Arugula Citrus Salad

Arugula Citrus Salad is a refreshing dish that combines vibrant flavors and nutritious ingredients. Perfect for any occasion, this salad brings together peppery arugula, sweet oranges, and creamy avocados, creating a delightful balance on your plate. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or looking for a quick weeknight meal, this salad shines with its fresh components and satisfying textures.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This salad can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vitamins and minerals from fresh produce and quinoa, it’s a healthy option for lunch or dinner.
• Flavorful Combinations: The mix of citrus and savory ingredients creates a deliciously unique taste that everyone will enjoy.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main course or as a side dish to complement grilled meats or seafood.
• Customizable: Feel free to switch up the ingredients based on your preferences or what’s in season.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes preparing your Arugula Citrus Salad easier and more enjoyable. Below are some essential items you’ll need.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Saucepan
• Sheet pan
• Large salad bowl
• Mixing bowl
• Fork

Importance of Each Tool

• Saucepan: Ideal for cooking quinoa perfectly without burning it.
• Large Salad Bowl: Provides enough space to toss all the ingredients together without spilling.
• Mixing Bowl: Perfect for preparing your dressing efficiently.

Ingredients

For the Salad Base

• 1/2 cup uncooked quinoa
• 1 cup vegetable broth or water
• 5 oz arugula, about 5-6 cups
• 1 can chickpeas, drained (15 oz)
• 2 medium avocados, slightly firm is ideal – cut into cubes
• 1 orange, peeled and chopped
• 1/2 cup slivered almonds

For the Dressing

• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tbsp orange juice
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 clove garlic, crushed
• 1 tbsp dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp pure maple syrup
• 1 tbsp chopped red onion or shallots
• Salt & pepper

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Arugula Citrus Salad

Step 1: Cook the Quinoa

Add the quinoa and vegetable broth to a saucepan. Bring it to a boil. Once boiling:
1. Cover the pot.
2. Reduce heat to let it simmer for 15-20 minutes until all liquid is absorbed.
3. Remove from heat and let sit for 10 minutes while you prepare your salad ingredients.
4. After 10 minutes, fluff with a fork and season with a little salt.

Step 2: Toast the Almonds

While the quinoa cooks:
1. Place the slivered almonds on a sheet pan.
2. Set them under the broiler for 2-3 minutes until toasted.
3. Alternatively, toast them in a small pan over medium flame until they start to brown.

Step 3: Prepare the Dressing

In a mixing bowl:
1. Combine olive oil, orange juice, lemon juice, crushed garlic, dijon mustard, maple syrup, red onion or shallots.
2. Whisk together until smooth.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

In a large salad bowl:
1. Add arugula and toss it together with half of the dressing.
2. Add cooked quinoa, chickpeas, oranges, avocado, toasted almonds, and feta cheese.
3. Drizzle with remaining dressing.

Step 5: Toss and Serve

Gently toss all ingredients together until well combined. Enjoy your refreshing Arugula Citrus Salad!

How to Serve Arugula Citrus Salad

Arugula Citrus Salad is a refreshing dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or a side, there are plenty of creative options to enhance your meal.

As a Main Course

• Serve it chilled for a refreshing summer meal.
• Pair it with grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein.

With Grains

• Combine with cooked farro or brown rice for a hearty dish.
• Top with quinoa for extra texture and nutrition.

In Wraps

• Use it as a filling in whole wheat wraps for a healthy lunch option.
• Add to pita pockets along with hummus for a Mediterranean twist.

On Toast

• Spoon over avocado toast for a delicious breakfast or brunch addition.
• Layer on toasted baguette slices as an appetizer.

How to Perfect Arugula Citrus Salad

To make your Arugula Citrus Salad truly shine, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh arugula: Fresh leaves provide the best flavor and crispness.
• Choose ripe avocados: Slightly firm avocados will hold their shape better in the salad.
• Toast almonds lightly: This enhances their flavor and adds crunch to your salad.
• Adjust dressing to taste: Feel free to tweak the acidity by adding more lemon or orange juice based on your preference.
• Add seasonal fruits: Incorporate berries or apples for additional sweetness and texture.
• Make it colorful: Include other colorful vegetables like bell peppers or radishes to make the salad visually appealing.

