Wow! What an insane weekend! On Saturday, our city was hit by a windstorm that left many residents without power for at least a day. Our area did not have power for 29 hours! So far, this is the longest time that I have experienced a power outage since our family immigrated here in 1992. It reminds us how unprepared we are in time of emergency and it also shows how much we depend on technology. Despite this disruption, I still had a relaxing and stress-free summer break. I was able to balance my time between my blog and my personal life. I was able to spend time with my family, go for walks, bike, hike and even tried whitewater rafting! I am enjoying this last week of summer break before I head back to work next week. I have been enjoying the last few batches of the fresh strawberries from my garden. I found a good salad recipe that made use of these fresh berries. It was paired with my favorite greens, arugula. A fennel balsamic dressing completes this awesome duo. Serve this strawberry arugula salad with chicken or beef and you have a light and delicious meal to enjoy!
Cooking Tips for Perfecting Your Strawberry Arugula Salad
To make your strawberry arugula salad truly shine, consider using ripe, sweet strawberries. Look for berries that are vibrant in color and firm to the touch. Avoid those that are mushy or have dark spots, which can indicate overripeness. Washing the strawberries gently under cool water is essential. After washing, pat them dry with a paper towel to prevent excess moisture in the salad. For presentation, slice the strawberries just before serving to keep them looking fresh and appealing.
When it comes to the arugula, opt for young, tender leaves for a milder flavor. If you find mature arugula too peppery, try mixing in some baby spinach or mixed greens to balance the taste. To enhance the flavors, consider lightly toasting some nuts, like walnuts or almonds. Toasting brings out the natural oils and adds a delightful crunch.
Lastly, be mindful of the dressing. A fennel balsamic dressing is a great choice, but don’t drown your salad in it. Start with a small amount and toss gently, adding more as needed. This keeps the salad light and prevents sogginess.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
The beauty of a strawberry arugula salad is its versatility. It makes a delightful side dish for grilled chicken or steak, especially during summer barbecues. For a hearty meal, consider adding grilled shrimp or tofu. Both pair wonderfully with the freshness of strawberries and the peppery notes of arugula.
If you want to add a bit of richness, crumbled feta or goat cheese can elevate the flavors. The creamy texture contrasts nicely with the crisp greens and juicy berries. For a sweet twist, drizzle some honey over the salad or sprinkle some candied pecans on top.
Don’t hesitate to experiment with different dressings as well. A citrus vinaigrette or a honey mustard dressing can bring a different vibe to the dish while still complementing the strawberries. If you have leftover salad, it can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for a day, but keep in mind that the arugula may wilt. Serve it quickly for the best texture and taste.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I use instead of arugula?
If arugula isn’t your thing, baby spinach or mixed greens work well as substitutes. Just keep in mind that they will change the flavor profile a bit.
How should I store leftover salad?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge. It’s best to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat, as it can make the greens soggy.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
You can prep the ingredients ahead, like slicing the strawberries and toasting the pine nuts. Just wait to assemble the salad and add the dressing until right before serving for the freshest taste.
What proteins pair well with this salad?
Grilled chicken or beef adds a nice heartiness to the salad. Shrimp or even chickpeas can also be great choices if you’re looking for something different.
What are some common mistakes to avoid?
One common mistake is using strawberries that aren’t ripe, which can make the salad taste dull. Also, adding too much dressing can overpower the fresh flavors, so start with a little and add more if needed.
Strawberry Arugula Salad
Ingredients
- 4-6 handfuls of arugula
- 2 cups sliced strawberries
- ½ cup pine nuts
Fennel Balsamic Dressing:
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- ½ tsp honey
- ½ tsp Dijon mustard
- ¼ tsp ground fennel seed
- Sea salt and freshly ground pepper
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, mustard and ground fennel seed. Season with salt and pepper, to taste.
- Add arugula, strawberries and nuts. Gently stir until well combined. Serve on its own or as a side dish with your favorite meat.
Notes
Nutrition
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