Goat Cheese Salad with Pancetta, Dried Cherries and Port Dressing

Step 1

Combine cherries and pour port in a small pan. Bring to simmer over medium heat. Remove from heat and let stand until cherries swell, about 15 mins.

Step 2

Saute pancetta in heavy large skillet over medium-low heat until crisp, about 8 mins. Add shallots and garlic; cook 2 mins. Add oil, then vinegar and sugar stir until sugar dissolves. Stir in cherry mixture. Season with salt and pepper. (Dressing can be made 2 hours ahead. Serve from skillet at room temperature.)

Step 3

Preheat oven 350 F. Place goat cheese slices on rimmed baking sheet. Bake until warm, about10 mins. Meanwhile, combine salad greens and pine nuts in bowl. Rewarm dressing and pour over salad; toss then top with warm goat cheese and serve.