The Arugula Citrus Salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish that perfectly combines the peppery flavor of arugula with the sweetness of citrus fruits. Ideal for summer gatherings, picnics, or as a light main course, this salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. With its colorful presentation and satisfying textures from the creamy avocado and crunchy almonds, this salad will surely impress your guests.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: This salad comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
- Nutrient-Rich Ingredients: Packed with quinoa, chickpeas, and fresh vegetables, this dish is loaded with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of citrus dressing and feta cheese elevates the flavors, creating a delightful balance between sweet and savory.
- Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a main course or as a side dish; it pairs beautifully with grilled meats or seafood.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite toppings like nuts or seeds to make it your own!
Tools and Preparation
Before you start making your Arugula Citrus Salad, gather the necessary tools. Having the right equipment can make the cooking process more efficient and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large salad bowl
- Saucepan with lid
- Sheet pan
- Whisk or fork
Importance of Each Tool
- Large salad bowl: This allows you to mix all ingredients easily without spills.
- Saucepan with lid: Essential for cooking quinoa properly by trapping steam for even cooking.
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 1/2 cup uncooked quinoa
- 1 cup vegetable broth or water
- 5 oz arugula (about 5-6 cups)
- 1 can chickpeas (15 oz), drained
- 2 medium avocados (slightly firm), cut into cubes
- 1 orange, peeled and chopped
- 1/2 cup slivered almonds
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
For the Dressing
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp orange juice
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, crushed
- 1 tbsp dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp pure maple syrup
- 1 tbsp chopped red onion or shallots
- Salt & pepper to taste
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Arugula Citrus Salad
Step 1: Cook Quinoa
Add the quinoa and vegetable broth to a saucepan. Bring it to a boil. Once boiling, cover the pot and reduce heat to let it simmer for 15-20 minutes until all liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let sit for 10 minutes. Fluff with a fork and season with a little salt.
Step 2: Toast Almonds
While the quinoa cooks, spread slivered almonds on a sheet pan. Place them under the broiler for 2-3 minutes to toast. Alternatively, toast them in a small pan over medium heat until they start to brown.
Step 3: Make Dressing
In a bowl, combine olive oil, orange juice, lemon juice, crushed garlic, dijon mustard, pure maple syrup, chopped red onion or shallots, salt, and pepper. Whisk together until smooth.
Step 4: Assemble Salad
In a large salad bowl, toss arugula with half of the dressing. Add cooked quinoa, chickpeas, chopped oranges, cubed avocado, toasted almonds, and crumbled feta cheese. Drizzle remaining dressing on top.
Step 5: Serve
Gently toss everything together until well combined. Enjoy your delicious Arugula Citrus Salad!
How to Serve Arugula Citrus Salad
Arugula Citrus Salad is a fresh and vibrant dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it as a main or a side, these suggestions will elevate your dining experience.
As a Main Course
- Serve this salad as a stand-alone dish for lunch or dinner. The quinoa and chickpeas provide protein, making it filling and nutritious.
With Grilled Proteins
- Pair the Arugula Citrus Salad with grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu. The smoky flavors complement the bright citrus notes perfectly.
On a Bed of Greens
- For a lighter option, serve the salad on a bed of mixed greens. This adds extra texture and freshness to each bite.
In Wraps or Sandwiches
- Use the salad as a filling for wraps or sandwiches. It brings a zesty crunch that enhances any meal.
As a Party Appetizer
- Spoon small portions onto appetizer plates for parties. This makes it easy for guests to enjoy while mingling.
How to Perfect Arugula Citrus Salad
To ensure your Arugula Citrus Salad is always delicious, consider these helpful tips.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh arugula and ripe avocados will enhance the flavor and texture of your salad.
- Toast almonds carefully: Watch them closely while toasting to avoid burning; you want them golden, not dark brown.
- Balance flavors: Adjust the dressing by adding more lemon or orange juice based on your taste preference for acidity.
- Let it chill: Allow the salad to rest in the fridge for 15 minutes after tossing; this helps meld the flavors together beautifully.
- Experiment with toppings: Consider adding pomegranate seeds or sliced strawberries for added sweetness and color.
- Store properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container without dressing to keep the arugula fresh.

