Warm Chanterelle–and–Berry Salad with Cheddar

• Recipe by Eric Warnstedt

Because Vermont’s growing season is so short, Eric Warnstedt seizes on prime ingredients with remarkable gusto. Here, he takes advantage of chanterelle mushrooms and berries to create a simple but dazzling salad that he pairs with one of his favorite local cheeses, the artisanal, aged Cabot Clothbound Cheddar.

Ingredients

1. 6 tablespoons plus 1 teaspoon extra-virgin olive oil
2. 1/2 small sweet onion, sliced into 1/4-inch-thick rings
3. Salt and freshly ground pepper
4. 1 pound chanterelle or hedgehog mushrooms, stems trimmed and large mushrooms halved
5. 1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon red wine vinegar
6. 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
7. 3 cups baby arugula
8. 1 cup blackberries
9. 1 cup raspberries
10. Four 2-ounce pieces of Cabot Clothbound Cheddar

Directions

1. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil until shimmering. Add the onion rings, season with salt and pepper and cook over high heat until richly browned, about 2 minutes per side. Transfer the onion rings to a medium bowl.
2. Add 3 tablespoons of the olive oil to the skillet and when it is hot, add the chanterelles and season with salt and pepper. Cook over moderate heat until the liquid in the skillet has evaporated, about 7 minutes. Continue to cook over moderate heat, stirring occasionally, until the chanterelles are browned, about 5 minutes longer. Season with salt and pepper.
3. In a small bowl, combine the vinegar with the mustard and the remaining 2 tablespoons plus 1 teaspoon of olive oil; season the vinaigrette with salt and pepper. Add the arugula, blackberries and raspberries to the bowl with the onions. Add the chanterelles and the vinaigrette and toss well. Put a piece of cheddar on each plate. Divide the salad among the plates and serve.

Make Ahead

The onion and mushrooms can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 hours. Reheat gently before serving.