Arugula Salad with Raspberry Vinaigrette

Name: Arugula Salad with Raspberry Vinaigrette
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 5 cups arugula, washed and dried; 1 cup fresh raspberries; 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese; 1/4 cup sliced almonds; 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced; 1/2 cup fresh raspberries; 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil; 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar; 1 tablespoon honey; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Clean Ideas

I love tossing together this Arugula Salad with Raspberry Vinaigrette because it’s incredibly refreshing and bursting with flavor. The peppery notes of arugula pair beautifully with the sweet-tart raspberry dressing, making it an ideal side dish for any meal. I've made this salad numerous times, especially during the summer months, and it never fails to impress. Plus, it's a breeze to whip up, taking only 15 minutes from start to finish, which is perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests.

Created by

Una Merrick

Last updated on 2026-01-08T11:10:36.414Z

When I started experimenting with salads, I wanted to create something that wasn’t just a bed of lettuce. The vibrant flavors in this arugula salad, especially from the homemade raspberry vinaigrette, really elevate it. I remember the first time I served it at a family gathering—everyone went back for seconds!

One tip I’ve learned is to let the vinaigrette sit for a bit before serving. This way, the flavors meld together beautifully, creating a dressing that’s simply irresistible. Trust me, this dish will be a favorite at any table!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Peppery arugula adds a unique depth of flavor
Homemade raspberry vinaigrette is fresh and tangy
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for any occasion

      

The Role of Arugula in the Salad

Arugula is more than just a leafy green; it contributes a unique peppery flavor that elevates this salad. Unlike milder greens such as spinach or lettuce, arugula's distinct taste pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the raspberry vinaigrette. This balance creates a refreshing contrast that invigorates the palate, making each bite exciting and flavorful. When selecting arugula, look for vibrant green leaves that are firm and free of blemishes to ensure optimal freshness in your salad.

In addition to its flavor, arugula is packed with vitamins A, C, and K, making this salad a nutritious choice. Its bold flavor also means you don’t need to use a lot; a generous handful provides adequate crunch and taste. While fresh arugula is best, you can substitute it with baby kale if needed, though keep in mind that the flavor profile will shift slightly toward earthiness rather than pepperiness.

Perfecting the Raspberry Vinaigrette

The homemade raspberry vinaigrette is the star of this salad, and it's incredibly easy to make. When blending the vinaigrette, ensure your raspberries are at room temperature; this enhances their natural sweetness and ensures a smoother blend. If you're short on time, you can use frozen raspberries, just be sure to thaw them in advance to achieve the right consistency. After blending, taste for seasoning; if you find it too tangy, add a bit more honey to adjust the sweetness.

If you'd like to experiment with flavors, consider adding fresh herbs like basil or mint into the vinaigrette. These herbs can complement the raspberry beautifully, providing a herbal note that rounds out the vinaigrette's profile. The vinaigrette can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to five days—just give it a good shake or stir before you dress the salad to remix the ingredients.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients for this delightful arugula salad:

Salad Ingredients

5 cups arugula, washed and dried
1 cup fresh raspberries
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/4 cup sliced almonds
1/4 red onion, thinly sliced

Raspberry Vinaigrette Ingredients

1/2 cup fresh raspberries
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon honey
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure everything is fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Here's how to prepare this delicious arugula salad:

Prepare the Vinaigrette

In a blender, combine the fresh raspberries, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and set aside.

Combine the Salad

In a large bowl, add the arugula, raspberries, feta cheese, sliced almonds, and red onion. Toss gently to combine.

Dress the Salad

Drizzle the raspberry vinaigrette over the salad and toss again until everything is well coated.

Serve

Transfer the salad to a serving platter or individual plates and enjoy immediately!

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but leftover vinaigrette can be stored in the fridge for a few days.

Pro Tips

For added crunch, consider roasting the sliced almonds for a few minutes before adding them to the salad.

Storage Tips

To keep your arugula salad fresh, it's best to assemble it right before serving. If you need to make it ahead of time, consider storing each component separately. The arugula can be kept in a breathable container in the fridge, while the vinaigrette can be stored in an airtight jar. This helps maintain the crispness of the salad and keeps the vinaigrette from softening the greens.

If you have leftover salad, store it in an airtight container for up to 24 hours. However, be aware that the arugula may wilt, and the flavors might meld together, which can alter the overall texture and taste. For best results, enjoy the salad the same day it's made.

Serving Suggestions

This Arugula Salad with Raspberry Vinaigrette makes an excellent side dish for grilled meats or roasted vegetables. Its vibrant colors and flavors make it a standout at barbecues or picnics. You can also serve it alongside a simple protein, like grilled chicken or fish, as a light, refreshing meal during the warmer months.

Want to make it a more substantial main dish? You can add cooked quinoa or brown rice for extra fiber and protein. Alternatively, toss in some grilled shrimp or roasted chickpeas for a satisfying and hearty salad. The flexibility of this salad allows you to adapt it based on what's available, making it a versatile addition to your meal repertoire.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen raspberries for the vinaigrette?

Yes, you can use frozen raspberries, but fresh raspberries provide a brighter flavor.

→ What can I substitute for feta cheese?

Goat cheese or a dairy-free cheese alternative work well in this salad.

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

It's best to assemble the salad just before serving to keep the arugula crisp, but you can prepare the vinaigrette in advance.

→ Is this salad vegan?

You can make it vegan by omitting the feta cheese or using a plant-based cheese alternative.