Arugula & Fig Salad Recipe: A Delightful Blend of Flavors
When it comes to refreshing salads that are both vibrant and nutritious, the Arugula & Fig Salad stands out as a delightful option that elegantly combines fresh greens, succulent figs, and crunchy vegetables, all dressed in a zesty vinaigrette. This salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delicious way to incorporate wholesome ingredients into your diet, making it perfect as an appetizer for any gathering or simply as a light meal.
Ingredients
To create this vibrant salad, gather the following ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Arugula leaves (roots removed and washed) | 2 cups |
| Fresh figs (quartered) | 10 |
| Green beans (French beans, cut into 2-inch lengths) | 1 cup |
| Red wine vinaigrette | 2 tablespoons |
| Sunflower seeds | 2 tablespoons |
| Lemon juice | ½ cup |
| Extra virgin olive oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Honey | 1 tablespoon |
| Tabasco Original – Hot Sauce | 2 tablespoons |
| Salt | To taste |
| Black pepper powder | For seasoning |
Nutritional Information
| Nutritional Component | Amount per Serving (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 |
| Protein | 3 g |
| Carbohydrates | 15 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugars | 8 g |
| Fat | 9 g |
| Saturated Fat | 1 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
Preparation Time
| Time Component | Duration |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | 15 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 10 minutes |
| Total Time | 25 minutes |
| Servings | 4 |
Instructions
Creating the Arugula & Fig Salad is a straightforward process that involves a few simple steps, ensuring you capture the fresh flavors of the ingredients:
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Prepare the Arugula: Begin by washing the arugula leaves thoroughly under cold water. After rinsing, ensure to drain all excess water and set the leaves aside to dry. This step is crucial for keeping the salad crisp.
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Sauté the Figs: Heat a small skillet over medium heat. Add the quartered figs to the skillet and allow them to sizzle gently for a few minutes. Drizzle a tablespoon of red wine vinaigrette over the figs, tossing them lightly to coat. Cook for an additional 2 minutes until they are warmed and fragrant. Once done, remove them from the heat and set aside.
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Sauté the Green Beans: In the same skillet, repeat the process for the green beans. Sauté them until they are tender yet still crisp, absorbing any leftover flavors in the pan.
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Make the Dressing: In a separate bowl, squeeze the fresh lemon juice and whisk in the remaining ingredients: extra virgin olive oil, honey, Tabasco sauce, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Continue whisking until the dressing emulsifies into a smooth, cohesive mixture.
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Assemble the Salad: Drizzle half of the dressing over the arugula leaves in a large mixing bowl, tossing gently to combine. Season to taste with additional salt and pepper if desired. Then, drizzle the remaining dressing over the sautéed green beans and figs, ensuring each component is well-coated.
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Serve: To present the salad, carefully place the tossed arugula leaves on a serving plate. Arrange the warm figs and green beans artfully on top, finishing with a sprinkle of crunchy sunflower seeds for added texture and flavor.
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Enjoy: This Arugula & Fig Salad makes for a refreshing appetizer that can brighten any meal. Its combination of fresh greens, sweet figs, and zesty dressing offers a delightful experience that is sure to impress your guests.
Conclusion
The Arugula & Fig Salad is a wonderful representation of how simple ingredients can come together to create a dish that is not only pleasing to the palate but also visually appealing. With its blend of textures and flavors, this salad is perfect for any occasion, whether it be a festive gathering or a casual lunch. Embrace the goodness of seasonal produce and enjoy this delightful salad as part of your culinary adventures!
