🍄 Caramelized Mushroom Salad with Feta & Walnuts
A warm, savory-sweet salad featuring golden caramelized mushrooms, creamy feta, and crunchy toasted walnuts. Perfect as a light main, elegant side dish, or hearty topping for toasted sourdough.
📝 Ingredients (Serves 4)
- 500 g button or cremini mushrooms, cleaned and halved
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- 100 g feta cheese, crumbled
- 50 g walnuts, roughly chopped & toasted
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Pinch of red chili flakes (optional)
👩🍳 Instructions
1️⃣ Toast the Walnuts
- Heat a dry skillet over medium heat.
- Add chopped walnuts and toast for 3–4 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant and lightly golden.
- Remove and set aside.
2️⃣ Caramelize the Mushrooms
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add mushrooms in a single layer (avoid overcrowding).
- Cook undisturbed for 4–5 minutes to develop a deep golden sear.
- Stir and continue cooking another 4–5 minutes until browned and tender.
3️⃣ Add the Glaze
- Reduce heat to medium.
- Stir in balsamic vinegar and honey (or maple syrup).
- Cook for 2–3 minutes until the liquid reduces and coats the mushrooms in a glossy glaze.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
4️⃣ Assemble the Salad
- Transfer warm mushrooms to a serving bowl or platter.
- Sprinkle with crumbled feta and toasted walnuts.
- Finish with chopped parsley and a pinch of red chili flakes if desired.
Serve warm or at room temperature.
🌿 Description
This salad balances rich umami mushrooms with tangy balsamic glaze, creamy feta, and nutty crunch from toasted walnuts. It’s simple yet elegant — perfect for dinner parties or a nourishing weekday meal.
💡 Tips for Best Results
- Don’t overcrowd the pan — mushrooms need space to brown properly.
- Use high heat initially for better caramelization.
- Add a squeeze of fresh lemon at the end for extra brightness.
- Try adding baby arugula or spinach underneath for a fuller salad version.
🥗 Serving Suggestions
- Serve over mixed greens or arugula.
- Spoon over toasted sourdough or ciabatta.
- Pair with grilled chicken or steak for a protein-rich meal.
- Add cooked quinoa or farro to turn it into a hearty grain bowl.
🍽 Servings
Serves 4 as a side
Serves 2 as a light main
🔢 Estimated Nutritional Information (Per Serving – based on 4 servings)
- Calories: ~260 kcal
- Protein: 7–9 g
- Fat: 22 g
- Carbohydrates: 10–12 g
- Fiber: 2 g
(Values are approximate and may vary depending on ingredients used.)
🌟 Benefits
- Mushrooms are rich in antioxidants and B vitamins.
- Walnuts provide heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids.
- Feta adds calcium and protein.
- Naturally vegetarian and gluten-free.
❓ Q & A
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare mushrooms ahead and assemble just before serving for best texture.
Q: Can I use other mushrooms?
Absolutely — shiitake, portobello, or oyster mushrooms work beautifully.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently or enjoy at room temperature.
Q: Can I make it vegan?
Yes — replace feta with vegan feta or omit it entirely.