Ingredients with Measurements:
- 4 cups arugula
- 1 cup crescenza cheese, crumbled
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup pine nuts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special equipment needed: None
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine arugula, crescenza cheese, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
2. In a small skillet over medium heat, toast pine nuts until golden brown, stirring frequently.
3. Add toasted pine nuts to the bowl with the salad ingredients.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.
5. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.
6. Serve immediately.
10 minutes
Temperature: Room temperature
Serving size: 4 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 280
- Fat: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Protein: 8g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Arugula can be substituted with spinach or mixed greens.
- Crescenza cheese can be substituted with feta or goat cheese.
- Pine nuts can be substituted with walnuts or almonds.
- Balsamic vinegar can be substituted with red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar.
- Honey can be substituted with maple syrup or agave nectar.
Variations:
- Add sliced avocado for extra creaminess.
- Top with grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein.
- Use different types of cheese such as blue cheese or parmesan.
- Add sliced strawberries or dried cranberries for a touch of sweetness.
Tips and tricks:
- Toasting the pine nuts brings out their nutty flavor and adds a nice crunch to the salad.
- Be sure to toss the salad gently to avoid crushing the delicate arugula leaves.
- Adjust the amount of dressing to your liking.
Storage instructions:
- Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating instructions: None
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the salad in a large bowl or on individual plates.
- Garnish with additional pine nuts or a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs.
Garnishes: Pine nuts, chopped fresh herbs
Pairings: This salad pairs well with grilled meats or fish.
Suggested side dishes: Garlic bread or roasted vegetables.
Troubleshooting advice: None
Food safety advice: Be sure to wash all produce thoroughly before using.
Food history: Crescenza cheese is a soft, creamy cheese that originated in Italy.
Flavor profiles: This salad has a combination of peppery arugula, tangy balsamic dressing, and creamy crescenza cheese.
Serving suggestions: Serve this salad as a light lunch or as a side dish with dinner.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
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Region: Italian