Arugula Salad with Plums & Goat Cheese
This vibrant Arugula Salad with Plums & Goat Cheese offers a delightful contrast of peppery greens, sweet juicy plums, and creamy, tangy goat cheese, all brought together by a simple homemade balsamic vinaigrette.
For 2 servings
Prepare the balsamic vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until well combined and emulsified.
Wash and thoroughly dry the arugula. Place it in a large salad bowl.
Wash the plums, pat them dry, then carefully pit and slice them into thin wedges or bite-sized pieces.
Crumble the goat cheese into small, manageable pieces.
If using walnuts, coarsely chop them. For enhanced flavor, you can lightly toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until fragrant, then let them cool completely.
Pour about half to two-thirds of the prepared vinaigrette over the arugula. Gently toss to coat the leaves evenly. Add more dressing if desired, but avoid over-dressing.
Arrange the sliced plums and crumbled goat cheese over the dressed arugula.
Sprinkle the chopped walnuts over the salad.
Serve immediately and enjoy the fresh, vibrant flavors.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Don't over-dress: Add vinaigrette gradually to the arugula and toss, ensuring the leaves are lightly coated but not soggy. You can always add more, but you can't take it away.
- 2Chill your greens: For the crispiest salad, wash and dry your arugula ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container lined with a paper towel.
- 3Choose ripe plums: Select plums that are slightly soft to the touch but not mushy, ensuring maximum sweetness and juiciness for the best flavor contrast.
- 4Balance the flavors: If your plums are very sweet, you might want to use a slightly more acidic balsamic or a touch more Dijon in your dressing to maintain a perfect sweet-tangy balance.
Adapt it for your goals.
Fruit Swap
Replace plums with fresh figs, peaches, or even sliced apples or pears for a different seasonal twist and texture.
Cheese AlternativeCheese Alternative
Use crumbled feta cheese for a saltier, tangier profile, or small fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini) for a milder, creamier texture.
Nutty CrunchNutty Crunch
Substitute walnuts with toasted pecans, slivered almonds, or candied walnuts for an alternative crunch and flavor.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Antioxidants
Arugula and plums are packed with beneficial antioxidants, which help protect the body's cells from damage caused by free radicals, supporting overall health.
Supports Digestive Health
The fiber content in both plums and arugula contributes to healthy digestion and can help maintain bowel regularity, promoting gut wellness.
Bone Health Boost
Goat cheese provides essential minerals like calcium and phosphorus, which are crucial for maintaining strong bones and teeth, contributing to skeletal health.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, the balsamic vinaigrette can be made up to 3-4 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Shake well before using to re-emulsify.
