Looking for a refreshing and nutritious dish that bursts with flavor? Dive into the vibrant world of the Arugula Mushroom Tomato Walnut Salad! This delightful Italian-inspired salad combines peppery arugula, earthy mushrooms, and sweet cherry tomatoes, all topped with crunchy walnuts for an irresistible texture. With just 15 minutes from prep to plate, this salad is not only quick to make but also a feast for the eyes and the palate. Perfect as a light lunch or a side dish for your next gathering, this recipe will leave your guests asking for more. Ready to elevate your salad game? Let’s get started!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 5 mins
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups arugula
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
- 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash the arugula thoroughly under cold running water and pat dry using a clean kitchen towel or salad spinner to remove excess moisture.
- Clean the mushrooms gently with a damp paper towel to remove any dirt, then slice them into thin, uniform pieces.
- Rinse the cherry tomatoes and carefully cut them in half lengthwise, ensuring even and neat halves.
- Toast the chopped walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning. Remove from heat when they become fragrant and golden brown.
- In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to create a smooth vinaigrette dressing.
- Place the arugula in a large salad bowl, creating a fresh green base for the salad.
- Gently add the sliced mushrooms and halved cherry tomatoes on top of the arugula.
- Sprinkle the toasted walnuts over the salad for added crunch and nutty flavor.
- Drizzle the prepared balsamic vinaigrette evenly over the salad just before serving.
- Toss the salad lightly to ensure all ingredients are well-coated with the dressing and serve immediately.
Tips
- Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh, high-quality ingredients. Organic arugula and ripe cherry tomatoes can make a significant difference in taste.
- Toast the Walnuts: Don’t skip toasting the walnuts! This simple step enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch to the salad.
- Customize Your Dressing: Feel free to adjust the balsamic vinaigrette to your liking. Adding a touch of honey or Dijon mustard can give it an extra zing.
- Add Protein: If you want to make the salad more filling, consider adding grilled chicken or chickpeas for a protein boost.
- Serve Immediately: To maintain the crispness of the arugula and the freshness of the tomatoes, toss the salad with the dressing just before serving.
- Experiment with Variations: Try adding other ingredients like feta cheese, avocado, or roasted bell peppers to customize your salad based on your preferences.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 0mg
