Citrus Arugula Salad Recipe
Bright, zesty, and packed with color, this Citrus Arugula Salad is the ultimate pick-me-up for any season. Every forkful bursts with the tang of fresh citrus, the peppery bite of arugula, and a creamy richness from goat cheese, all rounded out by toasty nuts for crunch. Whether you’re looking for a vibrant centerpiece on your spring table or a refreshing companion to your weeknight dinner, this salad absolutely delivers. Once you see how the bold flavors play together, you’ll want to make Citrus Arugula Salad on repeat!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Citrus Arugula Salad is in its simplicity: just a handful of fresh, wholesome ingredients come together to create something truly special. Each element plays an essential role, from creamy cheese to juicy citrus, peppery greens, and a touch of sweet and tangy dressing.
- Arugula: This bold, leafy green gives the salad its signature peppery flavor and crisp texture.
- Orange: Use a large, sweet orange for juicy segments that brighten up every bite.
- Grapefruit: Adds a beautiful ruby color and tangy edge that pairs perfectly with the other flavors.
- Red onion: Thinly sliced for a subtle bite, balancing out the sweetness of the fruit.
- Goat cheese or feta: Crumbled cheese brings a luscious, creamy counterpoint to the citrus and greens.
- Toasted sliced almonds or pistachios: Nuts add a satisfying crunch and a toasty flavor note that rounds out the dish.
- Olive oil: Forms the base of the bright, silky dressing.
- Fresh lemon juice: Gives the dressing an extra tang that enhances the citrus flavors.
- Honey or maple syrup: Just a teaspoon adds a hint of sweetness to balance the acidity.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing all the flavors together.
How to Make Citrus Arugula Salad
Step 1: Whisk the Dressing
Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl and whisk together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, and honey (or maple syrup) until nicely blended. Sprinkle in some salt and black pepper to taste. This quick, homemade dressing ties the salad together with its sweet and tangy notes.
Step 2: Toss the Arugula
Add the fresh arugula straight into the bowl with your dressing. Gently toss the greens until they’re lightly and evenly coated – you want every leaf glossy but not drenched. This step ensures the arugula’s flavor shines right alongside the vibrant citrus.
Step 3: Add Citrus and Onion
Arrange your orange and grapefruit segments on top of the dressed arugula, followed by the thin slices of red onion. Take a moment to fan everything out—after all, with colors this vivid, you’ll want to show them off!
Step 4: Finish with Cheese and Nuts
Sprinkle the crumbled goat cheese or feta over the salad, along with your toasted almonds or pistachios. That luxurious creaminess and nutty crunch are the finishing touch, making your Citrus Arugula Salad positively irresistible.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
That’s it! Serve your salad immediately for the freshest flavor and best texture. Citrusy, peppery, creamy, and crunchy—this recipe transforms a humble bowl of greens into something extraordinary.
How to Serve Citrus Arugula Salad
Garnishes
A touch of extra flair goes a long way! Try scattering on a few pomegranate seeds or adding delicate curls of extra citrus zest before serving. A thin drizzle of good olive oil or a scattering of microgreens can make your Citrus Arugula Salad look absolutely restaurant-worthy.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs beautifully with Mediterranean dishes like lemony grilled chicken, herby quinoa, or flaky baked fish. For a simple meal, enjoy Citrus Arugula Salad alongside a hearty soup and a slice of crusty artisan bread.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re entertaining, serve the salad on a wide platter so the citrus segments really stand out. For individual lunches or picnics, layer everything in mason jars—dressing at the bottom, arugula in the middle, and fruit and cheese on top—for a colorful, ready-to-serve treat. Mini Citrus Arugula Salad bowls also make a stunning cocktail party appetizer!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftover Citrus Arugula Salad, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Although the greens are best fresh, the flavors will meld deliciously overnight—just expect the arugula to soften a touch from the dressing.
Freezing
Salads like this one don’t freeze well, as the greens and citrus become soggy and lose their lovely textures after thawing. It’s best to prepare only the number of servings you need, or keep the components separate until you’re ready to eat.
Reheating
Citrus Arugula Salad is meant to be enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so no reheating needed. If you’re prepping ahead of time, simply let the salad sit out of the fridge for a few minutes before serving to let the flavors shine.
FAQs
Can I use other types of greens instead of arugula?
Absolutely! While arugula adds that signature peppery punch, baby spinach or mixed spring greens also work wonderfully if you prefer a milder flavor. Just keep in mind that the overall taste will be less spicy.
What’s the best way to segment citrus without making a mess?
Using a small sharp knife, cut away the peel and white pith, then carefully slice between the membranes to release the segments. Work over a bowl to catch the juices—they’re fantastic drizzled over the finished Citrus Arugula Salad!
How can I make this salad vegan?
Simply swap in maple syrup for honey, and either leave out the cheese or use your favorite plant-based crumbles or cashew cheese to keep all those creamy notes without the dairy.
Can I prep the salad in advance?
You sure can! Segment the citrus, slice the onions, and toast the nuts ahead of time. Store everything separately, then assemble and toss the Citrus Arugula Salad just before serving for maximum freshness.
What proteins go well with this salad if I want to make it a main course?
Grilled shrimp, roasted chicken, or even slices of seared tofu pair beautifully with the bright, tangy flavors of the salad. Adding protein makes it a satisfying, balanced meal any time of day.
Final Thoughts
There’s something irresistible about the combination of zesty citrus and peppery greens in this Citrus Arugula Salad. It’s quick, vibrant, and truly makes every meal feel a little more special. Give it a try—you might just find yourself craving this burst of sunshine all year long!
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Citrus Arugula Salad Recipe
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing and vibrant Citrus Arugula Salad that combines the peppery taste of arugula with the sweet and tangy flavors of oranges and grapefruits, topped with creamy goat cheese and crunchy almonds. This salad is perfect for a light and healthy meal or as a side dish for any occasion.
Ingredients
Arugula Salad:
- 4 cups fresh arugula
Citrus Segments:
- 1 large orange (peeled and segmented)
- 1 large grapefruit (peeled and segmented)
Additional Ingredients:
- 1/4 small red onion (thinly sliced)
- 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese or feta
- 1/4 cup toasted sliced almonds or pistachios
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper.
- Assemble the Salad: Add arugula to the bowl and toss gently to coat. Arrange orange and grapefruit segments over the greens, then add sliced red onion. Sprinkle with goat cheese and toasted almonds.
- Serve: Enjoy immediately as a refreshing side or light main course.
Notes
- For extra flavor, consider adding avocado slices or pomegranate seeds.
- To make the salad vegan, use maple syrup and omit or substitute the cheese.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 7 g
- Sodium: 140 mg
- Fat: 13 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 10 mg
