria Lichty of Two Peas and Their Pod, recipe submitted by TK member Anna of Crunchy Creamy Sweet.

 
Cookies are my all time favorite dessert, that is no secret. Well, my second favorite dessert is frozen yogurt. So when I saw Anna’s recipe for Chocolate Chunk Cookie Dough Frozen Yogurt my eyes almost popped out of my head. My two favorite treats combined in one recipe—a dream come true! And the best part? You don’t even need an ice cream maker to make this dreamy frozen yogurt. It is so easy to make! The hardest part is letting it chill in the freezer. I am not patient, especially when desserts are involved. But I promise this Chocolate Chunk Cookie Dough Frozen Yogurt is well worth the wait! 

 
 
 
Tasty Kitchen Blog: Chocolate Chunk Cookie Dough Frozen Yogurt. Guest post by Maria Lichty of Two Peas and Their Pod, recipe submitted by TK member Anna of Crunchy Creamy Sweet.

Let’s get started! To make it, you will need: butter, dark brown sugar, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, flour, baking soda, salt, chocolate chips or chunks, and vanilla yogurt. 

 
 
 
Tasty Kitchen Blog: Chocolate Chunk Cookie Dough Frozen Yogurt. Guest post by Maria Lichty of Two Peas and Their Pod, recipe submitted by TK member Anna of Crunchy Creamy Sweet.

In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the butter and sugars. 

 
 
 
Tasty Kitchen Blog: Chocolate Chunk Cookie Dough Frozen Yogurt. Guest post by Maria Lichty of Two Peas and Their Pod, recipe submitted by TK member Anna of Crunchy Creamy Sweet.

Beat until light and fluffy. 

 
 
 
Tasty Kitchen Blog: Chocolate Chunk Cookie Dough Frozen Yogurt. Guest post by Maria Lichty of Two Peas and Their Pod, recipe submitted by TK member Anna of Crunchy Creamy Sweet.

Add the vanilla extract and mix until smooth.

 
 
 
Tasty Kitchen Blog: Chocolate Chunk Cookie Dough Frozen Yogurt. Guest post by Maria Lichty of Two Peas and Their Pod, recipe submitted by TK member Anna of Crunchy Creamy Sweet.

In a small mixing bowl, combine flour and baking soda.

 
 
 
Tasty Kitchen Blog: Chocolate Chunk Cookie Dough Frozen Yogurt. Guest post by Maria Lichty of Two Peas and Their Pod, recipe submitted by TK member Anna of Crunchy Creamy Sweet.

Add in the salt. 

 
 
 
Tasty Kitchen Blog: Chocolate Chunk Cookie Dough Frozen Yogurt. Guest post by Maria Lichty of Two Peas and Their Pod, recipe submitted by TK member Anna of Crunchy Creamy Sweet.

Whisk all of the dry ingredients together. 

 
 
 
Tasty Kitchen Blog: Chocolate Chunk Cookie Dough Frozen Yogurt. Guest post by Maria Lichty of Two Peas and Their Pod, recipe submitted by TK member Anna of Crunchy Creamy Sweet.

Add the chocolate chips and stir. 

 
 
 
Tasty Kitchen Blog: Chocolate Chunk Cookie Dough Frozen Yogurt. Guest post by Maria Lichty of Two Peas and Their Pod, recipe submitted by TK member Anna of Crunchy Creamy Sweet.

Add the flour and chocolate chip mixture to the butter mixture and fold gently. 

 
 
 
Tasty Kitchen Blog: Chocolate Chunk Cookie Dough Frozen Yogurt. Guest post by Maria Lichty of Two Peas and Their Pod, recipe submitted by TK member Anna of Crunchy Creamy Sweet.

Stir until combined. 

 
 
 
Tasty Kitchen Blog: Chocolate Chunk Cookie Dough Frozen Yogurt. Guest post by Maria Lichty of Two Peas and Their Pod, recipe submitted by TK member Anna of Crunchy Creamy Sweet.

Add the yogurt. 

 
 
 
Tasty Kitchen Blog: Chocolate Chunk Cookie Dough Frozen Yogurt. Guest post by Maria Lichty of Two Peas and Their Pod, recipe submitted by TK member Anna of Crunchy Creamy Sweet.

Stir until smooth. 

