Description
A refreshing and vibrant Citrus Arugula Salad featuring peppery arugula, sweet and tangy citrus segments, crunchy toasted nuts, and creamy goat cheese, all tossed in a light lemon-honey dressing. This Mediterranean-inspired salad is perfect as a light lunch or a colorful side dish, combining fresh flavors with a satisfying texture.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad:
- 4 cups fresh arugula
- 1 orange, peeled and segmented
- 1 grapefruit, peeled and segmented
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese or feta
- 1/4 cup chopped toasted walnuts or almonds
Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the salad base: In a large bowl, combine the fresh arugula, orange segments, grapefruit segments, and thinly sliced red onion. Toss gently to mix the ingredients evenly.
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, honey (or maple syrup), salt, and pepper until the mixture is well emulsified and combined.
- Toss the salad with dressing: Drizzle the prepared dressing over the arugula and citrus mixture, then toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly without bruising the delicate leaves.
- Add toppings and serve: Just before serving, sprinkle the crumbled goat cheese or feta cheese on top, followed by the chopped toasted walnuts or almonds to add creaminess and crunchy texture.
Notes
- Use blood oranges or tangerines as a citrus variation for a sweeter or different flavor profile.
- To soften the sharpness of the red onion, soak the thin slices in cold water for 10 minutes before adding them to the salad.
- For a more substantial meal, add grilled shrimp or chicken on top.
