Arugula, Golden Cherries, Marcona Almonds and Parmigiano-Reggiano
Though inspired by golden cherries from the farmers market, this pretty salad can be made with any sort of fresh or frozen cherry. Marcona almonds hail from Spain; their toasty, slightly sweet and salty flavor is a great match for the fruit. Toasted whole almonds and a few extra pinches of sea salt can be substituted.
Though inspired by golden cherries from the farmers market, this pretty salad can be made with any sort of fresh or frozen cherry. Marcona almonds hail from Spain; their toasty, slightly sweet and salty flavor is a great match for the fruit. Toasted whole almonds and a few extra pinches of sea salt can be substituted.
- Carbohydrate 16 g(5%)
- Cholesterol 14 mg(5%)
- Fat 25 g(39%)
- Fiber 4 g(18%)
- Protein 13 g(27%)
- Saturated Fat 6 g(28%)
- Sodium 307 mg(13%)
- Calories 328
Step-by-step
- Cut the cherries in half lengthwise and place in a large serving bowl.
- Add the arugula, cheese and almonds.
- Drizzle with the oil and vinegar.
- Crush a few generous pinches of salt over the top and season generously with pepper.
- Toss to combine.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning, if necessary.
A Burst of Sunshine: My Simple Arugula Salad
Life's a whirlwind, isn't it? Between juggling work deadlines, school pick-ups, and making sure everyone gets their dinner on the table, sometimes the simplest things are the most rewarding. And this salad? Oh my goodness, it's a testament to that. It's a little slice of sunshine on a busy day, a five-minute masterpiece that packs a flavor punch way beyond its preparation time.
I first discovered this salad recipe while browsing through a cookbook – a rare treat I allow myself when I need a little culinary inspiration. The original called for golden cherries, but honestly, any kind of cherry will do the trick. Frozen cherries work wonderfully in a pinch, adding a burst of juicy sweetness that beautifully complements the peppery arugula. And those Marcona almonds? Don't even get me started! Their toasty, subtly sweet and salty flavor adds a beautiful textural contrast and elevates the entire dish. You can use regular almonds if that's what you have on hand; just make sure to toast them for that extra depth of flavor.
What I love most about this salad is its versatility. It’s perfect as a light lunch, a refreshing side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish, or even a sophisticated appetizer for a dinner party. The combination of flavors is simply divine – the peppery bite of the arugula, the sweetness of the cherries, the salty crunch of the almonds, and the creamy richness of the Parmigiano-Reggiano… it’s a symphony of textures and tastes in every bite. And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make. Even on my busiest days, I can whip this up in a matter of minutes, leaving me feeling both nourished and accomplished.
This salad is more than just a recipe; it’s a moment of self-care, a reminder to pause, appreciate the simple things, and savor the deliciousness of fresh, vibrant ingredients. It's a little bit of joy in a bowl, a small act of self-indulgence that brightens even the most hectic of days. So, the next time you’re feeling overwhelmed, remember this salad. It's a quick, easy, and incredibly delicious way to nourish your body and your soul. And trust me, you’ll feel so much better for it.
A few tips for making this salad even better:
- Use high-quality ingredients: The better the ingredients, the better the salad will taste. Invest in fresh, flavorful arugula and good quality Parmigiano-Reggiano.
- Don't overdress the salad: A little bit of dressing goes a long way. Start with a small amount and add more if needed.
- Add some protein: For a more substantial meal, add grilled chicken, fish, or chickpeas to the salad.
- Make it your own: Feel free to experiment with different ingredients. Add some crumbled feta cheese, toasted pecans, or dried cranberries for a unique twist.
This Arugula, Golden Cherries, Marcona Almonds, and Parmigiano-Reggiano salad is a true testament to the beauty of simple elegance in food. It's a dish that speaks volumes about the power of fresh, high-quality ingredients and the joy of creating something delicious with minimal effort. So go ahead, give it a try. You won't be disappointed.
