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arugula berry salad recipe featured
Avatar photoSara Khalid

Easy Arugula Berry Salad Recipe

Peppery arugula meets juicy mixed berries, creamy goat cheese, crunchy toasted nuts, and zesty balsamic dressing in this vibrant arugula berry salad recipe. Ready in 15 minutes, it's a fresh, healthy summer hit bursting with sweet-tart flavors everyone loves.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American
Calories: 300

Ingredients
  

  • FOR THE SALAD:
  • 5 oz fresh arugula
  • 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
  • 1/2 cup fresh blueberries
  • 1/2 cup fresh raspberries
  • 4 oz goat cheese, crumbled
  • 1/2 cup pecans or almonds, toasted
  • FOR THE BALSAMIC DRESSING:
  • 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk or jar
  • Skillet
  • Salad tongs

Method
 

  1. arugula berry salad recipe recipeCard1
  2. Step 1: In a small bowl or jar, combine balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Whisk or shake vigorously for 30-60 seconds until fully emulsified and thickened slightly, tasting to adjust seasoning for the perfect tangy-sweet balance that defines this arugula berry salad recipe.
  3. Step 2: Heat a dry skillet over medium and toast pecans or almonds for 3-5 minutes, stirring often until fragrant and golden; cool on a plate to enhance crunch without bitterness.
  4. Step 3: Rinse and pat dry strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries; slice strawberries evenly to ensure juicy pops in every bite without excess water wilting the greens.
  5. Step 4: Arrange arugula in a large bowl, fluffing to create an airy base ready for layering the vibrant toppings.
  6. Step 5: Top with prepared berries and cooled nuts, distributing evenly for color and texture harmony.
  7. Step 6: Crumble goat cheese over top, drizzle with dressing, and toss gently just before serving to keep everything crisp and fresh.

Nutrition

Calories: 300 | Carbohydrates: 17 | Protein: 7 | Fat: 25 | Fiber: 4 | Sugar: 10

Notes

STORAGE: Keep undressed in airtight container in fridge up to 2 days. Reheat not needed; refresh with new dressing.
MAKE AHEAD: Prep dressing and chop berries 1 day ahead, store cold.
SUBSTITUTIONS: Vegan? Use plant-based cheese and agave. Nut-free: Seeds instead.
PRO TIPS: Toast nuts fresh for aroma boost; dress minimally to avoid sogginess; use ripe berries for peak sweetness.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS: Plate family-style with grilled protein; garnish with mint for pop; great chilled for picnics.
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