Arugula Fig Salad with Goat Cheese
This Arugula Fig Salad with Goat Cheese is fresh, vibrant, and packed with bold flavors and creamy textures for a perfect light meal or elegant starter.
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 cups baby arugula fresh, vibrant, and peppery
- 8 fresh figs washed and quartered, ripe and sweet
- 1.75 ounces semi-soft goat cheese creamy and tangy
- 0.5 cup balsamic glaze rich and syrupy, for drizzling
- 4 tsp extra virgin olive oil adds a fruity, smooth finish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Fresh Ingredients
- Start by washing the baby arugula thoroughly under cold water. Spin or pat dry carefully to remove excess moisture, which helps the dressing cling better. Next, wash your fresh figs gently and pat them dry. Using a sharp knife, quarter each fig into bite-sized pieces, ensuring you keep their juicy flesh intact.
Step 2: Assemble the Salad Base
- Place the arugula in your large mixing bowl. Drizzle 4 teaspoons of extra virgin olive oil over the greens and toss gently to coat each leaf with a light sheen of oil. This step enhances the natural flavors and adds a subtle richness to the salad.
Step 3: Add Figs and Goat Cheese
- Scatter the quartered figs evenly over the arugula. Then, crumble the semi-soft goat cheese on top. The creamy texture of the goat cheese contrasts beautifully with the crisp greens and tender figs, adding a tangy depth that is simply irresistible.
Step 4: Drizzle with Balsamic Glaze
- Finally, drizzle the balsamic glaze over the entire salad. The glaze’s sweet acidity cuts through the richness of the goat cheese and complements the peppery arugula. Use a spoon or drizzle bottle for an elegant presentation.
Step 5: Toss and Serve
- Give everything one gentle toss to mix flavors without bruising the delicate ingredients. Serve immediately to enjoy the freshest texture and vibrant flavors. This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or can stand alone as a refreshing light meal.
Equipment
- Large Mixing Bowl
- Sharp Knife
- Measuring Spoons and Cups
- Small spoon or drizzle bottle
- Salad tongs or large forks
Notes
- Freeze fresh figs separately for up to 3 months, but do not freeze arugula or goat cheese to preserve texture.
- Substitute goat cheese with feta or ricotta salata for a different flavor profile.
- Toast nuts like walnuts or pecans to add crunch and enhance flavor.
- Avoid overdressing to keep the delicate balance of flavors intact.
- Use ripe figs for the best sweetness and texture; soak dried figs if using as a substitute.