An elegant first course, slices of buttery gorgonzola and walnut terrine are served on a bed of crisp mixed greens, blanched haricot verts and fresh fruit gently tossed in a creamy vinaigrette and garnished with toast points.

Terrine of Wisconsin Gorgonzola

2 pounds (6 cups) Wisconsin Gorgonzola cheese, softened to room temperature
1 pound unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
2 cups walnut halves
1 tablespoon coarsely ground black pepper
1/4 cup sherry vinegar or red wine vinegar
1 egg yolk
3 teaspoons Dijon mustard
3/4 cup vegetable oil
1/4 cup olive oil
Salt and pepper
2 quarts (8 cups) torn assorted greens (Belgian endive, arugula, curly endive, salad Savoy, romaine)
1 cup blanched haricot verts or fresh thin green beans
2 cups assorted fresh fruit (kiwi slices, pear slices, raspberries, strawberry slices, tangerine sections)
6 slices bread, crusts trimmed, toasted, quartered diagonally

1. Combine cheese, butter, walnuts and ground pepper; mix well.
2. Line a 9x5-inch loaf pan with plastic wrap; pack with cheese mixture. Chill 4 hours or until firm.
3. Combine vinegar, egg yolk and mustard with wire whisk. Whisk in oils. Season to taste. Pour over greens and the haricot vert or green beans; toss lightly.
4. Cut terrine into 12 slices; place one slice at bottom of each dinner plate. Arrange greens above terrine; surround with fruit. Garnish with toast points.

Makes 12 servings.

Recipe provided courtesy of Wisconsin Milk Marketing Board, Inc.