Peppery Arugula Salad with Citrus

Name: Peppery Arugula Salad with Citrus
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups arugula, washed and dried; 2 oranges, segmented; 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion; 1/4 cup toasted walnuts or pecans; 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar; 1 teaspoon honey; 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard

Highlighted under: Fresh & Healthy Plates

I've always believed that a salad can be just as exciting as any main dish, and this Peppery Arugula Salad with Citrus truly proves that point. The combination of the peppery arugula and the sweet, juicy citrus creates a vibrant flavor explosion that's simply irresistible. Tossed with a light vinaigrette, this salad is not only refreshing but also a delightful way to enjoy seasonal produce. Whether you serve it as a starter or a side, I promise, it will brighten up any meal!

Created by

Ethan

Last updated on 2026-02-13T16:02:18.995Z

When I first made this Peppery Arugula Salad with Citrus for a gathering, I wasn’t sure how my guests would respond to the bold flavors. To my surprise, everyone raved about it! The freshness of the arugula paired with the bright citrus notes created a feeling of summer on a plate. I found that toasting the nuts beforehand really enhances their flavor, bringing an extra depth to the dish.

As I prepared this salad, I realized how versatile it is. You can easily substitute orange segments with grapefruit or even adding avocado for creaminess. Feel free to experiment with different nuts or cheese too. This salad has become a staple in my kitchen, perfect for potlucks and picnics alike!

Why You'll Love This Salad
Vibrant flavors that awaken your palate
Fresh ingredients bring a burst of nutrition
Quick and easy to prepare, yet impressive to serve

Understanding Arugula

Arugula is the star of this Peppery Arugula Salad, and its bold flavor sets the tone for the whole dish. This leafy green has a slightly peppery taste that can liven up any salad, making it a perfect contrast to the sweet citrus and creamy feta. When selecting arugula, look for bright green leaves with no signs of wilting or yellowing, as freshness is key to achieving that vibrant flavor in your salad.

The nutritional benefits of arugula are remarkable as well. It is low in calories and high in vitamins A, C, and K, making it an excellent choice for health-conscious eaters. Adding arugula not only enhances the taste but also boosts the overall nutritional profile of the dish. If arugula isn't available, consider substituting it with baby spinach or watercress, though the pepperiness will be diminished.

Citrus Component

The citrus in this salad, particularly the oranges, contributes a refreshing sweetness and acidity that complements the peppery arugula beautifully. When segmenting oranges, use a sharp knife to cut away the peel and white pith, exposing the juicy segments. This technique not only ensures a visually stunning presentation but also keeps the salad from becoming watery, which can happen if the juice is left in the salad instead of using segments.

If you're looking to mix things up, feel free to experiment with different types of citrus. Mandarins, grapefruit, or even blood oranges can all bring unique flavors and colors to the dish. Each variety will offer a slightly different taste, allowing you to tailor the salad to your preferences or seasonal availability.

Dressing and Serving Tips

The dressing is light and complementing, with olive oil providing a smooth base and the Dijon mustard lending a gentle kick. Whisk the dressing until it is emulsified, which should take about 30 seconds to a minute. This ensures that the oil and vinegar blend well, giving your salad a wonderful glossy texture. If the dressing becomes too thick, simply add a teaspoon of water to thin it out without compromising the flavor.

For serving, I recommend transferring the salad to a large platter instead of individual bowls, creating an inviting centerpiece. You can add the feta cheese just before serving to prevent it from getting soggy. If you want to prepare the salad ahead of time, you can store the arugula and cut vegetables separately from the dressing, keeping them crisp and fresh until you're ready to toss everything together right before serving.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create a colorful salad that’s packed with flavor.

Salad Ingredients

4 cups arugula, washed and dried
2 oranges, segmented
1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion
1/4 cup toasted walnuts or pecans
1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

Dressing Ingredients

3 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
1 teaspoon honey
1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard

These ingredients come together for a delightful mix of flavors and textures in every bite.

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to prepare your Peppery Arugula Salad with Citrus quickly.

Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, white wine vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard until well combined.

Combine Salad Ingredients

In a large bowl, add the arugula, orange segments, red onion, and nuts.

Toss the Salad

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently until everything is well coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the salad to a serving dish, sprinkle with feta cheese, and serve immediately for the best flavor.

This salad is best served fresh, but you can make the dressing ahead of time and store it in the fridge.

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize this salad with your favorite nuts or try adding some sliced avocado for extra creaminess. Enjoy with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.

Substitutions and Dietary Adjustments

This salad is extremely adaptable, so feel free to switch up the nuts depending on your preference or dietary restrictions. Almonds or sunflower seeds can provide the crunch you crave, even if walnuts or pecans are not an option. Furthermore, for a dairy-free version, you can omit the feta cheese or replace it with a vegan cheese alternative, ensuring that everyone at the table can enjoy this vibrant salad.

If you're looking for a protein boost, consider adding grilled chicken or chickpeas for a more filling meal. Both options will complement the existing flavors without overshadowing the fresh arugula and citrus. Just be sure to adjust the dressing accordingly, as protein components can absorb some of the flavors.

Storage Guidelines

Proper storage is crucial if you plan on enjoying leftovers. The arugula may wilt if stored too long with the dressing. To keep this salad fresh, store the dressing separately and combine it with the salad only when you're ready to eat. If you do combine it ahead of time, it’s best to consume it within a few hours to enjoy optimal freshness.

If you have leftover citrus segments, they can be refrigerated for a day or two but may lose some texture. Consider using any remaining segments in a smoothie or topping yogurt for a refreshing snack. The vinaigrette can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, making it a great make-ahead option for future salads.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of greens?

Absolutely! Spinach or mixed greens can be great alternatives.

→ How long does the salad last in the fridge?

It's best enjoyed fresh but can last up to one day in the fridge without the dressing.

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

You can prepare the ingredients ahead but wait to dress the salad until just before serving.

→ What can I add for protein?

Grilled chicken or chickpeas are excellent choices to make this salad more filling.