Description
Bright, refreshing, and packed with flavor, the Arugula Citrus Salad combines peppery arugula with juicy citrus segments and smoky plant-based bacon for a perfect balance of zest, crunch, and savory goodness. Perfect for a quick lunch or a standout side dish, this light yet nutrient-rich salad comes together in under 20 minutes and is ideal for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh arugula
- 1 orange, peeled and segmented
- 1 grapefruit, peeled and segmented
- 1 lemon, peeled and segmented
- 4 slices grilled plant-based bacon, chopped
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
- 1/4 cup toasted almonds
Dressing Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (natural)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (natural)
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup (natural)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (natural)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Citrus: Peel the orange, grapefruit, and lemon carefully with a sharp knife, removing all the white pith. Segment each fruit by cutting between the membranes to create clean slices or cubes, ensuring juicy bursts of flavor without bitterness.
- Cook the Plant-Based Bacon: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the grilled plant-based bacon until crisp. Drain on paper towels to remove any excess oil and let cool. Roughly chop into bite-sized pieces to add a smoky crunch to the salad.
- Assemble the Salad Base: In a large bowl, combine the fresh arugula, thinly sliced red onion, and toasted almonds. Toss gently to distribute ingredients evenly throughout the greens.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil (natural), apple cider vinegar (natural), maple syrup (natural), Dijon mustard (natural), salt, and freshly ground black pepper until emulsified. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Combine and Serve: Add the citrus segments and chopped plant-based bacon to the arugula mixture. Drizzle the dressing over all ingredients and toss lightly to coat without bruising the delicate greens. Serve immediately for maximum freshness.
Notes
- Remove pith and membranes carefully from citrus to avoid bitterness.
- Use fresh, crisp arugula for best texture and flavor.
- Toast almonds gently without added oil for richer flavor.
- Toss salad just before serving to prevent sogginess.
- Balance textures by combining soft citrus and greens with crunchy nuts and smoky bacon alternative.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 1 cup)
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Arugula salad, Citrus salad, Plant-based bacon, Fresh salad, Quick salad, Healthy lunch, Gluten free salad
