Description
A refreshing and flavorful Apple Arugula Salad featuring peppery arugula, sweet medjool dates, crisp Granny Smith apple slices, sharp white cheddar, and crunchy candied walnuts, all tossed in a deliciously sweet and tangy maple balsamic dressing. Perfect as a light lunch or a vibrant side salad.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients
- 5 oz arugula
- 1/2 cup chopped medjool dates
- 1 Granny Smith apple, thinly sliced
- 5 oz white cheddar cheese, cubed
- 1 cup walnuts
Candied Walnuts
- 1 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
- Pinch of salt
Maple Balsamic Dressing
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 1/2 tbsp pure maple syrup
- 1 tsp dijon mustard
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare Candied Walnuts: In a small pan over medium-high heat, combine walnuts, butter, pure maple syrup, and a pinch of salt. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 2 minutes while stirring frequently to coat the walnuts evenly. Pour the candied walnuts onto a parchment paper-lined small baking sheet or plate, sprinkle with a bit more salt if desired, and place in the refrigerator to cool and harden.
- Make Maple Balsamic Dressing: In a small jar or bowl, combine olive oil, balsamic vinegar, pure maple syrup, and dijon mustard. Whisk or shake vigorously until the dressing is well emulsified. Season with salt and black pepper according to your taste preferences.
- Toss Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the arugula, chopped medjool dates, white cheddar cheese cubes, cooled candied walnuts, and the prepared maple balsamic vinaigrette. Toss gently but thoroughly to combine all ingredients and ensure everything is evenly coated with the dressing.
- Arrange and Serve: Transfer the tossed salad to a serving bowl. Arrange the thinly sliced Granny Smith apple slices beautifully on top for an attractive presentation, or alternatively toss the apple slices in with the other ingredients for a fully integrated bite.
- Enjoy: Serve immediately and enjoy this vibrant salad that perfectly balances peppery, sweet, tangy, and crunchy textures and flavors.
Notes
- Chilling the candied walnuts helps them harden and become delightfully crunchy in the salad.
- Use fresh, crisp Granny Smith apples for the best tart contrast to the sweetness of the dressing and dates.
- If you prefer a vegan option, substitute white cheddar with a plant-based cheese and use vegan butter.
- This salad is best served fresh to keep the arugula crisp and the apple slices from browning.
- Adjust the sweetness of the dressing by adding more or less maple syrup according to taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: apple arugula salad, candied walnuts, maple balsamic dressing, healthy salad, vegetarian salad, fall salad, white cheddar salad
