Golden Glow Garden Salad: A Vibrant, Nutritious Delight

If you're looking for a fresh, flavorful, and nutritious salad that’s easy to make and bursting with color, look no further than my good ole’ Golden Glow Garden Salad. It’s packed with a variety of textures and flavors—from the peppery arugula to the tangy feta cheese, sweet carrots, and crunchy pumpkin seeds—this salad is as beautiful as it is delicious. It’s the perfect choice for a light lunch or a side dish to complement any meal. Feel free to follow along on the process here on YouTube.

Ingredients

Salad:

• 2 cups arugula (fresh and tender)

• 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced

• 1 medium tomato, diced OR 1/2 cup of grape tomatoes

• 1 medium carrot, julienned or shredded

• 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled

• 2 tablespoons pumpkin seeds (lightly toasted for extra flavor, optional)

For the Dressing:

• 6 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar

• 1/2 tablespoon honey (for a touch of sweetness)

• 1/2 tablespoon Dijon mustard (adds a zesty kick)

• Pinch of salt and black pepper (to taste)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Salad Ingredients

Start by washing and drying all of your vegetables thoroughly. Arugula tends to hold onto moisture, so make sure it’s well dried for the best texture.

• Arugula: Place 2 cups of arugula into a large mixing bowl. Arugula is the star of this salad, providing a peppery bite that balances well with the other ingredients.

• Onion: Slice the red onion very thinly. Red onions add a mild, sweet sharpness that works beautifully with the other ingredients.

• Tomato: Dice the tomato into bite-sized pieces. The juiciness of the tomato complements the crunchy elements in the salad, creating a satisfying contrast.

• Carrot: Using a grater or a julienne peeler, shred or slice the carrot into thin strips. Carrots add a natural sweetness and a vibrant orange color that brightens the salad.

• Feta Cheese: Crumble the feta cheese and sprinkle it over the salad. The creamy, salty feta balances the earthy flavors of the arugula and the sweetness of the honey in the dressing.

• Pumpkin Seeds: For extra crunch and a slightly nutty flavor, lightly toast the pumpkin seeds in a dry skillet for 2-3 minutes, then add them to the salad. This step is optional, but it does enhance the texture and flavor of the salad.

2. Make the Dressing

In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the ingredients for the dressing:

• Olive Oil: The base of the dressing, providing a smooth, rich texture.

• Red Wine Vinegar: A tangy component that adds brightness to the dressing.

• Honey: A small amount of honey balances the acidity of the vinegar with a subtle sweetness.

• Dijon Mustard: This gives the dressing a sharp, flavorful punch that ties everything together.

• Salt and Black Pepper: Season the dressing to taste, allowing the flavors to shine.

Whisk until the dressing is smooth and well combined.

3. Assemble the Salad

Once all of your ingredients are prepped, pour the dressing over the salad. Toss gently but thoroughly, ensuring each leaf of arugula and each vegetable is coated in the tangy dressing.

4. Serve and Enjoy

Plate the salad on two separate bowls or plates. You can garnish it with an extra sprinkle of feta or a few more pumpkin seeds for added visual appeal and crunch. Serve immediately, and enjoy the burst of flavors and textures in every bite!

Why You'll Love This Golden Glow Garden Salad

This Golden Glow Garden Salad isn’t just visually stunning, it's a powerhouse of nutrition as well! Arugula provides plenty of vitamin K and A, while the carrots are rich in beta-carotene. The feta cheese adds protein and calcium, and the pumpkin seeds deliver a healthy dose of magnesium, zinc, and fiber. Plus, the homemade balsamic dressing is fresh and free from any artificial additives, giving you full control over what you're eating.

Whether you're looking for a quick and healthy lunch, a side salad to accompany dinner, or a refreshing dish to enjoy on a warm day, this Golden Glow Garden Salad will not disappoint. Its balance of flavors, colors, and textures make it a standout dish that’s both satisfying and nourishing.

Pro Tips:

• Customization: Feel free to swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand. Try adding roasted beets, cucumber, or even avocado for a creamy twist.

• Meal Prep: You can prepare the components of this salad in advance, but be sure to dress it right before serving to keep the arugula fresh and crisp.

Enjoy your vibrant and delicious Golden Glow Garden Salad—your taste buds will thank you!

XOXO

Tiff