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Fresh 5-Ingredient Spring Arugula Salad Recipe with Lemon and Candied Walnuts

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A quick and easy spring salad featuring peppery arugula, bright lemon, and sweet candied walnuts. Perfect for light lunches or side dishes with fresh, vibrant flavors.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 5 cups fresh arugula (about 150 grams), washed and dried
  • 1 cup walnuts (100 grams), roughly chopped
  • 1 large lemon, zested and juiced
  • 2 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup for vegan option)
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

Instructions

  1. Roughly chop 1 cup (100 grams) of walnuts. Heat a small skillet over medium heat and toast the walnuts gently for about 3 minutes until fragrant, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
  2. Lower the heat to medium-low. Drizzle 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of honey over the walnuts and stir continuously to coat evenly. Cook for an additional 2 minutes until the honey thickens and walnuts look glossy. Transfer to parchment paper to cool.
  3. Zest 1 large lemon to get about 1 teaspoon of zest, then juice the lemon to yield roughly 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of fresh juice. Set aside.
  4. Rinse 5 cups (150 grams) of fresh arugula under cold water. Use a salad spinner or pat dry gently with paper towels.
  5. In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons (45 ml) of extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Season lightly with salt and freshly ground black pepper if desired.
  6. In a large bowl, toss the arugula with the dressing until evenly coated. Add the candied walnuts and gently toss again.
  7. Serve immediately to keep the walnuts crunchy and arugula crisp.

Notes

Keep arugula dry to avoid soggy salad. Add candied walnuts just before serving to maintain crunch. Use fresh lemon juice for best flavor. For vegan version, substitute honey with maple syrup. Toast walnuts gently to avoid burning honey. Store candied walnuts separately if preparing ahead.

Nutrition

Keywords: arugula salad, spring salad, candied walnuts, lemon salad, easy salad, quick salad, healthy salad, 5-ingredient salad

Find it online: https://siennaspoon.com/fresh-5-ingredient-spring-arugula-salad-recipe-with-lemon-and-candied-walnuts-easy-and-perfect-for-spring/