Arugula Salad with Raspberry Vinaigrette

Name: Arugula Salad with Raspberry Vinaigrette
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups fresh arugula; 1/2 cup fresh raspberries; 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese; 1/4 cup toasted walnuts; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup fresh raspberries; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar; 1 tablespoon honey; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Daily Cooking

I absolutely love making this Arugula Salad with Raspberry Vinaigrette whenever I’m craving something fresh and vibrant. The peppery arugula, combined with the sweet-tart raspberry dressing, creates a refreshing balance that brightens up any meal. It's incredibly simple to prepare, yet it feels gourmet, making it a go-to for casual dinners or for impressing guests. I especially appreciate how quickly this salad comes together—perfect for those busy weeknights when you still want something delicious and healthy.

Created by

Saskia Morton

Last updated on 2026-01-07T14:14:34.765Z

When I first made this Arugula Salad with Raspberry Vinaigrette, I was amazed at how such a simple assembly of ingredients could result in such a flavorful dish. The combination of peppery arugula with the vibrant raspberry dressing tantalizes the taste buds, and I’ve found it to be a delightful companion to grilled meats or as a standalone light lunch.

One tip I discovered is to always use fresh raspberries for the dressing; they provide a depth of flavor that frozen ones simply can’t match. Blending a bit of olive oil with the raspberries brings the vinaigrette to life, and just a pinch of salt perfectly enhances the flavors. It’s a little trick that turns this salad into a real crowd-pleaser!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        The peppery arugula pairs beautifully with tart raspberries for a unique flavor explosion.
Easy to make in just 10 minutes, making it perfect for busy days or last-minute gatherings.
Light yet satisfying, this salad is a great way to incorporate more greens into your diet.

      

Understanding Arugula's Flavor Profile

Arugula is known for its peppery taste, which can add a surprising kick to salads. This particular salad really benefits from that flavor, as the creaminess of the feta and the sweetness of the raspberries create a delightful balance. When choosing arugula, look for vibrant green leaves that are crisp; avoid any that appear wilted or discolored. Fresh arugula can uplift not just this salad but also sandwiches and wraps, making it a versatile ingredient.

If the pepperiness of arugula is too bold for your taste, consider a blend of arugula and spinach. Spinach offers a milder flavor, which can help tone down the spice while still giving you that fresh salad base. You can also try baby arugula, which is typically more tender and less pungent—perfect for those who are new to this unique green.

Raspberry Vinaigrette: Key Tips

This raspberry vinaigrette is not just about taste; the texture is equally important. Make sure to blend the vinaigrette until it's completely smooth for a luxurious mouthfeel. If you find the dressing too thick, you can thin it out with a teaspoon of water or additional balsamic vinegar. For an extra dimension of flavor, consider adding a pinch of Dijon mustard or a splash of citrus juice, like lemon, to the mixture before blending.

When using fresh raspberries, opt for the ripest, brightest ones you can find, as they will provide the best flavor. If raspberries are out of season or you want to try a different taste, you can easily substitute them with strawberries or blackberries, adjusting the sweetness as necessary. Just keep in mind that the color and flavor profile will vary slightly.

Serving and Storing Your Salad

This Arugula Salad is best enjoyed fresh, as the arugula can wilt quickly once dressed. If you’re planning to serve it later, keep the vinaigrette separate until just before serving. You can prepare the salad ingredients up to a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. To preserve texture, place arugula in a sealed container lined with a paper towel to absorb any moisture.

Should you have leftovers, it's crucial to store the salad in an airtight container to maintain freshness. However, keep in mind that the taste may still change upon refrigeration, and the walnuts might lose their crunch. For a twist, consider repurposing leftovers into a sandwich or grain bowl, combining the salad with cooked quinoa or rice for a hearty meal.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to prepare a refreshing Arugula Salad with Raspberry Vinaigrette.

Salad Ingredients

4 cups fresh arugula
1/2 cup fresh raspberries
1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/4 cup toasted walnuts
Salt and pepper to taste

Raspberry Vinaigrette Ingredients

1/2 cup fresh raspberries
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon honey
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to wash the arugula and raspberries thoroughly before using them.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Arugula Salad with Raspberry Vinaigrette.

Prepare the Vinaigrette

In a blender, combine fresh raspberries, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and set aside.

Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, toss fresh arugula with toasted walnuts, crumbled feta cheese, and the prepared vinaigrette until well coated.

Serve

Plate the salad, topping it with extra raspberries if desired, and enjoy!

For added flavor, allow the salad to sit for about 5 minutes before serving to let the ingredients blend.

Pro Tips

Feel free to add grilled chicken or shrimp for a hearty main dish. Adjust the amount of honey in the vinaigrette based on your preference for sweetness.

Ingredient Variations

While feta cheese adds a tangy creaminess to the salad, you could swap it out for goat cheese or even a dairy-free alternative, depending on dietary restrictions. If you prefer a nut-free option, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds provide great texture and a similar satisfying crunch without allergens. Experimenting with different cheeses can change the flavor dynamics; for example, a sharp blue cheese would bring an entirely different flavor profile to the dish.

Incorporating additional veggies is another great way to customize this salad. Sliced cucumbers or bell peppers can lighten the dish even further, bringing extra color and crunch. Now, if you're feeling adventurous, thinly sliced radishes can add a lovely zing that complements the peppery notes of the arugula.

Perfect Pairings

This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish if you're looking to make it a substantial meal. The vibrant flavors of the salad can really enhance the simplicity of grilled proteins, creating a well-rounded dish. For plant-based options, consider topping it with grilled tofu or chickpeas for added protein without compromising taste.

If you're hosting, serve this salad alongside a light, crisp white wine or a refreshing sparkling water. A sparkling rosé also complements the raspberry vinaigrette nicely. Moreover, since the flavors are fresh and bright, they would pair excellently with a light pasta dish or seafood, making this salad a versatile addition to any meal.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you're preparing this salad for a gathering, consider making the vinaigrette a day ahead. It allows the flavors to meld and deepen, improving the overall taste of your dish. Store it in a jar in the fridge, and give it a good shake before using as it might separate slightly while sitting. Also, consider preparing the walnuts in advance by toasting them and storing them in an airtight container to preserve their crunch.

To prevent the arugula from wilting, wash and dry it ahead of time but keep it unassembled in the fridge until serving. This keep the salad fresh and vibrant, ensuring that your guests enjoy a salad that looks as excellent as it tastes. Remember not to dress the salad until just moments before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the dressing in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the dressing a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just shake well before using.

→ Is there a substitute for raspberries in the vinaigrette?

You can use strawberries or blackberries if you prefer a different berry flavor.

→ How long can I store the salad?

The salad is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours. However, the arugula may become wilted.

→ Can I use a different type of greens?

Absolutely! You can substitute arugula with spinach or mixed greens, adjusting the flavors as necessary.