Strawberry Arugula Goat Cheese Salad

This Strawberry Arugula Goat Cheese Salad is a fresh and vibrant option that combines the peppery taste of arugula with the sweet juiciness of strawberries and the creamy tang of goat cheese.

I love this salad for its combination of peppery arugula, sweet strawberries or cranberries, and tangy goat cheese creates a delightful balance of flavors that is both refreshing and satisfying. The addition of toasted pistachios adds a pleasing crunch and nutty depth, while the simple balsamic dressing ties everything together with just the right amount of acidity and sweetness.

Not only is this salad delicious, but it's also packed with nutrients, offering a healthy dose of vitamins, antioxidants, and healthy fats. Its versatility allows for easy customization based on available ingredients or personal preferences, making it a fantastic choice for a variety of occasions.

Check out my Brussels Sprouts Salad Recipe or my Burrata Peach Arugula Salad.

Jump to:

• Why you will love this recipe
• Strawberry Arugula Goat Cheese Salad Recipe Ingredients
• Instructions
• What to serve with Strawberry Arugula Goat Cheese Salad
• Substitutions
• Strawberry Arugula Goat Cheese Salad Variations
• Equipment
• How to store this Strawberry Arugula Goat Cheese Salad
• Strawberry Arugula Goat Cheese Salad Recipe Top tips
• Strawberry Arugula Goat Cheese Salad
• Food safety

Why you will love this recipe

This Strawberry Arugula Goat Cheese Salad is a delightful symphony of flavors and textures that come together to create a refreshing and satisfying dish. The peppery bite of fresh arugula contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of cherry tomatoes and the optional dried cranberries or fresh strawberries, while the creamy goat cheese adds a rich, tangy dimension.

Toasted pistachios contribute a satisfying crunch, making each bite a mix of vibrant tastes and satisfying textures. The balsamic vinegar dressing, with its hint of honey or maple syrup, ties everything together with a balanced touch of sweetness and acidity. Whether served as a light starter or a vibrant side dish, this salad is sure to impress with its elegant simplicity and delicious complexity.

• Balanced Flavors: The mix of peppery arugula, sweet cherry tomatoes, and optional strawberries or cranberries creates a harmonious blend of savory and sweet, while the tangy goat cheese adds a creamy richness.
• Textural Delight: The crispy, toasted pistachios offer a satisfying crunch, contrasting beautifully with the soft goat cheese and juicy tomatoes.
• Quick and Easy: It’s a straightforward recipe that comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy days or spontaneous gatherings.
• Fresh and Light: The salad is light yet filling, making it an ideal choice for a refreshing lunch or a healthy side dish for dinner.

Strawberry Arugula Goat Cheese Salad Recipe Ingredients

You'll only need a few simple ingredients to make this. The exact measurements are listed in the recipe card below. Here's an overview of what you'll need:

• Arugula
• Goat Cheese
• Cherry Tomatoes
• Red onion
• Pistachios
• Strawberries
• Balsamic Vinegar
• Olive oil
• Honey
• Salt
• Pepper

See recipe card for quantities.

Instructions

Hint: Toast the pistachios just before adding them to enhance their flavor and crunch.

What to serve with Strawberry Arugula Goat Cheese Salad

Grilled Chicken: Lightly seasoned grilled chicken breast or thighs make a great protein addition, transforming the salad into a complete meal.

Crusty Bread: A slice of crusty baguette or a piece of artisan bread is perfect for scooping up the salad and enjoying the flavors together.

Quiche: A savory quiche, such as spinach and feta or mushroom and Swiss, complements the fresh and tangy notes of the salad. Check out my Mexican Quiche Recipe.

Soup: Pairing it with a light soup, like a Tomato Basil Soup or butternut squash soup, makes for a satisfying and well-rounded meal.

Substitutions

Arugula: Spinach, mixed greens, or baby kale can be used if you prefer a milder green or if arugula isn’t available.

Goat Cheese: Feta cheese or ricotta can be used as alternatives for a different creamy texture and flavor.

Cherry Tomatoes: Grape tomatoes, diced regular tomatoes, or even sliced radishes can be used for a similar burst of freshness.

Red Onion: Thinly sliced shallots or green onions can provide a milder onion flavor if you prefer less sharpness.

Pistachios: Walnuts, almonds, or pecans are great substitutes if you don’t have pistachios on hand.

