Apple Arugula Salad Recipe

Looking for a fresh, vibrant salad that combines crisp apples, peppery arugula, and a medley of sweet and tangy flavors? This Apple Arugula Salad is the perfect blend of healthy and delicious, ideal for a light meal or as a stunning side dish. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday gathering or enjoying it on a busy weekday, this salad delivers a perfect balance of crunch, creaminess, and zest.

What Is Apple Arugula Salad?

Apple Arugula Salad is a delightful mix of fresh arugula, thinly sliced apples, crumbled feta or goat cheese, candied nuts, and dried cranberries, all tossed in a simple homemade dressing. It’s a versatile recipe that highlights the natural sweetness of apples paired with the peppery kick of arugula, creating a harmonious and refreshing dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 10 minutes with no cooking required.
• Versatile: Serve it as a side, a light lunch, or bulk it up with protein like grilled chicken or shrimp.
• Flavorful: A perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory with minimal effort.
• Customizable: Swap ingredients to suit your dietary needs or preferences.

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 4 cups fresh arugula
• 1 large apple (Honeycrisp or Granny Smith), thinly sliced
• ¼ cup crumbled feta or goat cheese
• ¼ cup candied pecans or walnuts
• ¼ cup dried cranberries

For the Dressing:

• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp honey
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Salad

1. Place the arugula in a large salad bowl.
2. Add the thinly sliced apple, crumbled feta or goat cheese, candied nuts, and dried cranberries on top of the greens.

Making the Dressing

1. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well emulsified.

Tossing and Serving

1. Drizzle the dressing over the salad.
2. Gently toss until all ingredients are evenly coated.
3. Serve immediately and enjoy the vibrant, fresh flavors.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair this salad with grilled chicken, salmon, or tofu for a more filling meal.
• Serve alongside soups, like butternut squash or tomato bisque, for a cozy, balanced dinner.
• Add a crusty piece of artisan bread for a satisfying lunch.

Storing and Freezing

Storage Tips

• Store leftover salad (undressed) in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Keep the dressing separate to maintain freshness and prevent the greens from wilting.

Freezing Instructions

• This salad is best enjoyed fresh, as freezing will affect the texture of the greens and apples.

Recipe Variations

• Vegan: Substitute the cheese with a plant-based alternative and use maple syrup instead of honey.
• Nut-Free: Replace candied nuts with roasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds.
• Extra Crunch: Add thinly sliced red onions or shaved fennel for additional texture.
• Different Greens: Use spinach, mixed greens, or kale instead of arugula for variety.

FAQs

Can I make the dressing ahead of time?
Yes! The dressing can be prepared up to a week in advance. Store it in a jar in the refrigerator and shake well before using.

What other apples can I use?
Any crisp apple works well. Try Fuji, Pink Lady, or Gala for a sweeter twist.

How do I prevent the apples from browning?
Toss the apple slices in a bit of lemon juice before adding them to the salad.

This Apple Arugula Salad is a simple yet elegant dish that celebrates fresh, wholesome ingredients. Perfect for any occasion, it’s easy to prepare and endlessly customizable. Try it today and let its vibrant flavors brighten your table!

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