Description
Strawberry Mango Arugula Salad
Ingredients
4 cups fresh arugula
1 cup strawberries (sliced)
1 cup mango (diced)
1/4 cup red onion (thinly sliced)
1/4 cup pine nuts (toasted)
1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
For the Dressing:
3 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp honey
1/2 tsp Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper (to taste)
Directions
Prepare the salad: In a large bowl, combine arugula, strawberries, mango, red onion, toasted pine nuts, and crumbled feta.
Whisk the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
Toss to coat: Drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss until evenly combined.
Serve: Serve immediately as a colorful and refreshing side dish or light meal.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 220 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
1. Toast the Pine Nuts: In a small, dry skillet over medium-low heat, toast the pine nuts for 2-4 minutes, shaking the pan frequently, until they are fragrant and lightly golden. Immediately transfer them to a plate to cool and prevent burning.
2. Prepare the Produce: Wash and thoroughly dry the arugula. Hull and slice the strawberries. Peel and dice the mango into bite-sized pieces. Thinly slice the red onion.
3. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, combine the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, honey, and Dijon mustard. Whisk or shake vigorously until the mixture is fully emulsified. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Assemble the Salad: In a large serving bowl, add the arugula as your base. Artfully arrange the strawberries, mango, and red onion on top. Sprinkle the cooled pine nuts and crumbled feta cheese over everything.
5. Final Toss: Just before serving, drizzle the desired amount of dressing over the salad. Using salad tongs or two large spoons, gently toss the salad from the bottom up until all ingredients are lightly and evenly coated.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile salad shines as a light lunch on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with grilled proteins. Serve it alongside lemon-herb grilled chicken, seared salmon, or blackened shrimp for a complete meal. For a vegetarian option, add a scoop of quinoa or farro. To make it a stunning starter for a dinner party, serve individual portions on chilled plates.
How-to Summary
Toast pine nuts, chop fruits and veggies, whisk dressing, combine all ingredients in a bowl, toss with dressing, and serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time? You can prep components ahead, but assemble just before serving. Store chopped ingredients and dressing separately in the fridge. Combine and toss within an hour of eating to prevent wilting.
What can I substitute for pine nuts? Toasted slivered almonds, chopped pecans, or walnuts are excellent, more affordable alternatives. Sunflower seeds also work for a nut-free version.
Is there a substitute for feta cheese? Goat cheese crumbles offer a similar tangy profile. For a dairy-free option, omit the cheese or use a vegan feta alternative.
How do I pick a ripe mango? Look for a mango that yields slightly to gentle pressure and has a fragrant smell near the stem. Avoid fruits with lots of black spots or overly wrinkled skin.
Can I use bottled lemon juice? Fresh lemon juice is highly recommended for its bright, clean flavor. Bottled juice can have a preservative taste that may alter the dressing’s fresh profile.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid adding the dressing too early, as the arugula will wilt and become soggy. Do not skip toasting the pine nuts; this crucial step unlocks their rich, nutty flavor. Ensure your arugula is completely dry after washing to prevent the dressing from sliding off. Finally, be cautious when seasoning—feta cheese is already salty, so taste the salad after tossing before adding more salt.
Conclusion
This Strawberry Mango Arugula Salad is a perfect harmony of sweet, peppery, tangy, and crunchy elements, all brought together by a simple, vibrant dressing. It’s a testament to how a few quality ingredients can create a dish that is both impressively beautiful and deliciously healthy. Quick to prepare and endlessly adaptable, it’s a recipe you’ll return to all season long for a burst of fresh flavor.