Dried Cranberries: Fresh strawberries, blueberries, or even chopped apples can add a sweet touch if cranberries aren’t available.

Balsamic Vinegar: Red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar can be used for a different acidity profile.

Olive Oil: Any light oil, such as avocado oil or grapeseed oil, can work as a substitute.

Honey or Maple Syrup: Agave nectar or a small amount of granulated sugar can provide the necessary sweetness.

Strawberry Arugula Goat Cheese Salad Variations

Cooking is a chance to be creative! Have fun with it and feel free to make your own variation.

• Mediterranean Twist: Add sliced Kalamata olives, cucumbers, and roasted red peppers. Swap out the pistachios for pine nuts and use crumbled feta cheese instead of goat cheese. Dress with a lemon-oregano vinaigrette.
• Berry Bliss Salad: Combine strawberries with blueberries or raspberries for a mixed berry version. Add a handful of fresh basil or mint leaves for an extra burst of freshness. Top with candied nuts for a sweet crunch.
• Warm Salad: Lightly sauté the arugula in olive oil until wilted, then toss with the other ingredients. This variation adds a warm, comforting element to the salad.
• Autumn Harvest: Replace strawberries with thinly sliced apples or pears and add roasted butternut squash cubes. Sprinkle with toasted pecans and use a maple-balsamic dressing.

Check out this Cream Cheese Stuffed Poblano Peppers.

Equipment

For making the Strawberry Arugula Goat Cheese Salad, you'll need the following equipment:

1. Large Salad Bowl: To combine and toss the salad ingredients.
2. Small Bowl or Jar: For mixing the salad dressing.
3. Whisk or Fork: To blend the dressing ingredients smoothly.
4. Cutting Board: For slicing the cherry tomatoes, red onion, and any other vegetables or fruits.
5. Knife: To cut the cherry tomatoes, red onion, and any other ingredients.
6. Measuring Cups and Spoons: To measure out the dressing ingredients and any other components.
7. Salad Servers or Tongs: For tossing and serving the salad.
8. Skillet (Optional): If you choose to toast the pistachios, a dry skillet over medium heat will work well.

How to store this Strawberry Arugula Goat Cheese Salad

Assembled Salad:

• Short-Term Storage: If you plan to eat the salad within a few hours, it can be left in the fridge in an airtight container. However, for the best texture, avoid mixing in the dressing until you're ready to serve.
• Long-Term Storage: If storing for more than a few hours, keep the salad and dressing separate. Store the salad ingredients in one airtight container and the dressing in another. Combine them just before serving to prevent sogginess.

Ingredients Storage:

• Arugula: Store arugula in a plastic bag or airtight container in the fridge. It should stay fresh for about 3-5 days.
• Goat Cheese: Keep goat cheese in its original packaging or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 1-2 weeks.
• Cherry Tomatoes: Store in a cool, dry place until ripe, then refrigerate if needed. Use within 1 week.
• Red Onion: Store in a cool, dark place. Once sliced, keep in an airtight container in the fridge and use within 1-2 days.
• Pistachios: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks, or in the fridge for longer shelf life.
• Dried Cranberries: Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. They should last for several months.

Strawberry Arugula Goat Cheese Salad Recipe Top tips

Toast Nuts for Extra Flavor: Toast the pistachios or any nuts you use to enhance their flavor and crunch. Just a few minutes in a dry skillet over medium heat can make a big difference.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh, high-quality arugula, tomatoes, and goat cheese for the best flavor and texture. Fresh ingredients will elevate the taste of the salad.

Chill Before Serving: If you have time, chill the salad in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld together and makes the salad more refreshing.

Dress Just Before Serving: To keep the arugula crisp and prevent it from becoming soggy, add the dressing just before serving.

Customize with Toppings: Feel free to add extra toppings like grilled chicken, avocado, or additional fruits to make the salad more substantial and tailored to your taste.

Season to Taste: Adjust the salt and pepper in the dressing to your liking. A little extra seasoning can make the salad pop.

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Food safety

• Cook to a minimum temperature of 165 °F (74 °C)
• Do not use the same utensils on cooked food, that previously touched raw meat
• Wash hands after touching raw meat
• Don't leave food sitting out at room temperature for extended periods
• Never leave cooking food unattended
• Use oils with high smoking point to avoid harmful compounds
• Always have good ventilation when using a gas stove

See more guidelines at USDA.gov.