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Fresh Arugula Salad with Strawberries and Goat Cheese

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A quick and easy summer salad combining peppery arugula, sweet strawberries, creamy goat cheese, and a homemade balsamic vinaigrette for a fresh and flavorful meal or side dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 5 cups fresh arugula (loosely packed), washed and dried
  • 1 pint strawberries, hulled and sliced
  • 4 ounces goat cheese, crumbled
  • 1/2 cup toasted pecans or walnuts, roughly chopped
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Rinse the strawberries gently under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Remove the green tops (hulled) and slice them into thin pieces about 1/4 inch thick. Set aside.
  2. Toast the pecans or walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently for 3-4 minutes until golden and fragrant. Transfer to a plate to cool.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and freshly ground black pepper until emulsified and smooth.
  4. Place the arugula in a large salad bowl. Add the sliced strawberries, crumbled goat cheese, and toasted nuts. Pour the vinaigrette over the top.
  5. Using salad tongs or two large spoons, toss the salad gently to coat all ingredients without bruising the strawberries or smashing the goat cheese. The arugula should look vibrant and lightly dressed, not soggy.
  6. Taste a small bite and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or a drizzle of balsamic vinegar if desired.
  7. Serve immediately for best freshness. If prepping ahead, keep the dressing separate and toss just before serving.

Notes

Do not overdress the salad to avoid sogginess. Toast nuts carefully to prevent burning. Toss salad just before serving to keep arugula crisp. For dairy-free, substitute goat cheese with vegan cream cheese or avocado slices. Dressing can be shaken in a jar if no whisk is available.

Nutrition

Keywords: arugula salad, strawberry salad, goat cheese salad, summer salad, fresh salad, balsamic vinaigrette, quick salad, easy salad

Find it online: https://hungermind.com/fresh-arugula-salad-with-strawberries-and-goat-cheese-easy-recipe-for-summer/