Best Side Dishes for Arugula Citrus Salad

Arugula Citrus Salad pairs beautifully with several side dishes that complement its bright flavors. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Colorful veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms add a smoky flavor that contrasts nicely with the salad.
2. Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: The sweetness of the fries balances out the peppery arugula, making for a delightful combination.
3. Mediterranean Couscous: This fluffy grain dish, mixed with herbs and lemon, enhances the fresh flavors of the salad.
4. Roasted Chickpeas: Crunchy roasted chickpeas add texture and protein, making them an excellent pairing.
5. Garlic Bread: A warm side of garlic bread is perfect for scooping up any leftover dressing from your plate.
6. Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa pilaf seasoned with herbs makes for a nutritious and filling companion.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making an Arugula Citrus Salad, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are some mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the quinoa fluffing: Not fluffing the quinoa after cooking can lead to a clumpy texture. Be sure to let it sit and then fluff it with a fork for a light and airy salad base.
• Forgetting to toast almonds: Toasting your slivered almonds enhances their flavor and crunch. Take a few minutes to toast them before adding them to the salad.
• Not using fresh citrus: Using canned citrus can affect the freshness of your Arugula Citrus Salad. Always opt for fresh oranges or other citrus fruits for vibrant taste.
• Overdressing the salad: Adding too much dressing can make the salad soggy. Start with half of your dressing and adjust based on preference after mixing in all ingredients.
• Neglecting seasoning: A pinch of salt and pepper can elevate your salad’s flavor significantly. Don’t skip this step when preparing your ingredients!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Containers: Use glass containers or BPA-free plastic containers for best results.

Freezing Arugula Citrus Salad

• Duration: Not recommended for freezing due to the texture changes in fresh ingredients.
• Containers: If you must freeze it, use freezer-safe bags but expect significant texture changes when thawed.

Reheating Arugula Citrus Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat in a covered dish for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals (30 seconds), stirring in between until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat, stirring frequently until heated, being careful not to overcook.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other greens instead of arugula in this salad?

Yes, you can substitute arugula with spinach or mixed greens, but the flavor profile will change slightly.

How do I make this Arugula Citrus Salad vegan?

Simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with a dairy-free cheese alternative for a vegan version.

What other citrus fruits can I include in my Arugula Citrus Salad?

You can mix in grapefruit segments or mandarins for added brightness and flavor.

How can I customize my Arugula Citrus Salad?

Feel free to add nuts, seeds, or different vegetables such as bell peppers or cucumbers for extra crunch and nutrition.

Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?

You may prep individual ingredients ahead but mix everything just before serving to maintain freshness and texture.

Final Thoughts

The Arugula Citrus Salad is not only refreshing and vibrant but also versatile enough to suit various occasions. Its combination of flavors makes it an excellent choice for any meal, whether it’s a light lunch or a side dish at dinner. Feel free to customize it with your favorite nuts or additional fruits to make it uniquely yours! Enjoy this delightful salad today!

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Refreshing Arugula Citrus Salad

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves about 4 people 1x

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Description

This Arugula Citrus Salad is a vibrant and nutritious dish that perfectly balances peppery arugula, sweet oranges, creamy avocados, and crunchy almonds. Ideal for a light lunch or as a side at your next gathering, this salad boasts a delightful combination of flavors and textures. Quick to prepare in just 30 minutes, it’s a versatile dish that can be customized with seasonal ingredients or enjoyed on its own. Tossed in a zesty citrus dressing, this refreshing salad will impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds.

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Ingredients

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• 1/2 cup uncooked quinoa
• 5 oz arugula (about 5–6 cups)
• 1 can chickpeas (15 oz), drained
• 2 medium avocados, cubed
• 1 orange, peeled and chopped
• 1/2 cup slivered almonds
• Dressing: olive oil, orange juice, lemon juice, garlic, dijon mustard, maple syrup, red onion, salt, and pepper

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Instructions

1. Cook the quinoa in vegetable broth by bringing it to a boil. Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes until liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork.
2. Toast slivered almonds either under the broiler for 2-3 minutes or in a pan over medium heat until golden.
3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, orange juice, lemon juice, crushed garlic, dijon mustard, maple syrup, and red onion until smooth.
4. In a large salad bowl, combine arugula with half of the dressing. Add cooked quinoa, chickpeas, oranges, avocados, and toasted almonds. Drizzle with remaining dressing.
5. Toss gently to combine and serve immediately.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: Fusion

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 120mg
• Fat: 23g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 18g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 8g
• Protein: 7g
• Cholesterol: 0mg