Carrot Arugula Salad with Fig, Goat Cheese & Avocado

Beautiful carrot arugula salad with sweet dried figs, tangy goat cheese, creamy avocado, and crunchy walnuts is a delightful dish perfect for any occasion. This Carrot Arugula Salad with Fig, Goat Cheese & Avocado is not only visually appealing but also packed with flavor and nutrition. Whether you’re hosting a lunch gathering or looking for a quick side dish for dinner, this salad will surely impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Combination: The mix of sweet figs, tangy goat cheese, and creamy avocado creates a delightful taste experience.
• Nutrient-Rich: Packed with vitamins and minerals from fresh ingredients like arugula and carrots.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a main dish or as a side to complement any meal.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal cooking time, you’ll have this salad ready in no time.
• Meal Prep Friendly: This salad keeps well in the fridge for several days, making it perfect for leftovers.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this delicious salad, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment can make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large bowl or platter
• Grill or oven
• Skillet
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large bowl or platter: Ideal for mixing and serving the salad while allowing easy layering of ingredients.
• Grill or oven: Provides different cooking methods for the carrots, enhancing their flavor through grilling or roasting.
• Skillet: Perfect for toasting nuts to bring out their rich flavors before adding them to your salad.

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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 walnut 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

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

Step 1: Prepare the Carrots

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

Step 2: Cook the Carrots

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (around 400 degrees F).
2. Grill the carrots for 15-25 minutes until slightly tender, flipping halfway through.
3. Alternatively, roast them at 400 degrees F on a parchment-lined baking sheet for about 30 minutes.

Step 3: Toast the Walnuts

1. In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast walnuts by stirring occasionally until fragrant (about 5 minutes). Set aside.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, maple syrup, dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and warm water (add one tablespoon at a time until desired consistency is reached).

Step 5: Assemble the Salad

1. Place arugula on a large platter or keep it in a bowl.
2. Layer with grilled carrots, dried fig halves, toasted walnuts, goat cheese crumbles, avocado slices, and optional roasted chickpeas.

Step 6: Serve

1. Drizzle tahini dressing over the top.
2. Season with freshly ground salt and pepper before dividing into bowls.
3. Enjoy immediately! This salad keeps well for 2-4 days in the fridge.

With these easy steps and vibrant ingredients, your Carrot Arugula Salad with Fig, Goat Cheese & Avocado will be a hit wherever it’s served!

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

This vibrant carrot arugula salad is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways. Whether you’re enjoying it for lunch or as a side at dinner, here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your meal experience.

As a Main Dish

• Serve it alone for a light lunch. The combination of carrots, figs, and goat cheese makes for a satisfying meal.

With Grilled Chicken

• Pair the salad with grilled chicken for added protein. The savory flavor complements the sweetness of the figs beautifully.

On a Bed of Quinoa

• Layer the salad over cooked quinoa. This adds heartiness and makes it even more filling, perfect for a nutritious meal.

In a Wrap

• Use this salad as a filling in whole-grain wraps. It’s an easy way to enjoy on-the-go meals while keeping it healthy.

As an Appetizer

• Serve smaller portions in small bowls as an appetizer. Guests will appreciate the fresh flavors before the main course.

With Toasted Bread

• Accompany the salad with slices of toasted bread. This provides a nice crunch and balances the creamy avocado and goat cheese.

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

To elevate your carrot arugula salad, consider these helpful tips to ensure it shines on your table.

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh arugula and vibrant carrots for the best flavor and texture in your salad.

• Customize Your Toppings: Experiment with different nuts or seeds such as pecans or sunflower seeds to add variety in flavor and crunch.

• Adjust Dressings: Modify the maple tahini dressing by adding spices like cumin or chili powder for an extra kick that enhances overall taste.

• Serve Chilled: Let the salad sit in the fridge for about 15 minutes before serving. This allows flavors to meld together beautifully.

• Grill Carrots Perfectly: Ensure your grill is at medium-high heat so that carrots cook evenly without burning, achieving that perfect tenderness.

• Store Properly: Keep leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge to enjoy later while maintaining its freshness for up to four days.

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

Pairing side dishes with your carrot arugula salad can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options that complement its flavors perfectly.

1. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness aligns nicely with figs while providing a hearty side option.

2. Quinoa Pilaf: A light pilaf made from quinoa mixed with herbs offers additional protein and a nutty flavor profile.

3. Grilled Asparagus: Tender asparagus drizzled with lemon juice adds brightness and pairs well with earthy tones of the salad.

4. Crispy Chickpeas: Seasoned chickpeas roasted until crispy provide added texture and protein alongside your salad.

5. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers stuffed with rice and vegetables bring both nutrition and vibrant color to your plate.

6. Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles tossed with olive oil make for a refreshing addition that keeps things light.

7. Herbed Couscous: Fluffy couscous mixed with fresh herbs is quick to prepare and complements the flavors of your salad nicely.

8. Cauliflower Rice: This low-carb alternative can be flavored with spices or herbs, adding another layer of flavor without overwhelming your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Preparing a delicious Carrot Arugula Salad with Fig, Goat Cheese & Avocado can be simple, but there are common mistakes to watch out for.

• Boldly skipping the seasoning: Many forget to season the carrots before cooking. Always sprinkle salt and pepper to enhance their natural flavors.
• Boldly neglecting ingredient quality: Using stale or low-quality dried figs can impact sweetness. Always opt for fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best taste.
• Boldly overcooking the carrots: If grilled or roasted too long, carrots can become mushy. Keep an eye on them and test for tenderness periodically.
• Boldly ignoring dressing balance: A dressing that is too thick or too tangy can overwhelm the salad. Adjust the consistency with warm water and taste as you go!
• Boldly crowding the salad: Adding too many toppings can create a messy presentation. Layer ingredients neatly for an appealing look and balanced flavor in each bite.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• The salad will keep well for 2-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Carrot Arugula Salad with Fig, Goat Cheese & Avocado

• It’s not recommended to freeze this salad as it may alter texture and flavor, especially with fresh ingredients like avocado.

Reheating Carrot Arugula Salad with Fig, Goat Cheese & Avocado

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short increments (30 seconds), stirring in between until warm.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet on medium heat, stirring gently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making this tasty Carrot Arugula Salad with Fig, Goat Cheese & Avocado.

Can I use different greens in my Carrot Arugula Salad?

Yes! Feel free to substitute arugula with other greens like spinach or mixed salad greens for a different flavor profile.

How do I make this salad vegan-friendly?

To make it vegan, simply omit the goat cheese or replace it with a plant-based cheese alternative.

What other toppings work well with this Carrot Arugula Salad?

You could add sliced apples, nuts like pecans or almonds, or even some cranberries for extra sweetness and crunch!

Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prep all ingredients and store them separately. Combine just before serving for freshness.

How do I adjust the dressing’s flavor?

If you prefer a sweeter dressing, add more maple syrup. For tanginess, increase lemon juice slightly based on your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

The Carrot Arugula Salad with Fig, Goat Cheese & Avocado is not only colorful but also packed with flavors and textures that make it irresistible. Enjoy it as a light lunch or side dish! Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite nuts or seasonal fruits for an even more delightful experience.