My Favorite Arugula Salad

Welcome to your new favorite Arugula Salad Recipe! This vibrant and delightfully balanced salad combines the peppery bite of arugula with the sweet chewiness of dried figs, the savory depth of salami, the refreshing crunch of cucumber, the satisfying saltiness of pistachios, and the creamy tang of goat cheese. It’s a symphony of textures and flavors that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you feeling nourished and satisfied.

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Why This Arugula Salad Will Become Your New Go-To!

There are some dishes you just keep coming back to, and for me, this Arugula Salad is undeniably one of them. It has become my absolute favorite salad, a dish I genuinely crave and could happily enjoy every single day. The unique combination of flavors and textures is simply irresistible: the crispness of fresh cucumbers, the delicate sweetness of dried figs, the robust saltiness of premium salami, and the satisfying crunch of roasted pistachios all come together in perfect harmony. And let’s not forget the dressing – it’s a game-changer, arguably one of the best vinaigrettes I’ve ever created.

What makes this salad truly special is its universal appeal. Even my children, who can often be discerning eaters, are completely smitten. I usually serve the creamy goat cheese on the side, allowing everyone to customize their portion. The last time I made it, my oldest son declared it “the best salad he’s ever had!” Receiving such high praise from a child is a monumental victory in any kitchen, and it solidifies this recipe’s place as a cherished family staple.

This salad isn’t just delicious; it’s also incredibly versatile and surprisingly simple to prepare. Whether you’re looking for a quick, healthy lunch, a vibrant side dish for dinner, or a crowd-pleasing option for a potluck, this arugula salad delivers every time. It’s a testament to how simple, fresh ingredients, thoughtfully combined, can create an extraordinary culinary experience.

Essential Arugula Salad Recipe Ingredients

Crafting an outstanding salad begins with selecting the finest ingredients. Each component in this Arugula Salad plays a crucial role in creating its balanced flavor profile and delightful texture:

• Arugula and Spinach Mix: The foundation of our salad. Arugula offers a distinctive peppery, slightly bitter note that pairs wonderfully with richer flavors, while baby spinach adds a milder, tender quality. Always prioritize fresh, vibrant greens that look crisp and are free from wilting or discoloration. A mixed greens blend can also work if you prefer a different base, but the arugula is key for that signature zing.
• Dried Figs: These sweet, chewy gems are the stars, providing a natural sweetness that complements the savory elements. Look for plump, moist figs, avoiding any that appear dry, shriveled, or hard, as these will be less flavorful and pleasant to chew. Turkish or Mission figs are both excellent choices.
• Pistachios: For that irresistible crunch and salty kick, roasted and salted pistachios are indispensable. They add a rich, nutty flavor and a satisfying texture. Choosing shelled pistachios saves you prep time and makes them easier to enjoy in every bite.
• Goat Cheese: Crumbly, creamy, and wonderfully tangy, goat cheese introduces a luxurious element to the salad. Its unique flavor beautifully balances the sweetness of the figs and the richness of the salami. You’ll typically find it in the specialty cheese section of your grocery store.
• Cucumber: To add a refreshing, hydrating crunch, fresh cucumber is a must. We recommend using English or Persian cucumbers as they have thinner skins, smaller seeds (or are seedless), and a consistently crisp texture, meaning there’s no need to peel them. They also hold their crunch better than standard cucumbers.
• Salami: This savory cured meat adds a delicious umami depth and a pleasant chewiness that makes the salad more substantial. Look for a high-quality fresh salami in your deli or specialty meat section. Diced small, it disperses flavor throughout the salad.

Crafting the Perfect White Balsamic Vinaigrette

No salad is complete without an exceptional dressing, and our White Balsamic Vinaigrette is precisely that: an outstanding complement to the Arugula Salad. It’s a delightful concoction that strikes a perfect balance between tangy and sweet, enhancing all the other ingredients without overpowering them. Here are some expert tips to ensure your dressing is always a success:

• Customizing Sweetness and Tang: The beauty of homemade dressing lies in its adaptability. Feel free to adjust the amounts of honey and Dijon mustard to suit your personal preference. Add a little more honey for extra sweetness or a touch more Dijon for a sharper, more piquant flavor.
• Make Extra for Later: This dressing is so good, you’ll want it on hand! It’s incredibly versatile and works wonders on other green salads, grain bowls, or even as a flavorful dip for vegetables. I often make a larger batch at the beginning of the week, and it keeps beautifully in the refrigerator, ready to elevate any meal.
• Sourcing White Balsamic Vinegar: Don’t let the name intimidate you. White balsamic vinegar is becoming increasingly popular and can be found in the vinegar aisle of most well-stocked grocery stores. If you have trouble locating it locally, it’s also readily available online.
• Quality Olive Oil Matters: For the best possible flavor and a smooth, luxurious texture, always opt for a good quality extra virgin olive oil. Its fruity notes will beautifully complement the other dressing ingredients and contribute significantly to the overall taste of your salad.

