Arugula Salad with Pomegranate & Feta
A vibrant, crunchy salad that's full of texture and flavor. The juicy pomegranate arils pop against the peppery arugula and savory feta, all tied together with a bright, simple lemon vinaigrette.
For 4 servings
Prepare the walnuts (if not pre-toasted): Place the chopped walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat. Toast for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant and lightly browned. Be careful not to burn them. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
Make the lemon vinaigrette: In a small bowl or jar, combine the extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey or maple syrup (if using), sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Whisk vigorously or shake the jar until well emulsified. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Assemble the salad base: In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the fresh arugula, cooled toasted walnuts, and pomegranate arils.
Add the feta: Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese evenly over the arugula mixture.
Dress the salad: Just before serving, pour about two-thirds of the prepared lemon vinaigrette over the salad ingredients.
Toss gently: Using salad tongs or your hands, gently toss the salad until all ingredients are lightly coated with the dressing. Add more dressing if desired, but avoid over-dressing.
Serve immediately: Transfer the salad to individual plates or a serving platter. Enjoy as a refreshing side dish or a light meal.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For best results, dress the salad just before serving to prevent the arugula from wilting and ensure maximum crispness.
- 2If you don't have fresh pomegranate, you can often find pre-packaged pomegranate arils in the produce section, or substitute with dried cranberries for a similar sweet-tart chew.
- 3Experiment with different nuts like pecans or pistachios for a varied flavor profile and crunch.
- 4To easily remove pomegranate arils, cut the pomegranate in half, hold it cut-side down over a bowl, and tap the back with a wooden spoon. The arils will fall out.
Adapt it for your goals.
Protein Boost
Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or a can of drained chickpeas for a more substantial meal.
Mediterranean TwistMediterranean Twist
Incorporate thinly sliced red onion, cucumber, and Kalamata olives for a more traditional Mediterranean flavor.
Sweet & SavorySweet & Savory
Add thinly sliced apple or pear for extra sweetness and crunch, or a sprinkle of candied pecans instead of plain toasted walnuts.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Antioxidants
Pomegranate arils are packed with powerful antioxidants, which help protect the body's cells from damage caused by free radicals and support overall cellular health.
Heart-Healthy Fats
Extra virgin olive oil and walnuts provide beneficial monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, known to support cardiovascular health and help reduce bad cholesterol levels.
Nutrient-Dense Greens
Arugula is a low-calorie, nutrient-dense leafy green, rich in vitamins K and A, folate, and calcium, supporting bone health, vision, and overall well-being.
Frequently asked questions
You can prepare the dressing and toast the walnuts in advance. Store them separately. Assemble and dress the salad just before serving to maintain the freshness and crispness of the arugula.
