This brightly colored salad combines sweet taste of honey and pears with fresh raspberries, creamy goat cheese and a hint of vanilla. Blended together, these flavors are irresistible.

Fruity Leaf Salad with Goat Cheese and Walnuts

1/2 vanilla bean
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 tablespoon honey
1/4 teaspoon each salt and pepper
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
4 ounce goat cheese log
4 cups mixed salad greens
4 small pears, cored and sliced
1 cup raspberries
1 cup California Walnuts, toasted

1. Slice the vanilla bean in half lengthwise. Using the tip of the knife, remove seeds from the bean and whisk them together with the lemon, honey and salt and pepper. Gradually whisk in oil. Set aside.
2. Slice goat cheese into 4 pieces with dental floss or a very sharp knife. Arrange on a parchment-lined baking sheet and broil just until the edges start to melt, about 1 to 2 minutes.
3. In bowl, combine salad greens, pears and raspberries. Drizzle with dressing and toss to coat. Arrange salad over four plates, top with warm cheese and sprinkle with walnuts.

Makes 4 servings.

Recipe and photograph provided courtesy of California Walnuts.