 
 
 
Tasty Kitchen Blog: Chocolate Chunk Cookie Dough Frozen Yogurt. Guest post by Maria Lichty of Two Peas and Their Pod, recipe submitted by TK member Anna of Crunchy Creamy Sweet.

Place in a container and cover with a lid. Freeze until set, preferably overnight. 

 
 
 
Tasty Kitchen Blog: Chocolate Chunk Cookie Dough Frozen Yogurt. Guest post by Maria Lichty of Two Peas and Their Pod, recipe submitted by TK member Anna of Crunchy Creamy Sweet.

Remove from the freezer and serve. 

 
 
 
Tasty Kitchen Blog: Chocolate Chunk Cookie Dough Frozen Yogurt. Guest post by Maria Lichty of Two Peas and Their Pod, recipe submitted by TK member Anna of Crunchy Creamy Sweet.

Enjoy! 

 
 
 
Tasty Kitchen Blog: Chocolate Chunk Cookie Dough Frozen Yogurt. Guest post by Maria Lichty of Two Peas and Their Pod, recipe submitted by TK member Anna of Crunchy Creamy Sweet.

The frozen yogurt is rich, creamy, and oh so sweet. It tastes just like cookie dough but in frozen form. I love how simple it is to make. I am going to have to keep our freezer stocked with this frozen yogurt! It is the perfect cool-down treat for a hot summer day. 

Thanks Anna for sharing your Chocolate Chunk Cookie Dough Frozen Yogurt. I am off to eat another scoop now! Make sure you visit Anna’s blog Crunchy Creamy Sweet for other fun and delicious recipes!
 
 
 

Printable Recipe

Chocolate Chunk Cookie Dough Frozen Yogurt

See post on Anna’s site!
5.00 Mitt(s) 8 Rating(s)8 votes, average: 5.00 out of 58 votes, average: 5.00 out of 58 votes, average: 5.00 out of 58 votes, average: 5.00 out of 58 votes, average: 5.00 out of 5

Prep Time:

Cook Time:

Difficulty: Easy

Servings: 4

4
x

Print Options

Page size Letter 3x5 4x6
Text Size Small Medium Large
Content Include description
Include prep time, etc.
Show image

Description

Your favorite cookie dough meets frozen yogurt for a perfect treat on a hot day!

Ingredients

  • ½ cups Unsalted Butter, Softened
  • ½ cups Packed Dark Brown Sugar
  • ¼ cups Granulated Sugar
  • 2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract
  • 1 cup All-purpose Flour
  • ¼ teaspoons Baking Soda
  • ¼ teaspoons Salt
  • ¾ cups Mini Chocolate Chips Or Chunks
  • 1 cup Vanilla Yogurt

Preparation Instructions

In a mixing bowl of a stand mixer, beat the butter and both sugars together until light and fluffy. Add vanilla and beat until combined.

In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, soda and salt. Add the chocolate chips or chunks and stir.

Add the flour and chocolate mixture to butter mixture and fold in gently. Add yogurt and stir again.

Place in a container and cover with lid. Freeze until set, preferably overnight.

Cookie dough recipe adapted from Better Homes and Gardens Bridal Edition Cookbook.

Makes about 2 cups.

 
 
_______________________________________

Maria and her husband Josh (who she affectionately refers to as her “dough boy”) blog at Two Peas and Their Pod. They’ve been featured on Saveur, Eatocracy, Gourmet Live, Glamour, and the Los Angeles Times, to name just a few. They’d also just recently added a little pea to their pod. We’re so glad to have them here!

 

Profile photo of Erica Lea

Spring Greens with Pears, Sugared Walnuts & Gorgonzola

Posted by in Step-by-Step Recipes

Tasty Kitchen Blog: Spring Greens with Pears, Sugared Walnuts & Gorgonzola. Guest post by Erica Kastner, recipe submitted by TK member Jennifer of Jennifer Cooks.

 
I don’t know about you guys, but to me an iceberg + ranch dressing salad is so blasé. I prefer my salad with a bit of pizzazz.

Thus, when I saw Jennifer’s recipe for a mix of spring greens, pears, sugared walnuts and gorgonzola, I was very much excited to give it a go. The list of ingredients was just different enough to make it interesting but familiar enough to make it appetizing.

Let me show you how to throw (or toss) it together!

