Zesty Arugula and Blood Orange Salad with Crumbled Bleu Cheese
This vibrant salad combines the peppery freshness of arugula with the sweet and tart essence of blood oranges, making it a delightful addition to any meal. The standout flavor of crumbled bleu cheese adds a creamy richness that perfectly balances the citrusy notes. With a simple dressing of olive oil and fresh lemon juice, this dish is not only easy to prepare but also showcases the beauty of homegrown ingredients—especially if you're fortunate enough to have a blood orange tree in your own yard. Serve this salad as a refreshing start to your meal or as a light main course, and enjoy the burst of flavors that brighten up your plate!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
arugula
5 cups (packed)
blue cheese
1/4 cup (crumbled)
blood orange
1 large (peeled and segmented)
olive oil
1/8 cup (none)
fresh lemon juice
1/8 cup (none)
salt
to taste (none)
pepper
to taste (none)
Instructions
1
In a large bowl, combine the packed arugula and crumbled blue cheese, mixing gently to distribute the cheese evenly.
2
Carefully remove the peel and white pith from the blood orange using a sharp knife. Cut along the membranes to release the orange segments, allowing them to fall into the bowl with the arugula and cheese.
3
In a small bowl or measuring cup, whisk together the olive oil and fresh lemon juice until well combined.
4
Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to ensure that all ingredients are coated without bruising the arugula.
5
Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning as per your preference.
6
Serve immediately and rejoice in the delightful combination of flavors!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the primary ingredients in the Zesty Arugula and Blood Orange Salad?
The main ingredients are packed arugula, crumbled blue cheese, blood oranges, olive oil, and fresh lemon juice, seasoned with salt and pepper.
What type of cheese is recommended for this salad?
The recipe calls for crumbled blue cheese, which provides a creamy richness that balances the tart citrus notes.
How do I prepare the blood oranges for this recipe?
You should use a sharp knife to remove the peel and white pith, then cut along the membranes to release individual orange segments.
What is the dressing for the Zesty Arugula Salad?
The dressing is a simple mixture of olive oil and fresh lemon juice whisked together.
How much arugula is needed?
The recipe requires 5 cups of packed arugula.
Can I substitute the blue cheese?
Yes, you can substitute blue cheese with feta or goat cheese if you prefer a different flavor profile.
Is this salad vegetarian?
Yes, this salad is vegetarian as it contains only greens, fruit, cheese, and a plant-based dressing.
How long does it take to prepare this salad?
This is a quick meal that can be assembled in minutes once the orange is segmented.
Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled can be used in a pinch.
What is the best way to toss the salad?
Toss the salad gently to ensure all ingredients are coated with dressing without bruising the delicate arugula leaves.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, all the listed ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
How do I season the salad?
Season the salad with salt and pepper to your personal taste preference.
Can I add nuts to this salad?
While not in the original recipe, walnuts or pecans would make a great addition for extra crunch.
What should I serve this salad with?
It serves as a refreshing start to a meal or can be paired with grilled protein for a light main course.
What makes blood oranges different from regular oranges?
Blood oranges have a distinct crimson flesh and a sweet-tart flavor profile that is slightly more complex than standard navel oranges.
Is this salad healthy?
Yes, it features nutrient-dense arugula, fresh citrus, and healthy fats from olive oil.
Can I make this salad vegan?
To make it vegan, simply omit the blue cheese or replace it with a vegan cheese alternative.
Should I serve this salad immediately?
Yes, it is best served immediately after dressing to keep the arugula crisp.
How much blue cheese is used?
The recipe uses 1/4 cup of crumbled blue cheese.
Can I use a different type of green?
While arugula provides a specific peppery flavor, you could use baby spinach as a milder alternative.
What is the ratio of oil to lemon juice?
The recipe uses equal parts olive oil and fresh lemon juice (1/8 cup each).
Can I add balsamic glaze?
A drizzle of balsamic glaze would complement the blood orange and blue cheese beautifully.
How many blood oranges are required?
You will need 1 large blood orange for this recipe.
Is this a good recipe for entertaining?
Yes, the vibrant colors of the blood orange and the sophisticated flavor of blue cheese make it a great dish for guests.
What is the texture of the salad?
The salad offers a mix of crunchy arugula, juicy orange segments, and creamy cheese.
Can I prepare the dressing in advance?
Yes, you can whisk the oil and lemon juice ahead of time and store it in a sealed jar.
How do I prevent the arugula from wilting?
Wait until just before serving to add the dressing and toss the salad.
What category of food does this fall into?
This recipe is categorized as a salad, specifically a citrus and cheese salad.
Is the white pith of the orange used?
No, the instructions state to remove the white pith as it can be bitter.
Why is arugula called 'peppery'?
Arugula contains compounds that give it a natural spicy or peppery bite, which pairs well with sweet fruit.