Imagine a salad so fresh, so vibrant, and so incredibly delicious that it transforms your entire dining experience. Our Arugula Feta Salad with Strawberry Vinaigrette is not just a side dish – it's a culinary masterpiece that combines the peppery kick of arugula, the creamy richness of feta, and the sweet tang of strawberries in a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving more. Perfect for health-conscious foodies, summer gatherings, or anyone looking to elevate their salad game with minimal effort and maximum taste!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 10 mins
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups arugula
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1 cup strawberries, sliced
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash the arugula leaves thoroughly under cold running water and pat dry using a clean kitchen towel or salad spinner to remove excess moisture.
- Hull and slice fresh strawberries into thin, elegant pieces using a sharp paring knife, ensuring uniform thickness for even distribution in the salad.
- In a small mixing bowl, combine balsamic vinegar with olive oil, whisking vigorously to create a smooth, well-emulsified vinaigrette.
- Season the vinaigrette with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper, tasting and adjusting the seasoning as needed.
- Place the prepared arugula leaves in a large salad bowl, creating a fresh green base for the salad.
- Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese evenly over the arugula, ensuring a balanced distribution of cheese throughout the salad.
- Arrange the sliced strawberries decoratively on top of the arugula and feta mixture.
- Just before serving, drizzle the prepared strawberry vinaigrette over the salad, ensuring light and even coverage.
- Gently toss the salad to combine all ingredients, being careful not to bruise the delicate arugula leaves.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the crisp texture and vibrant flavors of the salad.
Tips
- Choose fresh, crisp arugula for the best flavor and texture. Look for bright green leaves without any wilting or yellowing.
- For the most vibrant vinaigrette, use ripe, in-season strawberries. The sweeter the berries, the more delicious your dressing will be.
- Chill your serving plates or bowl beforehand to keep the salad extra crisp and refreshing.
- If you want to add extra depth, consider toasting some pine nuts or sliced almonds to sprinkle on top for a crunchy texture.
- Make the vinaigrette ahead of time and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days to let the flavors meld together.
- Use high-quality feta cheese – preferably from a local dairy or specialty cheese shop – for the most authentic and rich flavor.
- Serve immediately after dressing to prevent the arugula from becoming soggy and maintain its crisp texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 150kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 20mg
