Simple Apple Arugula Salad Recipe

 

Craving a vibrant and refreshing salad that’s both simple and satisfying? Look no further! This Simple Apple Arugula Salad Recipe combines peppery arugula, crisp apples, sweet cranberries, crunchy sunflower seeds, and tangy feta, all tossed in a homemade apple cider vinaigrette. It’s the perfect dish for a light lunch, a delightful side, or even a quick and healthy dinner. Let’s dive into this delightful salad!

Why You’ll Love This Apple Arugula Salad

This salad isn’t just tasty; it’s also incredibly versatile and easy to make. Here’s why you’ll adore it:

• Quick & Easy: Ready in just 15 minutes!
• Flavor Explosion: A perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and peppery.
• Healthy & Nutritious: Packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants.
• Visually Appealing: The vibrant colors make it a stunning addition to any table.
• Customizable: Easily adaptable to your preferences and dietary needs.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, readily available ingredients.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: From casual lunches to elegant dinners.

Plus, the aroma of the apple cider vinaigrette will fill your kitchen with a delightful fall-like scent, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere. This salad is bound to become a new favorite!

Ingredients Needed for Apple Arugula Salad

Here’s everything you need to create this sensational salad. Remember to source the freshest ingredients for the best flavor!

For the Salad:

• Arugula: 5 ounces (140g). Look for vibrant green leaves, avoiding any wilted or yellowing arugula.
• Apples: 2 medium (about 300g). Choose your favorite variety – Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala work wonderfully. Thinly slice them for the best texture.
• Dried Cranberries: 1/2 cup (75g). Adds a burst of sweetness and chewiness.
• Sunflower Seeds: 1/4 cup (35g). Provides a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor.
• Feta Cheese: 1/4 cup (40g). Crumbled feta adds a tangy and salty counterpoint to the other ingredients.

For the Dressing:

• Olive Oil: 1/4 cup (60ml). Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: 2 tablespoons (30ml). Provides the signature tang of the dressing.
• Honey: 1 tablespoon (15ml). Adds a touch of sweetness and helps to balance the acidity.
• Dijon Mustard: 1 teaspoon (5ml). Emulsifies the dressing and adds a subtle spicy note.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste. Season generously to enhance the flavors of the salad.

Pro tip: For an extra layer of flavor, lightly toast the sunflower seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until golden brown and fragrant.

Essential Equipment List

Having the right tools makes preparing this salad a breeze. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Large Bowl: For tossing the salad ingredients.
• Small Bowl: To whisk together the dressing.
• Whisk: For emulsifying the dressing.
• Knife: For slicing the apples. A sharp knife ensures even slices.
• Cutting Board: To protect your countertop while slicing.

Optional: A mandoline can be used to create perfectly uniform apple slices, but it’s certainly not essential!

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Recipe Details

Get a quick overview of what to expect when making this Simple Apple Arugula Salad Recipe:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Servings: 4-6
• Difficulty: Easy

Double the recipe for a potluck or party. This salad is always a hit!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create the perfect Apple Arugula Salad every time!

Step 1: Combine Salad Ingredients

In a large bowl, gently combine the 5 ounces of arugula, 2 thinly sliced medium apples, 1/2 cup of dried cranberries, 1/4 cup of sunflower seeds, and 1/4 cup of crumbled feta cheese. Be careful not to overfill the bowl, ensuring easy tossing.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon of honey, and 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard until well combined and emulsified. The dressing should be smooth and slightly thickened.

Step 3: Season the Dressing

Season the dressing with salt and pepper to taste. Start with a pinch of each and adjust as needed. Remember that feta cheese is already salty, so go easy on the salt.

Step 4: Toss and Serve

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine, ensuring that all the ingredients are evenly coated. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture, or chill for later. Chilling for about 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld together even more beautifully.

Want a richer flavor? Add a tablespoon of tahini to the dressing!

Tips for Success

Here are some expert tips to ensure your salad is a masterpiece:

• Don’t Overdress: Add dressing gradually, tossing gently to avoid a soggy salad.
• Slice Apples Just Before Serving: This prevents browning. If slicing ahead of time, toss the apple slices with a little lemon juice.
• Use Fresh Arugula: Wilted arugula can make the salad taste bitter.
• Toast Sunflower Seeds: Toasting enhances their nutty flavor.
• Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet salad, reduce the amount of honey in the dressing.

Beginners can pre-measure all ingredients for smoother cooking.

Variations & Substitutions

Customize this salad to your heart’s content! Here are some ideas:

• Cheese: Substitute goat cheese or blue cheese for feta.
• Nuts: Use walnuts, pecans, or almonds instead of sunflower seeds.
• Fruit: Add sliced pears, grapes, or pomegranate seeds.
• Greens: Use spinach or mixed greens instead of arugula.
• Vegan: Omit the feta cheese and use maple syrup instead of honey.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings with Apple Arugula Salad

Elevate your meal with these perfect pairings:

• Main Course: Grilled chicken or fish.
• Side Dish: Roasted sweet potatoes or butternut squash.
• Soup: Creamy tomato soup or lentil soup.
• Drinks: Sparkling apple cider or iced tea.

This salad is especially perfect for a fall-themed dinner party or a holiday gathering.

Health Benefits

This salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients:

• Arugula: Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, and antioxidants.
• Apples: Excellent source of fiber and vitamin C.
• Cranberries: High in antioxidants and may help prevent urinary tract infections.
• Sunflower Seeds: Good source of vitamin E and healthy fats.
• Feta Cheese: Provides calcium and protein.

This Simple Apple Arugula Salad Recipe is a powerhouse of nutrients!

Storage & Reheating

Here’s how to properly store and enjoy leftovers:

• Storage: Store undressed salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Store dressing separately.
• Reheating: Not recommended. This salad is best served fresh.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as the greens will become soggy.

To prevent spoilage, ensure the salad is dry before storing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making this salad:

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salad ingredients ahead of time, but don’t dress it until just before serving to prevent the arugula from wilting.

Can I use a different type of apple?

Absolutely! Honeycrisp, Fuji, Gala, or even Granny Smith apples all work well in this salad. Choose your favorite variety.

Can I substitute maple syrup for honey in the dressing?

Yes, maple syrup is a great substitute for honey, especially for a vegan version. Use the same amount.

What can I use instead of feta cheese?

Goat cheese, blue cheese, or even a vegan cheese alternative will work well in this salad.

How do I prevent the apples from browning?

Toss the sliced apples with a little lemon juice or apple cider vinegar to prevent browning.

Can I add protein to this salad to make it a complete meal?

Yes, grilled chicken, chickpeas, or quinoa are great additions to make this salad a heartier meal.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: 250
• Total Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 50mg
• Total Carbohydrate: 25g
• Dietary Fiber: 5g
• Sugars: 18g
• Protein: 3g

Please note that nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.

More Delicious Dishes to Explore

Craving more delightful recipes? Check out these other fantastic options:

• Apple Salad – A sweeter twist on a classic salad!
• Autumn Harvest Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad – Embrace the flavors of fall with this colorful salad.
• Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Salad – A creamy and crunchy salad with a burst of sweetness.

Conclusion

This Simple Apple Arugula Salad Recipe is a fast, flavorful, and healthy way to enjoy a delicious salad any time of year. It’s perfect for a light lunch, a side dish, or even a quick dinner. Whip it up tonight and tag us with your masterpiece!

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