Arugula Salad with Strawberries and Almonds

Name: Arugula Salad with Strawberries and Almonds
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups fresh arugula; 2 cups strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1/2 cup sliced almonds, toasted; 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional); 3 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar; 1 teaspoon honey; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

I absolutely love making this Arugula Salad with Strawberries and Almonds, especially during the warmer months. The peppery arugula, sweet strawberries, and crunchy almonds create a vibrant and refreshing dish that feels like a celebration in every bite. It’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for a light lunch or a beautiful side at dinner gatherings. Each ingredient shines through, especially when drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette that brings everything together beautifully.

Created by

Marley Quinn

Last updated on 2026-01-07T15:13:16.158Z

When I first tried this salad at a local cafe, I was struck by how simple yet delicious it was. I decided to recreate it at home, tweaking the dressing just a bit to add a hint of honey. The combination of the peppery arugula and sweet strawberries elevates the dish beyond your average salad. Using fresh, ripe strawberries is key - they should be juicy and fragrant for the best flavor!

I’ve experimented with different nuts, but I find that the toasted almonds offer the perfect amount of crunch and richness. Don’t skip the toasting step; it brings out the almond's natural oils and enhances their flavor immensely. Every forkful is a delightful mix that leaves me craving more!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        A delightful balance of flavors between peppery, sweet, and nutty
Quick to prepare, making it a go-to for busy weekdays
Perfectly refreshing for picnics or potlucks

      

The Role of Ingredients

Each ingredient in this Arugula Salad plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Arugula's peppery profile not only adds depth but also contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of fresh strawberries, elevating the dish. When selecting strawberries, opt for bright red, ripe ones with a fragrant aroma to ensure a burst of natural sweetness in every bite. This attention to quality will enhance the overall flavor, making your salad truly memorable.

Toasting the almonds is another essential step that brings out their nutty flavor and adds delightful crunch. Aim for a light golden color, as this indicates they are perfectly toasted. You can do this on the stovetop over medium heat or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 8-10 minutes—keep a close eye on them to prevent burning. If you're short on time, you can substitute with pre-toasted almonds; just ensure they're unsalted to avoid overpowering the other flavors.

Making It Your Own

This salad is highly versatile and can easily be customized to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. For a vegan version, simply omit the optional feta cheese or replace it with a plant-based alternative. Additionally, adding slices of grilled chicken or chickpeas can transform this side dish into a satisfying main course, perfect for a protein-packed lunch. Experimenting with other berries, like blueberries or raspberries, can also introduce new flavors while maintaining the salad's refreshing qualities.

If you're looking to prepare this salad in advance, the arugula and dressing are best combined just before serving to maintain their fresh textures. However, you can wash and slice the strawberries a few hours ahead and store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Toasted almonds will keep well for a week when stored in a cool, dry place. I recommend tossing everything together shortly before you plan to eat to keep it vibrant and crisp.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for a delicious arugula salad:

Salad Ingredients

4 cups fresh arugula
2 cups strawberries, hulled and sliced
1/2 cup sliced almonds, toasted
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)

Dressing Ingredients

3 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
1 teaspoon honey
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix the ingredients well to ensure maximum flavor!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your salad:

Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the arugula, strawberries, and toasted almonds.

Add the Dressing

Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently until everything is well coated.

Serve

Transfer the salad to a serving platter and sprinkle with feta cheese if desired. Enjoy!

Enjoy your fresh and delicious salad!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider adding some freshly cracked black pepper or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This Arugula Salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats or as a vibrant side for a summer barbecue. Its bright colors and flavors can act as a refreshing contrast to heavier dishes, making it a fantastic addition to any meal. For an elegant presentation, try plating it on individual salad plates with a light drizzle of extra balsamic vinegar around the edge for a sophisticated touch.

If you're serving it at a potluck or picnic, consider making a double batch. The salad is sure to be a crowd-pleaser, and the leftovers (if any) can be enjoyed the next day. Just remember to keep the dressing separate until you're ready to serve to avoid wilting the greens.

Storage and Freshness

To keep your salad fresh if you have leftovers, store the components separately. The arugula can last for about 2-3 days in an airtight container in the fridge, while strawberries should ideally be consumed within a day or so for optimal flavor. If you're storing the toasted almonds, they can last up to a week, providing a crunchy element to future salads or snacks.

When you’re ready to eat the leftovers, simply combine the arugula, strawberries, and almonds again, and whip up a quick fresh batch of dressing. This way, you can retain that crisp texture, ensuring your salad maintains its delightful appeal even after a day in the fridge.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

It's best to prepare the salad right before serving to keep the arugula fresh. You can, however, prepare the dressing in advance.

→ Can I substitute other greens for arugula?

Absolutely! You can use spinach or mixed greens as a substitute, but the flavor will be different.

→ What can I add to make it more filling?

You could add grilled chicken, quinoa, or chickpeas to make this salad more substantial.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a day. The greens may wilt if kept too long.