Exciting Arugula Salad Recipe Variations & Substitutions

One of the joys of cooking is the ability to customize a recipe to suit your preferences or what you have on hand. This Arugula Salad is incredibly flexible, offering numerous ways to adapt it without sacrificing flavor. Get creative with these delicious variations:

• Protein Swaps: If salami isn’t your preferred meat, or if you’re looking for different options, consider crispy bacon bits for a smoky flavor, or tender grilled chicken for a leaner, heartier meal. For a vegetarian option, simply omit the meat entirely, and the salad remains incredibly flavorful and satisfying.
• Cheese Alternatives: Not a fan of goat cheese? No problem! Crumbled feta cheese makes an excellent substitution, offering a similar salty tang and creamy texture that pairs beautifully with the other ingredients. Fresh mozzarella pearls or shaved Parmesan could also work for a milder cheese profile.
• Dried Fruit Options: If dried figs are unavailable or you simply prefer something different, dried strawberries, cranberries, or cherries are all wonderful alternatives. Each will lend its unique sweetness and chewy texture, creating a slightly different, but equally delicious, flavor dynamic.
• Nutty Alternatives: Pistachios provide a fantastic crunch, but if you’re looking for a change or need a substitute, toasted almonds, walnuts, or pecans would be equally delicious. Toasting them lightly enhances their natural flavor and aroma.
• Introduce Fresh Herbs: Elevate the freshness and complexity of your salad by incorporating finely chopped fresh herbs. Parsley, mint, or basil would add bright, aromatic notes that beautifully complement the existing flavors. A small handful can make a big difference!
• Add More Fresh Fruit: For an extra burst of sweetness and juiciness, consider adding fresh fruit. Sliced strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries would be particularly delightful, enhancing the salad’s vibrant appeal and making it even more refreshing, especially during warmer months.
• Vegetarian/Vegan Adaptations: For a completely vegetarian version, simply omit the salami. To make it vegan, replace the goat cheese with a dairy-free feta alternative or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor, and swap honey for maple syrup in the dressing.

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Arugula Salad

By
Chelsea Lords

This Arugula Salad Recipe is a vibrant medley of sweet dried figs, savory salami, crisp cucumber, salty pistachios, and creamy goat cheese, all brought together with an exquisite White Balsamic Vinaigrette. It’s a perfect blend of flavors and textures, making it an unforgettable and easy-to-prepare dish.

Prep Time:

20 minutes

Total Time:

20 minutes

Servings:

6 servings

Equipment

• Wide-mouth Mason Jar or other sealable container for dressing
• Large bowl for tossing the salad

Ingredients

Dressing

• 2 tablespoons white balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Dijon-style mustard
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Salad

• 5 ounces baby spinach and arugula mix or mixed greens
• 1/2 cup thinly sliceddried figs
• 1/3 cup roasted and salted shelled pistachios coarsely chopped
• 1 cup chopped cucumber English or Persian recommended
• 3 ounces salami approximately 1 cup, diced
• 1/3 cup crumbled goat cheese

Instructions

• Prepare the Dressing: In a wide-mouth glass jar or any other sealable container, combine all the dressing ingredients: white balsamic vinegar, white wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, olive oil, and salt. Securely seal the jar and shake it vigorously for about 30 seconds to thoroughly combine everything. Make sure the honey is fully incorporated and doesn’t settle at the bottom. You can refrigerate the dressing until you’re ready to use it; remember to shake it again just before serving to re-emulsify the ingredients for a smooth consistency.
• Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, add your fresh arugula and spinach mix. Evenly distribute the thinly sliced dried figs, coarsely chopped pistachios, diced cucumber, and diced salami over the greens. If serving immediately, gently crumble the goat cheese over the top. If making ahead, keep the goat cheese separate and add it just before serving.
• Serve and Enjoy: This Arugula Salad is at its peak freshness when served immediately after dressing. Drizzle a generous amount of the prepared white balsamic vinaigrette over the assembled salad. Gently toss all the ingredients together until the greens and toppings are lightly coated with the dressing. Taste and add more dressing if desired to achieve your preferred flavor intensity. Serve promptly and savor every delicious bite!

Recipe Notes

Note 1: Pistachio Selection: You’ll typically find pistachios in the snack or bulk sections of your grocery store. For the most flavor and convenience in this salad, choose roasted and salted, shelled pistachios. This saves you the trouble of shelling and ensures a vibrant, savory crunch that enhances the overall taste.

Note 2: Cucumber Choice: English or Persian cucumbers are highly recommended for this recipe. They are known for their milder flavor, fewer seeds, and crispier texture compared to standard slicing cucumbers. Their thin skins also mean you don’t need to peel them, saving time and retaining beneficial nutrients.

Note 3: Dressing Storage: The white balsamic vinaigrette is excellent for meal prep! Prepare it in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If the oil and vinegar separate during storage (which is natural), simply let the dressing sit out for about 15 minutes at room temperature, then give it a good shake to re-emulsify before drizzling over your salad.

Note 4: Storage/Make Ahead Best Practices: For the freshest salad experience, it is crucial to store the individual salad components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This prevents the greens from wilting and the other ingredients from becoming soggy. Combine, toss, and dress the salad only just before you are ready to serve it to maintain optimal crispness and flavor.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving

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Calories: 261kcal

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Carbohydrates: 14g

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Protein: 8g

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Fat: 20g

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Saturated Fat: 5g

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Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g

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Monounsaturated Fat: 11g

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Cholesterol: 17mg

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Sodium: 473mg

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Potassium: 336mg

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Fiber: 2g

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Sugar: 10g

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Vitamin A: 736IU

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Vitamin C: 5mg

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Calcium: 89mg

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Iron: 1mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

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