Carrot Arugula Salad with Fig, Goat Cheese & Avocado

Beautiful carrot arugula salad with fig, goat cheese, and avocado is a delightful dish that combines fresh flavors and vibrant colors. This salad is perfect for various occasions, whether you need a refreshing lunch or an easy side dish for dinner. The combination of sweet figs, creamy avocado, and tangy goat cheese makes this recipe stand out, ensuring it will be a hit at your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Nutritious and Delicious: Packed with vitamins and minerals from fresh ingredients, this salad not only tastes great but also supports your health.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a main dish or as a side; it fits perfectly in any meal plan.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps, you can prepare this flavorful salad in under 40 minutes.
• Unique Flavor Profile: The blend of sweet figs and savory goat cheese creates a unique taste experience that will impress your guests.
• Meal Prep Friendly: This salad keeps well in the fridge for up to four days, making it an excellent choice for meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your carrot arugula salad with fig, goat cheese, and avocado, gather the necessary tools to make the process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cast iron skillet or grill
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Tongs
• Baking sheet (if roasting)

Importance of Each Tool

• Cast Iron Skillet or Grill: Ideal for grilling carrots to achieve that delicious smoky flavor while keeping them tender.
• Mixing Bowl: A must-have for combining ingredients easily without mess.
• Whisk: Essential for creating a smooth dressing by thoroughly mixing all components.
• Tongs: Useful for flipping the carrots on the grill and serving the salad without damaging delicate ingredients.

Ingredients

For the Carrots

• 4 large carrots, cut in half vertically and stems/tops removed
• 1 tablespoon avocado oil
• Freshly ground salt and pepper

For the Salad

• 5 ounces baby arugula
• ¾ cup dried fig halves
• ⅓ cup walnuts halves and pieces
• ⅓ cup goat cheese crumbles
• 1 avocado, sliced
• ½ cup roasted chickpeas (optional, for extra protein)

Maple Tahini Dressing

• ¼ cup drippy tahini (I always use Soom Tahini)
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1-2 teaspoons pure maple syrup
• ½ teaspoon dijon mustard
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• 2-3 tablespoons warm water, to thin out a bit
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• Freshly ground black pepper

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Carrot Arugula Salad with Fig, Goat Cheese & Avocado

Step 1: Prepare the Carrots

Add vertically cut carrots to a large bowl or platter. Drizzle with avocado oil and season with freshly ground salt and pepper. Use tongs or clean hands to coat the carrots evenly with the oil.

Step 2: Grill or Roast the Carrots

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400 degrees F). Grill the carrots for 15-25 minutes total or until slightly tender, flipping halfway through. If you prefer roasting, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper at 400 degrees F for about 30 minutes until tender.

Step 3: Toast the Walnuts

In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast walnuts by stirring occasionally until they are fragrant and golden brown—about 5 minutes. Set aside.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

In a medium bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, maple syrup, dijon mustard, garlic powder, water (adding one tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency), salt, and black pepper. Set aside.

Step 5: Assemble the Salad

On a large platter (or in a bowl), layer baby arugula first. Then add grilled carrots, dried fig halves, toasted walnuts, goat cheese crumbles, sliced avocado, and roasted chickpeas if using.

Step 6: Dress and Serve

Drizzle tahini dressing generously over the assembled salad. Season with freshly ground salt and pepper before dividing into bowls to enjoy! The salad keeps well in the fridge for 2-4 days. It serves four as a main dish or six as a side salad.

How to Serve Carrot Arugula Salad with Fig, Goat Cheese & Avocado

This vibrant Carrot Arugula Salad with Fig, Goat Cheese & Avocado is not only visually appealing but also packed with flavor. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will enhance your dining experience.

As a Standalone Lunch

• Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature for a refreshing lunch option. Pair it with whole grain crackers for added texture.

With Grilled Proteins

• Complement your salad with grilled chicken or salmon. The smoky flavors will elevate the sweet and tangy notes of the salad.

With Additional Greens

• Mix in other leafy greens like spinach or kale. This adds variety and boosts the nutritional value of your meal.

As a Side Dish

• Offer this salad as a side dish at gatherings. It pairs wonderfully with roasted meats or pasta dishes, adding a fresh element to your table.

In a Wrap

• Use the salad as filling for a whole grain wrap. This makes for an on-the-go meal that is both satisfying and nutritious.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Top the salad with fresh herbs such as basil or mint before serving. This adds a burst of freshness and enhances the overall flavor profile.

