Elegant Arugula and Apple Salad with Goat Cheese
Elevate your lunch or dinner with this refreshing and sophisticated Arugula, Apple, and Goat Cheese Salad. Inspired by the vibrant produce from the farmers' market, this salad showcases the peppery crunch of fresh arugula paired with the sweet crispness of honeycrisp apples. Creamy goat cheese adds richness, while a drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar elevates the dish with tangy depth. Perfect for a quick, elegant meal or as an impressive side salad, this dish embodies seasonal simplicity with just five ingredients. Enjoy the blend of flavors and textures that will leave your taste buds singing!
N/A
Servings
230
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
arugula
3 cups (fresh, washed, and dried)
apple
1/2 (honeycrisp, diced)
goat cheese
3 ounces (fresh, crumbled)
extra virgin olive oil
to taste (use the good quality)
balsamic vinegar
to taste
salt
to taste
black pepper
to taste (freshly ground)
Instructions
1
In a large serving bowl, combine the fresh arugula and diced apple.
2
Crumble the goat cheese over the arugula and apple mixture, ensuring even distribution.
3
Drizzle with high-quality extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar according to your taste preference.
4
Gently toss the salad to combine all ingredients, being careful not to break up the goat cheese too much.
5
Finish with a sprinkle of salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, adjusting seasoning as necessary.
6
Serve immediately, appreciating the fresh flavors!
Nutrition Information
17g
Fat
14g
Carbs
7g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the primary ingredients in the Elegant Arugula and Apple Salad?
The main ingredients are fresh arugula, honeycrisp apple, goat cheese, extra virgin olive oil, and balsamic vinegar, seasoned with salt and pepper.
What kind of apple is recommended for this salad?
The recipe recommends using a honeycrisp apple for its sweet crispness.
How many calories are in a serving of this salad?
This salad contains approximately 230 calories per serving.
Is this arugula salad suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian as it contains only plant-based ingredients and goat cheese.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
To make this recipe vegan, you would need to substitute the goat cheese with a dairy-free or plant-based cheese alternative.
How much arugula is required for the recipe?
The recipe calls for 3 cups of fresh arugula that has been washed and dried.
What is the fat content of the Elegant Arugula and Apple Salad?
One serving of this salad contains 17 grams of fat.
How much protein does this salad provide?
The salad provides 7 grams of protein per serving.
What type of olive oil should be used?
The recipe suggests using a high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor profile.
How do I prepare the goat cheese for the salad?
The goat cheese should be crumbled over the arugula and apple mixture to ensure even distribution.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients used in this salad are naturally gluten-free.
Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?
It is best to serve this salad immediately after tossing to ensure the arugula remains crisp and the apples do not brown.
How many total ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 7 total ingredients: arugula, apple, goat cheese, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and black pepper.
What is the carbohydrate count for this dish?
This salad contains 14 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
How should the apple be prepared?
The half-apple should be diced before being added to the arugula.
What seasoning is recommended for finishing the salad?
The salad is finished with a sprinkle of salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
What does 'peppery' refer to in the recipe description?
Arugula is naturally a peppery-tasting green, which provides a flavor contrast to the sweet apples.
Can I use a different vinegar instead of balsamic?
While balsamic is recommended for its tangy depth, you could use apple cider vinegar for a different flavor profile.
Is the arugula supposed to be cooked?
No, the arugula should be served fresh, washed, and dried to maintain its crunch.
How do I toss the salad without ruining the cheese?
Gently toss the ingredients together, being careful not to break up the goat cheese crumbles too much.
Is this salad a main course or a side dish?
It is versatile and can be served as a quick, elegant meal or as an impressive side salad.
How much goat cheese is used in the recipe?
The recipe calls for 3 ounces of fresh, crumbled goat cheese.
What makes this salad 'elegant'?
The combination of high-quality ingredients like goat cheese, balsamic vinegar, and fresh honeycrisp apples creates a sophisticated flavor profile.
Can I add protein to this salad?
Yes, while not in the original recipe, grilled chicken or salmon would pair well with these flavors.
Is there any added sugar in the dressing?
No, the dressing consists only of olive oil and balsamic vinegar, though the balsamic and apples provide natural sweetness.
What tags are associated with this recipe?
Tags include salad, arugula, apple, goat cheese, quick meal, healthy, fresh produce, easy recipe, and light dish.
How do I measure the dressing?
Both the olive oil and balsamic vinegar should be added 'to taste' according to your personal preference.
Is this a seasonal recipe?
Yes, it is designed to showcase seasonal simplicity and fresh produce like apples and market-fresh arugula.
What should I do if my arugula is wilted?
For best results, always use fresh arugula; if it is wilted, you can try refreshing it in an ice water bath before drying.
Does this salad contain nuts?
The base recipe does not contain nuts, making it a safe option for those with nut allergies.