 
 
 
Tasty Kitchen Blog: Spring Greens with Pears, Sugared Walnuts & Gorgonzola. Guest post by Erica Kastner, recipe submitted by TK member Jennifer of Jennifer Cooks.

First off, these are the things you’ll need: spring salad greens (or any type of lettuce you prefer), red pear, fresh herbs of choice (I left these out), gorgonzola, walnut halves, white sugar, brown sugar, extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar (I used pomegranate-infused), ground mustard, salt and garlic powder.

 
 
 
Tasty Kitchen Blog: Spring Greens with Pears, Sugared Walnuts & Gorgonzola. Guest post by Erica Kastner, recipe submitted by TK member Jennifer of Jennifer Cooks.

Begin by sugaring the walnuts: Over medium heat, sauté the walnuts with white and brown sugars. Stir often.

 
 
 
Tasty Kitchen Blog: Spring Greens with Pears, Sugared Walnuts & Gorgonzola. Guest post by Erica Kastner, recipe submitted by TK member Jennifer of Jennifer Cooks.

The sugars will begin to melt after a few minutes. When the walnuts are toasty, light brown and covered with the melted sugar, they’re done.

 
 
 
Tasty Kitchen Blog: Spring Greens with Pears, Sugared Walnuts & Gorgonzola. Guest post by Erica Kastner, recipe submitted by TK member Jennifer of Jennifer Cooks.

Remove to wax paper (I used parchment) and allow to cool.

 
 
 
Tasty Kitchen Blog: Spring Greens with Pears, Sugared Walnuts & Gorgonzola. Guest post by Erica Kastner, recipe submitted by TK member Jennifer of Jennifer Cooks.

Now make the salad dressing: In a small jar place the olive oil, red wine vinegar, sugar, salt …

 
 
 
Tasty Kitchen Blog: Spring Greens with Pears, Sugared Walnuts & Gorgonzola. Guest post by Erica Kastner, recipe submitted by TK member Jennifer of Jennifer Cooks.

And garlic powder.

 
 
 
Tasty Kitchen Blog: Spring Greens with Pears, Sugared Walnuts & Gorgonzola. Guest post by Erica Kastner, recipe submitted by TK member Jennifer of Jennifer Cooks.

Screw on the lid and shake like mad until well combined.

 
 
 
Tasty Kitchen Blog: Spring Greens with Pears, Sugared Walnuts & Gorgonzola. Guest post by Erica Kastner, recipe submitted by TK member Jennifer of Jennifer Cooks.

Thinly slice your pear.

 
 
 
Tasty Kitchen Blog: Spring Greens with Pears, Sugared Walnuts & Gorgonzola. Guest post by Erica Kastner, recipe submitted by TK member Jennifer of Jennifer Cooks.

Now it’s time to assemble your salad. Put your greens in a bowl.

 
 
 
Tasty Kitchen Blog: Spring Greens with Pears, Sugared Walnuts & Gorgonzola. Guest post by Erica Kastner, recipe submitted by TK member Jennifer of Jennifer Cooks.

Add the sliced pears …

 
 
 
Tasty Kitchen Blog: Spring Greens with Pears, Sugared Walnuts & Gorgonzola. Guest post by Erica Kastner, recipe submitted by TK member Jennifer of Jennifer Cooks.

Sugared walnuts …

 
 
 
Tasty Kitchen Blog: Spring Greens with Pears, Sugared Walnuts & Gorgonzola. Guest post by Erica Kastner, recipe submitted by TK member Jennifer of Jennifer Cooks.

Homemade salad dressing …

 
 
 
Tasty Kitchen Blog: Spring Greens with Pears, Sugared Walnuts & Gorgonzola. Guest post by Erica Kastner, recipe submitted by TK member Jennifer of Jennifer Cooks.

And gorgonzola cheese.

 
 
 
Tasty Kitchen Blog: Spring Greens with Pears, Sugared Walnuts & Gorgonzola. Guest post by Erica Kastner, recipe submitted by TK member Jennifer of Jennifer Cooks.

Isn’t that prettiest thing you ever did see?

 
 
 
Tasty Kitchen Blog: Spring Greens with Pears, Sugared Walnuts & Gorgonzola. Guest post by Erica Kastner, recipe submitted by TK member Jennifer of Jennifer Cooks.

