If you’re in the mood for something fresh, colorful, and packed with flavors that just burst in every bite, then this Strawberry Arugula Salad is exactly what you need today. This salad blends peppery arugula with juicy, sweet strawberries, crispy smoked turkey bacon, and creamy shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal), creating a perfect harmony of textures and tastes. Whether as a light lunch or a vibrant side dish, this Strawberry Arugula Salad is sure to brighten up your meal and bring a smile to your face.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Refreshing balance: The peppery arugula perfectly complements the sweet strawberries for a lively flavor combo.
Easy preparation: Quick to assemble with minimal ingredients, making it perfect for busy days.
Colorful presentation: Vibrant red berries against deep green leaves make this salad irresistible to the eyes.
Protein boost: Smoked turkey bacon adds a savory crunch that keeps you full and satisfied.
Versatile dish: Works wonderfully as a standalone meal or paired with your favorite main courses.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Strawberry Arugula Salad lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays an essential role, from the fresh greens providing a peppery base to the juicy berries offering bursts of sweetness and the smoked turkey bacon delivering a savory crunch. The shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal) adds a creamy texture that ties everything together, making this salad a delicious medley of tastes and textures.

Fresh arugula: Offers a peppery and slightly nutty flavor that forms the perfect salad base.
Ripe strawberries: Make sure they’re juicy and sweet for natural bursts of flavor in every bite.
Smoked turkey bacon: Adds a crispy, smoky note without overpowering the salad’s freshness.
Shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal): Brings a subtle creaminess that balances the salad beautifully.
Apple cider vinegar: For a tangy dressing that enhances all the flavors effortlessly.
Extra virgin olive oil: Delivers a smooth richness and ties the dressing together nicely.
Honey: Adds a touch of natural sweetness to the dressing.
Salt and pepper: To season the salad perfectly without masking natural flavors.

Variations for Strawberry Arugula Salad

This Strawberry Arugula Salad is incredibly adaptable, so feel free to customize it to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Whether you want to add more protein, try different dressings, or bring in new textures, this salad welcomes your creativity with open arms.

Nutty twist: Sprinkle walnuts or pecans for added crunch and a rich, earthy flavor.
Fruit swap: Substitute strawberries with blueberries or raspberries to create a fruity surprise.
Vegan option: Use plant-based smoked bacon alternatives and vegan mozzarella cheese.
Herbal boost: Add fresh basil or mint leaves for a fragrant boost that livens up the salad.
Grain addition: Toss in cooked quinoa or farro to make the salad more filling and hearty.

Fresh Strawberry Arugula Salad to Try Today

How to Make Strawberry Arugula Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Begin by washing the arugula thoroughly and patting it dry. Hull and slice the strawberries into halves or quarters depending on their size. Cook the smoked turkey bacon until crispy, then let it cool and chop into bite-sized pieces. Shred the mozzarella cheese if not pre-shredded.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper until the mixture emulsifies and becomes smooth.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

Place the arugula in a large salad bowl, add the sliced strawberries, sprinkle the smoked turkey bacon pieces, and then the shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal). Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the salad to individual plates or a serving bowl. For the best flavor, serve immediately to enjoy the crisp textures and fresh flavors at their peak.

Pro Tips for Making Strawberry Arugula Salad

Freshness matters: Use the freshest strawberries and arugula available for the best flavor and texture.
Don’t overdress: Add the dressing gradually to avoid soggy greens and keep the salad fresh.
Cook bacon well: Make sure smoked turkey bacon is crispy to add a satisfying crunch.
Serve promptly: This salad tastes best when served right after tossing to maintain crispness.
Slice strawberries evenly: Cut them uniformly to ensure consistent flavor in every bite.

How to Serve Strawberry Arugula Salad

Garnishes

Elevate your salad presentation by topping it with freshly cracked black pepper, a few fresh basil leaves, or even edible flowers for a pop of color and an elegant touch.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken breast, baked salmon, or even a hearty vegetable soup, offering a refreshing contrast to richer main dishes.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the salad in a hollowed-out watermelon half for summer parties, or dish it up in individual mason jars for a charming picnic-ready portion.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, but keep the dressing separate to prevent the greens from wilting.

Freezing

Because of the fresh ingredients and delicate textures, this salad is not suitable for freezing as it would lose its crispness and freshness.

Reheating

This salad is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature; reheating is not recommended since it can wilt the greens and soften the bacon undesirably.

FAQs

Can I use baby spinach instead of arugula?

Absolutely, baby spinach makes a milder alternative and still pairs wonderfully with the strawberries and smoked turkey bacon.

Is there a substitute for smoked turkey bacon?

You can replace smoked turkey bacon with smoked turkey slices or a plant-based alternative to keep that savory, smoky flavor.

How long does this salad stay fresh?

When stored properly with the dressing separate, the salad stays fresh for about 1 to 2 days.

Can I add nuts to the salad?

Yes, nuts like toasted almonds or pecans add a delightful crunch and complement the salad’s flavors nicely.

What dressing works best with Strawberry Arugula Salad?

A simple vinaigrette made with apple cider vinegar, olive oil, and honey enhances the salad without overpowering the fresh ingredients.

Final Thoughts

This Strawberry Arugula Salad is a true celebration of fresh, vibrant flavors and textures that are easy to prepare yet impressive to enjoy. Whether you’re looking to liven up your lunch or add a beautiful side dish to your dinner table, this salad hits all the marks. Give it a try today and delight in a dish that feels like a fresh breeze in every bite!

Strawberry Arugula Salad

Author: Eric
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

Strawberry Arugula Salad is a fresh, colorful, and flavorful dish that combines peppery arugula with juicy strawberries, crispy smoked turkey bacon, and creamy shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal). Perfect as a light lunch or vibrant side, this salad offers a delightful balance of textures and tastes with a tangy apple cider vinegar dressing enhanced by honey and olive oil.

Ingredients

Scale

Salad Ingredients

4 cups fresh arugula
1 cup ripe strawberries, hulled and sliced
6 slices smoked turkey bacon, cooked crispy and chopped
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal)

Dressing Ingredients

2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon honey
Salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients: Wash the arugula thoroughly and pat dry. Hull and slice the strawberries into halves or quarters depending on their size. Cook the smoked turkey bacon until crispy, then let it cool and chop into bite-sized pieces. Shred the mozzarella cheese if it is not pre-shredded.
Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper until the dressing emulsifies and becomes smooth.
Assemble the Salad: Place the arugula in a large salad bowl, add the sliced strawberries, sprinkle with smoked turkey bacon pieces, and then the shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal). Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
Serve and Enjoy: Transfer the salad to individual plates or a serving bowl. Serve immediately to enjoy the crisp textures and fresh flavors at their peak.

Notes

Use the freshest strawberries and arugula available for the best flavor and texture.
Add the dressing gradually to avoid soggy greens and keep the salad fresh.
Ensure the smoked turkey bacon is cooked until crispy to add a satisfying crunch.
Serve the salad promptly after tossing to maintain crispness.
Slice strawberries evenly to ensure consistent flavor in every bite.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Appetizers
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: American