What To Know
- With its crisp and peppery arugula as the star, this salad tantalizes your taste buds with a harmonious blend of textures and flavors.
- Allow the salad to rest for a few minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.
- His signature use of bold flavors and fresh ingredients creates a dish that is both vibrant and satisfying.
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of this arugula salad recipe, masterfully crafted by the culinary maestro, Emeril Lagasse. With its crisp and peppery arugula as the star, this salad tantalizes your taste buds with a harmonious blend of textures and flavors.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound baby arugula, washed and dried
- 1/2 cup shaved Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese
- 1/4 cup balsamic glaze
Dressing Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the arugula, Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, cranberries, and red onion.
2. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper.
3. Dress the Salad: Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.
4. Top with Crumbled Goat Cheese: Sprinkle the crumbled goat cheese over the salad.
5. Drizzle with Balsamic Glaze: Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze to enhance the flavors.
Variations:
- Add Fruit: For a sweeter touch, add sliced apples, pears, or strawberries.
- Incorporate Vegetables: Enhance the crunch with chopped bell peppers, carrots, or celery.
- Swap the Cheese: Substitute the goat cheese with feta, blue cheese, or mozzarella.
- Try Different Nuts: Use walnuts, almonds, or pistachios instead of pine nuts.
- Experiment with Herbs: Add fresh herbs such as basil, oregano, or thyme for an aromatic twist.
Tips:
- Use fresh, high-quality arugula for optimal flavor and texture.
- Toast the pine nuts to bring out their nutty aroma.
- Allow the salad to rest for a few minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.
- Serve immediately for maximum freshness.
Health Benefits of Arugula:
Arugula is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional value. It is:
- Rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds
- A good source of vitamins A, C, and K
- High in calcium and iron
- Can aid in digestion and support heart health
The Emeril Lagasse Touch:
Emeril Lagasse’s culinary genius shines through in this arugula salad recipe. His signature use of bold flavors and fresh ingredients creates a dish that is both vibrant and satisfying. The harmonious balance of textures and flavors ensures that every bite is a culinary delight.
Conclusion:
Elevate your palate with this exquisite arugula salad recipe by Emeril Lagasse. Its vibrant flavors, crisp textures, and nutritional benefits make it an irresistible choice for any occasion. Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply seeking a healthy and satisfying meal, this salad will undoubtedly impress.
FAQ:
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the salad up to 24 hours in advance. Just keep it refrigerated and dress it just before serving.
Q: What is a good substitute for balsamic glaze?
A: If you don’t have balsamic glaze, you can use a reduction of balsamic vinegar and honey. Simply simmer equal parts balsamic vinegar and honey in a small saucepan until thickened.
Q: Can I use other greens instead of arugula?
A: Yes, you can substitute other greens such as spinach, baby kale, or watercress. Adjust the dressing amount as needed to suit your taste.
