Elevate any meal with this Rocket Arugula Pear and Walnut Salad, a vibrant blend of fresh flavors and textures that's perfect for health-conscious food lovers. Featuring peppery arugula (rocket), juicy ripe pears, and crunchy toasted walnuts, this recipe is completed with creamy crumbled feta cheese for a touch of indulgence. The homemade balsamic-honey vinaigrette, infused with Dijon mustard, adds a tangy-sweet contrast that ties every element together beautifully. Ready in just 15 minutes with no cooking required, this salad is a versatile dish that shines as a refreshing starter, elegant side, or light main course. With its balance of sweet, savory, and nutty notes, this easy-to-make pear and walnut salad is a crowd-pleaser for any occasion!
Start by preparing the salad base. Wash and dry the arugula leaves thoroughly, then place them in a large salad bowl.
Slice the pear into thin wedges, leaving the skin on for added texture and color. Remove the core and seeds. Add the pear slices to the bowl with the arugula.
Toast the walnuts for a richer flavor. In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the walnuts for 2-3 minutes until fragrant, stirring often. Let them cool slightly before adding to the salad.
Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the arugula and pear mixture.
Prepare the vinaigrette in a small bowl. Combine olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper. Whisk together until emulsified.
Drizzle the vinaigrette evenly over the salad and toss gently to combine all the ingredients without bruising the arugula leaves.
Serve immediately as a refreshing starter, a side dish, or a light main course. Enjoy!
Calories |
1028 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 86.8 g | 111% | |
| Saturated Fat | 16.8 g | 84% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 27.6 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 44 mg | 15% | |
| Sodium | 1514 mg | 66% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 50.2 g | 18% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 11.3 g | 40% | |
| Total Sugars | 30.1 g | ||
| Protein | 20.5 g | 41% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 449 mg | 35% | |
| Iron | 4.2 mg | 23% | |
| Potassium | 936 mg | 20% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.