Simple Arugula Salad with Goat Cheese and Citrus

This Arugula Salad combines the peppery bite of Arugula with the sweet, citrusy notes of orange. Creamy goat cheese adds richness, while fennel brings a unique crunch and unexpected sweetness. This easy-to-make Salad is ready in just 10 minutes and makes a stunning addition to any meal. Each bite offers a delightful contrast of textures and tastes, highlighting the best of each ingredient.

Arugula Salad Ingredients:

• Fennel: One bulb, thinly sliced. Fennel adds a crisp, slightly sweet, and licorice-like flavor that contrasts beautifully with the peppery taste of Arugula.
• Baby Arugula: About 4 cups. The show’s star, Arugula, brings a fresh, peppery bite that forms the base of this vibrant Salad.
• Blood Oranges: Segment these to add a splash of citrusy sweetness and vibrant color.
• Goat Cheese: Crumble in to add a creamy, tangy element that complements the other flavors.
• Fresh Mint: Chopped (optional). Mint introduces a refreshing, aromatic note that elevates the flavor profile.
• Seasoning: Salt and pepper to taste, balancing and enhancing the natural flavors of the Salad.

Vinaigrette Ingredients:

• Lime Juice: The acidity of lime juice adds a fresh zing and balances the sweetness of the orange juice.
• Orange Juice: Complements the blood orange segments in the Salad and adds a natural, citrusy sweetness.
• Olive Oil: Use good quality olive oil for a smooth and rich base in your vinaigrette.
• Honey: A touch of honey contributes a subtle sweetness that pairs well with the citrus tartness and the mustard’s sharpness.
• Dijon Mustard: Adds depth and a slight tang, bringing together the various flavors of the vinaigrette.
• Seasoning: Salt and pepper to taste for a well-rounded and balanced dressing.

The Perfect Cheese Pairing

Creamy goat cheese is ideal for this Salad, offering a tart, earthy flavor that contrasts the sweet fennel and orange. Would you prefer something milder? Feta is a great alternative; plant-based cheese can keep the Salad vegan-friendly while maintaining its delicious balance.

Health Benefits of Arugula and Fennel

Both Arugula and fennel contribute to the health appeal of our Salad. Fennel, in particular, is a nutritional powerhouse, rich in vitamins and minerals that support heart and bone health. With its peppery flavor, Arugula also boasts essential nutrients, making it a healthy addition to any diet. So, when you savor this Salad, you’re enjoying a harmonious blend of flavors with fennel as the star and indulging in a nutritious meal that contributes to your overall well-being.

Pairing dishes with your Salad

Our Arugula Fennel Orange and Goat Cheese Salad pairs wonderfully with various dishes. Its vibrant citrus flavor and peppery Arugula make it an excellent choice to balance out more decadent meals.

Consider serving it alongside a Mediterranean Quiche or a Ricotta Peas Pie for brunch or lunch. The Salad’s fresh, light notes complement the creaminess of these dishes. If you’re in the mood for something heartier, pair it with an Easy Mediterranean Chicken Drumstick. The citrusy, fresh flavors of the Salad cut through the savory richness of the chicken, creating a well-rounded meal.