Arugula salad with oranges

Arugula Salad with Oranges – A Fresh and Colorful Feast

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4

The history of this refreshing salad intertwines with culinary traditions from around the world, where fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors play an essential role. Arugula, with its slightly peppery taste, pairs perfectly with the sweetness of oranges, resulting in a salad that brings a splash of sunshine to every plate. It's an excellent choice for a quick lunch or as a side dish for a special dinner.

Ingredients:
- 1 container of arugula (about 150 g)
- 2 large oranges
- 3 ripe avocados
- 2 boiled eggs
- 1 grilled chicken breast
- 100 g feta cheese
- 1 handful of walnuts
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- A few drops of sesame oil

Preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing the arugula well under cold running water to remove any impurities. Once cleaned, let it drain in a colander.

2. Slicing the oranges: Peel the two oranges, making sure to remove the white pith, which can be bitter. Cut them into slices or cubes, depending on your preference. If you want to add a hint of acidity, you can use the juice of one orange to season the salad.

3. Preparing the avocado: Cut the three avocados in half, remove the pit, and use a spoon to scoop out the flesh. Cut the flesh into slices or cubes, being careful not to cut yourself, as avocado is a delicate fruit.

4. Boiling the eggs: Place the eggs in a pot of cold water, let them boil for 8-10 minutes until hard. After boiling, transfer them to a bowl of cold water to stop the cooking process. Peel and cut them into quarters.

5. Cooking the chicken breast: If you don't have cooked chicken breast, you can prepare it now. You can grill it or cook it in a pan, depending on your preference. Cut it into thin strips (julienne) for easy integration into the salad.

6. Chopping the walnuts: Chop the walnuts with a knife, but not too finely, to maintain a crunchy texture in the salad.

7. Assembling the salad: In a large bowl, add the arugula, orange slices, avocado, boiled eggs, chicken breast, and cubes of feta cheese. Sprinkle the walnuts and season with salt and pepper to taste.

8. Finalizing: Gently mix all the ingredients to avoid mashing the avocado and to keep the salad looking attractive. Finally, add a few drops of sesame oil for a subtle flavor and unique aroma.

9. Serving: Serve the salad in individual bowls. As a special detail, you can garnish each serving with slices of boiled eggs and orange slices for a vibrant and appetizing look.

Serving suggestions: This delicious salad pairs perfectly with a dry white wine or a cold citrus tea. You can also combine it with a slice of toasted bread or croutons to add a crunchy element.

Tips and variations: You can try adding other ingredients, such as olives or cherry tomatoes, for extra flavor. Also, for a vegan version, you can replace the feta cheese with tofu or vegan cheese.

Nutritional benefits: This salad is not only tasty but also healthy. Arugula is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, while avocado provides healthy fats essential for the body. Oranges are an excellent source of vitamin C, contributing to strengthening the immune system. Walnuts provide protein and antioxidants, making them ideal for a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I replace arugula with another type of salad? Yes, you can use lettuce or spinach, but arugula adds a distinct flavor.
- How can I keep the salad from wilting? It is recommended to prepare the salad shortly before serving to maintain the freshness of the ingredients.
- What else can I add? You can experiment with olives, radishes, or even berries for a sweet and tangy note.

Enjoy this arugula salad with oranges, a perfect choice to refresh yourself on hot days or to bring a touch of freshness to your meals!