Strawberry Arugula Salad with Feta and Balsamic Vinaigrette
This Strawberry Arugula Salad combines peppery arugula with sweet fresh strawberries and tangy feta cheese, tossed in a maple-sweetened balsamic vinaigrette. The inclusion of sliced green onions and crunchy almonds adds layers of flavor and texture. The dressing balances savory and sweet notes, complementing the crisp greens and juicy fruit, making it a refreshing salad suitable as a starter or light meal.
Ingredients
For the Balsamic Vinaigrette:
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
For the Strawberry Arugula Salad:
- 5 oz. arugula about 3 packed cups, baby
- 8 oz. strawberry stemmed and sliced, fresh
- 2 green onions thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese crumbled
- 1/4 cup almond sliced or slivered
Instructions
- Whisk together all ingredients for the balsamic vinaigrette in the bottom of a large bowl (if making ahead of time, shake up in a jar or in a separate small bowl).
- Add the baby arugula (5 oz.), sliced strawberries (8 oz.), sliced green onions, crumbled feta cheese (1/4 cup), and sliced or slivered almonds (1/4 cup) to the large bowl.
- Toss together until all ingredients are covered in the dressing and serve immediately.
Notes
- For a heartier meal, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or seared salmon atop the salad.
- Prepare the dressing and salad separately to refrigerate for up to 24 hours, combining just before serving to maintain freshness.
- Try substitutions such as goat cheese or fresh mozzarella for feta, and different nuts or seeds to suit dietary needs.
- Store-bought balsamic or similar dressings with a sweet flavor can be used as alternatives to the homemade vinaigrette.
Nutrition Information
Nutrition Facts
Serving: 4 servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 164
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 164kcal | 8% |
| Carbohydrates | 10g | 3% |
| Protein | 4g | 8% |
| Fat | 13g | 20% |
| Saturated Fat | 3g | 15% |
| Cholesterol | 8mg | 3% |
| Sodium | 277mg | 12% |
| Potassium | 299mg | 6% |
| Fiber | 3g | 12% |
| Sugar | 6g | 12% |
| Vitamin A | 949IU | 19% |
| Vitamin C | 40mg | 44% |
| Calcium | 139mg | 14% |
| Iron | 1mg | 6% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.