Best Side Dishes for Arugula Citrus Salad
Arugula Citrus Salad pairs well with several side dishes that complement its flavors and textures. Here are some great options:
- Garlic Bread: A crunchy loaf spread with garlic butter is perfect for scooping up salad remnants.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized add depth and warmth alongside your salad.
- Couscous: Fluffy couscous flavored with herbs can enhance the meal without overpowering the salad’s freshness.
- Stuffed Peppers: Colorful bell peppers filled with rice and beans make an appealing and hearty side.
- Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a refreshing bite.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries bring a hint of sweetness that pairs nicely with citrus flavors.
- Quinoa Pilaf: A herbed quinoa pilaf can echo the nutty notes from your main dish while providing additional texture.
- Fruit Platter: A colorful platter of seasonal fruits can cleanse the palate between bites of rich salad.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making an Arugula Citrus Salad, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps that can impact the flavor and texture. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:
- Skipping the quinoa fluffing: Not fluffing the quinoa after cooking can lead to clumpy grains. Make sure to use a fork to fluff it up before mixing it into your salad.
- Overcooking the quinoa: Cooking quinoa for too long can make it mushy. Keep an eye on it and follow the recommended cooking time of 15-20 minutes.
- Not seasoning properly: Failing to season your ingredients can result in bland flavors. Always add salt and pepper to taste, especially when preparing the quinoa.
- Using unripe avocados: Choosing avocados that are too firm can affect the creaminess of your salad. Opt for slightly soft avocados for the best texture.
- Neglecting to toast almonds: Skipping the toasting step can result in less flavorful almonds. Toast them briefly in the oven or on the stovetop for extra crunch and depth.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store your Arugula Citrus Salad in an airtight container.
- It will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
- Keep any dressing separate until you’re ready to enjoy it.
Freezing Arugula Citrus Salad
- Freezing is not recommended due to the texture changes in leafy greens and avocado.
- If you must freeze, consider only freezing cooked quinoa and chickpeas separately.
Reheating Arugula Citrus Salad
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm any components in a baking dish for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Place your salad components in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals of 30 seconds until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Heat on medium-low heat in a pan, stirring frequently until heated evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions
Can I customize my Arugula Citrus Salad?
You can easily customize this salad by adding different fruits, nuts, or proteins based on your preference.
What is the best way to prepare arugula?
Wash arugula thoroughly under cold water and dry it well before adding it to your salad for maximum freshness.
How long does leftover Arugula Citrus Salad last?
Leftover salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days if kept in an airtight container.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare all ingredients separately and combine them just before serving for optimal freshness.
Final Thoughts
The Arugula Citrus Salad is a delightful mix of flavors and textures that brighten any meal. Its versatility allows you to adjust ingredients based on what’s available or personal taste preferences. Whether enjoyed as a main dish or a side, this salad is sure to impress. Give it a try today!
Arugula Citrus Salad
Arugula Citrus Salad is a refreshing dish that beautifully marries the peppery notes of arugula with the sweetness of vibrant citrus fruits. Perfect for summer gatherings or as a light main course, this salad bursts with flavors and textures, featuring creamy avocado and crunchy almonds. Not only is it visually appealing, but it’s also packed with nutrients, making it a fantastic choice for health-conscious eaters. In just 30 minutes, you can prepare this delightful salad that will impress your guests and elevate any meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- ½ cup uncooked quinoa
- 1 cup vegetable broth or water
- 5 oz arugula (about 5–6 cups)
- 1 can chickpeas (15 oz), drained
- 2 medium avocados, cubed
- 1 orange, chopped
- ½ cup slivered almonds
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp orange juice
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, crushed
- 1 tbsp dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook quinoa: Bring quinoa and vegetable broth to a boil in a saucepan. Cover and simmer for about 15-20 minutes until liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and let sit.
- Toast almonds: Spread slivered almonds on a sheet pan and toast under the broiler for about 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
- Make dressing: Whisk together olive oil, orange juice, lemon juice, garlic, dijon mustard, maple syrup, salt, and pepper in a bowl until smooth.
- Assemble salad: In a large bowl, mix arugula with half the dressing. Add quinoa, chickpeas, oranges, avocado, toasted almonds, and feta cheese. Drizzle remaining dressing on top.
- Serve: Toss gently to combine and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 10mg