Arugula and almond salad with dried cranberries is a fresh and easy salad that is perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish with dinner. This type of salad is popular in many different cultures, and it is easy to see why. The combination of the arugula's peppery flavor, the sweet tartness of dried cranberries, and the nuttiness of almonds is irresistible.
Ingredients
To make an arugula and almond salad with dried cranberries, you will need the following ingredients:
- 4 cups of arugula
- 1/4 cup of slivered almonds
- 1/4 cup of dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup of extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice
- 1 clove of garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
Arugula
Arugula is the main ingredient in this salad. This leafy green has a peppery flavor and a slightly bitter taste. It is a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin K, calcium, and iron. Arugula is also low in calories, making it a great choice for a healthy salad.
Slivered almonds
Slivered almonds add a nutty crunch to this arugula and almond salad. Almonds are a good source of healthy fats, protein, and fiber. They are also rich in vitamin E, magnesium, and potassium.
Dried cranberries
Dried cranberries are a delicious addition to this salad. These sweet-tart berries add a burst of flavor and color to the dish. They are also packed with antioxidants and vitamin C, making them a healthy choice for a snack or ingredient in salads.
Extra-virgin olive oil
Extra-virgin olive oil is a healthy fat that is a staple in the Mediterranean diet. It is rich in monounsaturated fatty acids, which are good for heart health. Olive oil also contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.
Lemon juice
Fresh lemon juice adds a bright, tangy flavor to the salad. It is an excellent source of vitamin C and adds a boost of antioxidants to the dish.
Garlic
Garlic adds a savory depth of flavor to the salad. It is also rich in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties.
Salt
Salt is used to enhance the flavors in the salad. However, it is important to use it in moderation and to opt for a high-quality salt, such as sea salt or Himalayan salt.
Instructions
1. Start by washing and drying the arugula leaves. You can use a salad spinner or pat the leaves dry with a clean kitchen towel.
2. Spread the slivered almonds on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown. Be sure to keep an eye on them, as they can burn quickly.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and salt.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the arugula, toasted almonds, and dried cranberries.
5. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well to coat. Be sure to use enough dressing to fully coat the greens and toppings.
6. Serve the arugula and almond salad with dried cranberries immediately, garnished with additional toasted almonds or dried cranberries, if desired.
Variations
There are numerous ways to customize this arugula and almond salad with dried cranberries recipe to suit your tastes and preferences.
Add protein
Consider adding some grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu to the salad to make it more filling and satisfying.
Change up the nuts and fruit
While slivered almonds and dried cranberries are a classic combination, you could also try swapping them out for different nuts and fruits. Walnuts, pecans, or pistachios would be delicious in this salad, as would raisins, chopped apricots, or even pomegranate arils.
Use a different dressing
While the olive oil and lemon dressing is delicious, you could also try using a different vinaigrette or even a creamy dressing, such as ranch or blue cheese.
Add additional greens
If you want to bulk up the salad, consider adding some additional greens, such as baby spinach, kale, or mixed greens.
Conclusion
Arugula and almond salad with dried cranberries is a simple, healthy, and delicious salad that is easy to make and can be customized to suit your preferences. Whether you enjoy it as a light lunch or a side dish with dinner, this salad is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Arugula and almond salad with dried cranberries is a delicious and healthy dish that makes a perfect summer salad. This salad is made with simple ingredients that are easily accessible and can be prepared quickly. However, to make the perfect arugula and almond salad with dried cranberries recipe, it's important to follow some valuable tips. In this article, we will discuss some of the important tips that you should keep in mind while preparing this salad.
Tip #1: Choose fresh ingredients
Choosing fresh ingredients is crucial for making a tasty arugula and almond salad with dried cranberries. When choosing arugula, look for bright green leaves with no signs of browning or wilting. The same goes for the almonds and cranberries; opt for organic or non-processed brands. Checking for expiration dates on the packaging helps ensure the freshness of the ingredients. Also, be sure to wash the arugula leaves thoroughly and pat them dry before using.
Tip #2: Toast the almonds
Adding toasted almonds to the arugula salad gives the dish a pleasant crunch and a nutty flavor. To toast the almonds, place them in a dry skillet over medium heat and stir them occasionally until they turn golden brown. Remove them from heat and let them cool down before adding them to the salad. Toasting helps to release the flavor oils, making the salad taste better and more fragrant.
Tip #3: Make the dressing from scratch
Making the dressing from scratch is a great way to elevate the taste of your arugula and almond salad with dried cranberries. There are many recipes to make your own salad dressings readily available, and making the vinaigrette from scratch will add an extra zing to your salad. Some dressing recipes use balsamic vinegar, or apple cider vinegar, and honey as the base ingredients. The dressing itself can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge until ready to serve.
Tip #4: Keep the salad light and fresh
The arugula and almond salad with dried cranberries is a light and refreshing salad, making it perfect for summer entertaining. The salad should be simple, colorful, and not too heavy. Hence, be careful not to load up on heavy or creamy ingredients such as croutons or cheese, as they can overpower the other flavors. A light sprinkling of cheese or croutons can add more flavor and texture, but use them sparingly to keep the salad light.
Tip #5: Use a combination of flavors
The sweetness of the dried cranberries and the tanginess of the arugula make an ideal combination of flavors. However, you can also add other flavors to the salad to create a unique taste. For instance, adding slices of fresh orange, a sprinkle of feta cheese, or even candied pecans add a twist to the dish. The salad can also be served with some roasted chicken or fish alongside it.
Tip #6: Add a bit of color
The arugula and almond salad already come with its own beautiful green color. However, the addition of different colored ingredients can make the salad even more visually appealing. A few sliced red onion rings, a handful of cherry tomatoes or sweet peppers, and some chopped parsley or cilantro can add a pop of color to the dish while also maintaining its healthiness.
Tip #7: Serve with the right garnish
By serving arugula and almond salad with dried cranberries in the right way, you can make it even more appealing to the guests. Using a white plate makes the greens stand out and is more visually pleasing. Also, the salad should be well-dressed and appropriately tossed to ensure consistency. Use a metal tong to toss the salad carefully and plate it up so that the toasted almonds, and cranberries are evenly distributed, and each serving is adequately presented.
Conclusion
The arugula and almond salad with dried cranberries recipe is an easy, quick, and delicious recipe that can make a perfect summertime lunch or dinner. By following these valuable tips while preparing the dish, you can make sure it turns out tasty and visually pleasing. These tips will help you make the perfect combination of flavors and achieve a light and refreshing salad. With a little creativity, you can prepare an amazing salad that will make your guests want more.
