Description
Bright, refreshing, and wonderfully simple, this Arugula Citrus Salad combines peppery arugula with juicy orange segments and a light, tangy dressing for a vibrant, nutrient-packed dish perfect as a quick lunch, side, or elegant starter.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad
- 4 cups fresh arugula leaves
- 2 medium oranges, peeled and segmented
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup toasted almonds or walnuts
- 1/3 cup feta (plant-based) cheese, crumbled
Dressing
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (natural)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (natural)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (natural)
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (natural)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the citrus segments: Carefully peel the oranges with a sharp knife, removing all the white pith, then segment the fruit by cutting between the membranes to release clean, juicy pieces.
- Slice the red onion thinly: Use a sharp knife to cut the onion into very thin, almost translucent slices that will add a gentle bite without overpowering the salad.
- Toast the nuts: Warm a dry skillet over medium heat and toast your almonds or walnuts for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring often, until golden and fragrant to enhance flavor and crunch.
- Whisk the dressing: Combine olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey or maple syrup, salt, and pepper in a small bowl; whisk until smooth and slightly thickened, creating a balanced, tangy dressing.
- Toss the salad: In a large bowl, gently mix the arugula, citrus segments, red onion, and toasted nuts; drizzle with dressing and toss lightly to coat without bruising the greens.
- Add the cheese and serve: Sprinkle plant-based feta cheese on top for creamy bursts with each bite, then serve immediately to enjoy the fresh textures at their best.
Notes
- Choose fresh arugula with bright green leaves free from yellowing or wilting for the best flavor.
- Segment citrus carefully using a sharp knife to keep beautiful pieces intact and avoid excess juice extraction.
- Toast nuts just before serving to preserve their crunch and aroma.
- Dress the salad lightly; start with less dressing and add more gradually to prevent sogginess.
- Serve immediately for the most vibrant flavors and textures.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: arugula salad, citrus salad, refreshing salad, plant-based feta, healthy salad, gluten free, quick salad, simple salad
