Ingredients with Measurements:
- 4 cups of arugula
- 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup of Bel Paese cheese, diced
- 1/4 cup of red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup of toasted pine nuts
- 1/4 cup of balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup of extra-virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special equipment needed:
- None
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Wash and dry the arugula leaves and place them in a large salad bowl.
2. Add the cherry tomatoes, Bel Paese cheese, red onion, and toasted pine nuts to the bowl.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, extra-virgin olive oil, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.
5. Serve immediately.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: None
Temperature:
- Room temperature
Serving size:
- 4 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 220
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Protein: 7g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Arugula can be substituted with spinach or mixed greens.
- Bel Paese cheese can be substituted with any soft cheese such as feta or goat cheese.
- Pine nuts can be substituted with walnuts or almonds.
Variations:
- Add sliced grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
- Substitute the balsamic vinegar with lemon juice for a tangy twist.
- Add sliced avocado for a creamy texture.
Tips and tricks:
- Toast the pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden brown for added flavor.
- Use a vegetable peeler to shave thin slices of Bel Paese cheese for a more elegant presentation.
Storage instructions:
- This salad is best served immediately and should not be stored.
Reheating instructions:
- N/A
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the salad in a large bowl or on individual plates.
- Garnish with additional toasted pine nuts or shaved Bel Paese cheese.
Garnishes:
- Toasted pine nuts
- Shaved Bel Paese cheese
Pairings:
- This salad pairs well with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
Suggested side dishes:
- Grilled vegetables
- Garlic bread
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the dressing is too tart, add a pinch of sugar to balance the flavors.
Food safety advice:
- Wash all produce thoroughly before use.
Food history:
- Bel Paese cheese is a soft Italian cheese that was first produced in the early 1900s.
Flavor profiles:
- This salad has a peppery flavor from the arugula, a tangy sweetness from the balsamic vinegar, and a creamy texture from the Bel Paese cheese.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve this salad as a light lunch or as a side dish to a main course.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
Course Type: N/A
Dietary: N/A
Ingredient: N/A
Meal type: N/A
Occassion: N/A
Region: Italian