Looking for a salad that bursts with flavor and freshness? Dive into the delightful world of our Baby Arugula and Strawberry Salad! This Italian-inspired dish combines the peppery notes of baby arugula with the sweet juiciness of fresh strawberries, creating a perfect harmony that dances on your palate. With just 10 minutes of prep time, this salad is not only quick to make but also a feast for the eyes. Whether you're hosting a summer gathering or simply craving a light meal, this vibrant salad will leave your guests asking for seconds. Ready to impress? Let’s get started!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 10 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups baby arugula
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinaigrette
Instructions
- Wash the baby arugula leaves thoroughly under cool running water and pat dry using clean paper towels or a salad spinner to remove excess moisture.
- Rinse fresh strawberries and carefully slice them into thin, uniform pieces using a sharp knife, ensuring each slice is approximately 1/4 inch thick.
- In a large mixing bowl, gently place the dried baby arugula leaves, creating a light and airy base for the salad.
- Distribute the sliced strawberries evenly across the top of the arugula, allowing them to rest delicately on the greens.
- Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the salad, ensuring an even distribution for balanced flavor in each bite.
- Roughly chop the walnuts into small, bite-sized pieces and scatter them across the salad for added crunch and nutty flavor.
- Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette slowly and evenly over the salad, using a light hand to prevent overwhelming the delicate ingredients.
- Gently toss the salad using salad tongs or two large spoons, ensuring all ingredients are lightly coated with dressing without bruising the arugula.
- Serve immediately at room temperature to enjoy the freshest flavors and crispest textures.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: The key to a delicious salad is using the freshest baby arugula and strawberries you can find. Look for vibrant, crisp greens and ripe, fragrant berries for the best flavor.
- Prep Ahead: If you're short on time, wash and dry the arugula and slice the strawberries in advance. Just keep them stored separately in the refrigerator until you're ready to assemble the salad.
- Balance the Flavors: Feel free to adjust the amount of feta cheese and walnuts to suit your taste. If you prefer a creamier salad, add more feta; for extra crunch, sprinkle in additional walnuts.
- Dress It Right: When drizzling the balsamic vinaigrette, start with a little and add more to taste. It's easier to add than to take away, so go light initially to keep the salad from becoming soggy.
- Serve Fresh: For the best experience, serve the salad immediately after tossing. This ensures the arugula remains crisp and the flavors are at their peak.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 10mg
