Imagine a salad so vibrant, it practically dances off the plate. That’s what you get with an arugula salad—peppery greens tossed with fresh fruits, nuts, and a zesty dressing that’ll make your taste buds sing. The crunch of walnuts, the sweetness of ripe pears, and the tang of feta cheese create a delightful symphony of flavors that just might make you forget about that steak dinner you had planned.
Growing up, my family had a tradition of hosting summer barbecues where this arugula salad was always the star. It became a staple at our gatherings, bringing everyone together over delicious food and hearty laughter. Picture this: cousins fighting for the last spoonful while we all share ridiculous stories and inside jokes. As summer approaches, I can’t help but feel excitement at the thought of making this refreshing dish again.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This arugula salad is incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- The flavor combination is unforgettable, with each bite bursting with freshness
- Its vibrant colors will brighten up any table setting and impress your guests
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to be enjoyed as a side or main dish!
There was that one time when my cousin decided to add way too much balsamic vinegar to the mix. Let’s just say the salad took a dive into “vinegary disaster” territory. Still, we laughed it off and learned that moderation is key—even in salads!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Arugula: Fresh arugula gives this salad its signature peppery flavor. Look for crisp leaves without wilting.
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Fresh Pears: Choose ripe pears for natural sweetness; they contrast beautifully with arugula’s spice.
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Walnuts: Toasted walnuts add crunchy texture and nutty flavor; be careful not to burn them!
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Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta introduces creaminess and a salty kick; go for high-quality cheese for best results.
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Balsamic Vinegar: A good quality balsamic elevates this salad’s dressing; opt for thick and syrupy varieties.
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Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil enhances flavor; use it generously for rich depth.
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Honey: A drizzle of honey balances the acidity in the dressing; adjust according to your taste preferences.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Start by prepping your ingredients: Wash the arugula thoroughly under cold water until clean. Spin dry using a salad spinner or pat gently with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper until emulsified. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Toss in the Arugula: In a large mixing bowl, add arugula leaves first before drizzling half of your dressing over them. Gently toss using tongs until well coated.
Add Fruits and Nuts: Slice pears thinly and add them to the bowl along with toasted walnuts. Sprinkle crumbled feta on top for added richness.
Final Toss: Drizzle remaining dressing over salad ingredients then toss gently again to combine all flavors harmoniously without bruising delicate arugula leaves.
Serve Immediately: Transfer your gorgeous arugula salad onto individual plates or serving platter. Enjoy right away while flavors are fresh and vibrant!
And there you have it—a delightful arugula salad that’s not just easy to prepare but also brings joy to any meal! Whether you pair it with grilled chicken or enjoy it solo as a light lunch, each bite will transport you straight into summer bliss. Now grab those ingredients and let’s create some delicious memories!
You Must Know
- Arugula salad can easily transform into a refreshing meal or side
- Combine fresh greens with your favorite toppings for a delightful crunch
- The peppery taste of arugula adds a unique flair to any dish, making it both nutritious and exciting!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by washing your arugula thoroughly to remove dirt. Chop any additional veggies while the arugula dries. Assemble your ingredients in a bowl and drizzle with dressing last for even coverage.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out arugula for spinach or kale if desired. Add nuts, fruits, or proteins like chicken or chickpeas for an extra boost of flavor and nutrition.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Arugula is best fresh but can last up to two days if kept cool. Avoid reheating as it wilts quickly.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When preparing arugula salad, consider using fresh lemon juice for brightness
- Always taste your dressing before adding it all; you can always adjust!
- Don’t skip on the toppings; they truly enhance the experience
Creating my first arugula salad was a game changer; my friends couldn’t believe how easy and delicious it was. It became a staple at every gathering!
FAQ
What can I add to my arugula salad?
Try adding nuts, cheese, fruits, or grilled chicken for extra texture and flavor.
How long does arugula last in the fridge?
Fresh arugula can stay good for three to five days when stored properly in the fridge.
Can I use pre-packaged dressing on my salad?
Absolutely! A store-bought dressing can save time and still elevate your arugula salad beautifully.
Arugula Salad with Pears and Walnuts
Bright, vibrant, and bursting with flavor, this arugula salad is the perfect blend of peppery greens, sweet pears, crunchy walnuts, and creamy feta. Tossed in a tangy balsamic dressing, each bite delivers a refreshing taste of summer. Whether served as a side dish or a light meal, this salad is sure to impress your guests and become a staple at your gatherings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh arugula
- 2 ripe pears, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup toasted walnuts
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 3 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash the arugula under cold water and spin dry or pat with paper towels.
- In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
- In a large mixing bowl, add arugula and drizzle half of the dressing over it. Gently toss to coat.
- Add sliced pears and toasted walnuts to the salad; sprinkle crumbled feta on top.
- Drizzle remaining dressing over the salad and toss gently again.
- Serve immediately on individual plates or a serving platter.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salad bowl (150g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
