Description
A fresh and colorful salad combining peppery arugula, sweet strawberries, creamy goat cheese, crunchy toasted nuts, and a light balsamic dressing. Perfect as a light lunch, side dish, or vibrant summer salad, it balances sweet, savory, and tangy flavors with a refreshing crunch.
Ingredients
Salad
- 6 cups fresh arugula
- 2 cups strawberries, sliced
- 120 g goat cheese, crumbled
- 1/3 cup walnuts or pecans, toasted
- 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
Dressing
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tsp honey
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until well combined and emulsified.
- Assemble the salad base: Place 6 cups of fresh arugula in a large salad bowl, creating the foundation for your salad.
- Add fresh ingredients: Toss in 2 cups of sliced strawberries, thinly sliced 1/4 small red onion, and 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh basil to the arugula for vibrant color and flavor.
- Incorporate toasted nuts: Scatter 1/3 cup of toasted walnuts or pecans over the salad to add a crunchy texture and rich nutty flavor.
- Add goat cheese: Crumble 120 grams of creamy goat cheese evenly over the top for a creamy and tangy contrast.
- Dress the salad: Drizzle the prepared balsamic dressing evenly over the salad just before serving to maintain freshness and flavor balance.
- Toss and serve: Gently toss the salad to combine all ingredients and coat them lightly with dressing. Serve immediately to enjoy the vibrant textures and flavors at their best.
Notes
- Add grilled chicken for extra protein to make this salad a more filling main course.
- Fresh blueberries or raspberries can be added as alternative fruits for different flavor variations.
- Toasting the nuts enhances their flavor and crunch, making the salad more satisfying.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American, Mediterranean-inspired
