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Spinach and Arugula Salad

Zesty Spinach and Arugula Salad with Creamy Feta Bliss

This vibrant Spinach and Arugula Salad is a delicious and nutritious choice for any meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 2 cups Fresh Spinach Leaves Substitution: Baby spinach can also be used.
  • 2 cups Fresh Arugula Substitution: Baby arugula for milder flavor.
  • 1 Carrot Prep Note: Can be julienned or grated for different textures.
  • 1/4 cup Red Onion Note: White, yellow, or green onions can be used instead.
  • 1 stalk Celery Substitution: Cucumber can be a refreshing alternative.
  • 1/4 cup Roasted Sunflower Seeds Substitution/Note: Any nut or seed can be used if sunflower seeds are not preferred.
  • 1/2 cup Feta Cheese Substitution: Vegan feta or omit for a dairy-free option.
For the Dressing
  • 1/4 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil Note: Use high-quality oil for best taste.
  • 2 tablespoons Apple Cider Vinegar Substitution: Red wine vinegar or lemon juice can be used; balsamic for a sweeter option.
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard Prep Note: Adjust based on spice preference.
  • 1 tablespoon Maple Syrup Substitution: Honey can be used if not vegan.
  • 1 clove Garlic Substitution: Garlic powder can be used as an alternative; adjust to taste.
  • Salt Use to taste.
  • Ground Black Pepper Note: Freshly ground gives the best flavor.

Equipment

  • large salad bowl
  • small bowl or jar

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a small bowl or jar, combine 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil, 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon of maple syrup, and 1 minced garlic clove. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Whisk vigorously for about 30 seconds or shake until the mixture is smooth and well-emulsified. Set the dressing aside to allow the flavors to mingle.
  2. In a large salad bowl, place 2 cups of fresh spinach leaves and 2 cups of fresh arugula as the exciting base for your Fresh Spinach and Arugula Salad. Add 1 grated carrot, 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion, and 1 diced celery stalk for crunch. Finally, sprinkle in 1/4 cup of roasted sunflower seeds for added nuttiness. Toss the mixture gently to ensure an even distribution of colors and textures.
  3. With the dressing ready, pour it over the vibrant salad mixture in the bowl. Gently toss everything together using salad tongs or your hands, being careful not to bruise the delicate greens. Aim to coat the ingredients evenly with the dressing, which should create a glossy finish, indicating the salad is perfectly dressed. This step elevates the overall flavor of your Fresh Spinach and Arugula Salad, making every bite irresistible.
  4. Just before serving, crumble approximately 1/2 cup of creamy feta cheese over the top of the salad, allowing for rich flavor and texture contrasts. For an added touch, you can sprinkle a few extra sunflower seeds for garnishing. Serve immediately on chilled plates to maintain freshness, making this salad a delightful centerpiece for your meal.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 4gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 40IUVitamin C: 50mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 10mg

Notes

Best enjoyed immediately. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the dressing separate to prevent wilting.

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