Recipe Notes:

1. Because I wasn’t taking this salad to a large gathering, I only fixed myself a small bowl. If you want to mix up a big bowl, I would suggest not adding the toppings until just before serving.
2. I thought the vinaigrette was lovely, but Reuben thought it was a bit sour. You could decrease the amount of vinegar if you prefer a milder dressing. 

 
Thanks so much to Jennifer for sharing this lovely recipe with us. Make sure to check out her blog, Jennifer Cooks, for many more recipes. Her Greek Tostados have my mouth watering.

 
 

Printable Recipe

See post on Jennifer | JenniferCooks.com’s site!
5.00 Mitt(s) 8 Rating(s)8 votes, average: 5.00 out of 58 votes, average: 5.00 out of 58 votes, average: 5.00 out of 58 votes, average: 5.00 out of 58 votes, average: 5.00 out of 5

Prep Time:

Cook Time:

Difficulty: Easy

Servings: 4

4
x

Print Options

Page size Letter 3x5 4x6
Text Size Small Medium Large
Content Include description
Include prep time, etc.
Show image

Description

I love all kinds of salad and this one is no exception! I also love gorgonzola and bleu cheese.

Ingredients

  • 6 cups Spring Mix Salad Greens
  • 2 whole Red Pears, Cored And Thinly Sliced
  • Your Choice Of Fresh Herbs, To Taste (optional)
  • 8 ounces, weight Gorgonzola Cheese, Coarsely Crumbled
  • 1 cup Walnut Halves
  • 2 Tablespoons White Sugar
  • 2 Tablespoons Brown Sugar
  • _____
  • FOR THE DRESSING:
  • ½ cups Oil
  • ⅓ cups Red Wine Vinegar
  • 2 Tablespoons Sugar
  • ½ teaspoons Ground Mustard
  • ½ teaspoons Salt
  • ¼ teaspoons Garlic Powder

Preparation Instructions

Salad: Combine spring greens, pears and herbs (if desired) in a large salad bowl. Top with cooled sugared walnuts.

Right before serving, toss salad with desired amount of dressing. Add gorgonzola crumbles at the very last, tossing lightly to incorporate into the salad.

Sugared walnuts: In a small pan, saute walnuts and white and brown sugar over medium heat until walnuts are caramelized, stirring often (they will be light brown and coated with melted sugar), approximately 4-6 minutes. Spread the walnuts on foil or waxed paper. After they cool, break apart.

For the dressing: Combine oil, vinegar, sugar, mustard, salt and garlic powder in a jar or container with a lid and shake well. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss.

 
 
_______________________________________

Newly-married Erica Kastner shares her wonderful recipes and amazing food photography on her blog, Cooking for Seven. She also writes about crafts and posts more of her beautiful photography in her personal blog, EricaLea.com. There really isn’t much that this amazing young lady can’t do, and we’re thrilled she does some of it here.

 

Profile photo of georgiapellegrini

Chipotle and Lime Roasted Potatoes

Posted by in Step-by-Step Recipes

  In summertime, when the temperatures are especially hot, I’m always looking for dishes that work well at room temperature, as well as recipes that offer a twist on your classic summer dishes. This bowl of Chipotle and Lime Roasted Potatoes from Tasty Kitchen member Meredith of Cooking In Sock Monkey Slippers was just that. […]

Profile photo of whatsgabycooking

Coconut Granola

Posted by in Step-by-Step Recipes

  I’m the kind of person who really likes to snack. I’m talking about a handful of something fabulous every 30 minutes or so. I keep telling myself it’s because I get grumpy if I don’t eat, but really, I just like snacking. There’s nothing wrong with that right? Granola is one of those snacks […]

Profile photo of georgiapellegrini

Homemade Almond Milk

Posted by in Step-by-Step Recipes

  One thing that is pretty much always in my refrigerator is almond milk. I love the nuttiness of the plain and vanilla flavors. And the chocolate almond milk? There’s just nothing like it in a tall glass of iced coffee. And even though I love making many things from scratch, it just never occurred […]

Profile photo of Amber {Sprinkled With Flour}

Chipotle Grilled Chicken Tacos

Posted by in Step-by-Step Recipes

  I have a sweet tooth, let’s call her … Shugar (with an h). Shugar frequently compels me to make all manner of cakes, cookies, pies—you get the drift. However, I also have a spicy tooth. (Is that a real term? I’m not sure, but I’m going with it.) Let’s call him … Pepper Jack. You’ll […]