How to Perfect Carrot Arugula Salad with Fig, Goat Cheese & Avocado

To ensure your Carrot Arugula Salad turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh arugula and high-quality figs make a significant difference in taste.
• Grill or Roast Carrots – Experiment with grilling or roasting carrots to bring out their natural sweetness.
• Adjust Dressing Consistency – If your tahini dressing is too thick, add warm water gradually until you achieve your desired consistency.
• Toast Walnuts Carefully – Keep an eye on walnuts while toasting to avoid burning; they should be fragrant and golden brown.
• Customize Toppings – Feel free to mix in other toppings like cranberries or sunflower seeds for additional flavors and crunch.
• Serve Immediately – For optimal freshness, serve the salad right after assembling it to maintain the crispness of the arugula.

Best Side Dishes for Carrot Arugula Salad with Fig, Goat Cheese & Avocado

This Carrot Arugula Salad pairs beautifully with various side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Quinoa Pilaf – A light and fluffy quinoa pilaf adds protein and fiber while enhancing the meal’s healthiness.
2. Roasted Sweet Potatoes – The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes balances well with the tangy goat cheese in the salad.
3. Grilled Vegetables – Mixed grilled vegetables offer smoky flavors that enhance the overall dish beautifully.
4. Chickpea Hummus – Serve chickpea hummus on the side for a creamy texture that pairs nicely with crunchy elements in the salad.
5. Savory Muffins – Consider savory muffins like cheddar herb muffins for a delightful twist alongside your meal.
6. Crispy Tofu Bites – Crispy tofu bites provide plant-based protein and add an interesting texture contrast to the dish.
7. Stuffed Peppers – Colorful stuffed peppers can be filled with grains and veggies, making them an attractive side dish choice.
8. Garlic Breadsticks – Soft garlic breadsticks are always a hit; they can be dipped into any leftover tahini dressing!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Carrot Arugula Salad with Fig, Goat Cheese & Avocado can be simple, but some common mistakes can hinder its deliciousness. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Overcooking the Carrots: Grilling or roasting the carrots too long can make them mushy. Aim for tender-crisp carrots for the best texture.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Forgetting to season each component can lead to bland flavors. Always season your carrots and salad before serving.
• Skipping the Dressing: Failing to prepare the maple tahini dressing means missing out on essential flavor. Do not skip this step; it brings everything together.
• Using Old Ingredients: Using stale nuts or expired cheese can ruin your salad. Check freshness dates on all ingredients before use.
• Not Mixing Properly: If you don’t toss the salad well, some bites may lack flavor. Use tongs and ensure every ingredient is well-coated with dressing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover salad in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the fridge for 2-4 days.
• Keep dressing separate until ready to eat for the best texture.

Freezing Carrot Arugula Salad with Fig, Goat Cheese & Avocado

• Freezing Not Recommended: This salad is best enjoyed fresh due to its ingredients’ textures.
• If necessary, separate components before freezing (carrots and chickpeas).

Reheating Carrot Arugula Salad with Fig, Goat Cheese & Avocado

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm carrot pieces for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds until warm; avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Sauté carrots in a skillet over low heat until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Carrot Arugula Salad with Fig, Goat Cheese & Avocado unique?

This salad combines sweet figs and tangy goat cheese with crunchy walnuts and creamy avocado, creating a delightful blend of textures and flavors.

Can I substitute any ingredients in the Carrot Arugula Salad with Fig, Goat Cheese & Avocado?

Absolutely! You can swap goat cheese for feta or omit nuts if allergies are a concern. Customize it based on your preferences!

How do I ensure my carrots are perfectly grilled for the Carrot Arugula Salad with Fig, Goat Cheese & Avocado?

Grill over medium-high heat until tender but still crisp. Flip halfway through cooking time to ensure even grilling.

Is this Carrot Arugula Salad with Fig, Goat Cheese & Avocado suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This salad holds up well in the refrigerator when stored correctly, making it great for meal prep lunches or side dishes throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

The Carrot Arugula Salad with Fig, Goat Cheese & Avocado is not only visually stunning but also packed with flavors that come together beautifully. Its versatility allows for numerous customization options—feel free to add proteins like grilled chicken or chickpeas as desired. Try making this delightful salad today!