Is arugula better for you than spinach?

Arugula and spinach are both nutrient-packed leafy greens, but they have different health benefits.

How do you refresh wilted arugula?

To refresh wilted arugula, submerge the leaves in a bowl of ice water for about 10-15 minutes. The cold water will help rehydrate and crisp them up. Afterward, pat them dry with a clean towel or use a salad spinner to remove excess water, and they’ll be as good as new!

What are the health benefits of arugula?

Arugula is a low-calorie leafy green packed with health benefits. It’s rich in vitamins A, C, and K, which support eye health, boost the immune system, and promote strong bones. Additionally, it contains antioxidants that fight inflammation, as well as calcium and folate for bone and brain health. You can read more about he benefits here.

ARUGULA AND SPINACH SALAD WITH CITRUS AND NUTS

Description

This arugula and spinach salad with citrus and nuts is about to become your new go-to salad. The fresh, crisp greens are balanced by the caramelized sweetness of the roasted cashews. To top it off, the homemade zesty lemon salad dressing ties everything together. Whether you're prepping it for a light lunch, a side for dinner, or even a main course, this salad will become a favorite.

Ingredients

Scale

FOR THE SALAD

3 cups baby spinach

3 cups baby arugula

1 cup mixed salad greens

1 orange sliced

1/4 red onion thinly sliced

FOR THE CARAMELIZED NUTS

2 cups raw unsalted cashews

1/4 cup maple syrup

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 tablespoon brown sugar

FOR THE SALAD DRESSING

1/4 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed is best)

1 teaspoon garlic powder (or a garlic clove minced)

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 ground black pepper

1 teaspoon maple syrup or honey

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

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Instructions

1. Get Your Nuts Roasting!

1. First things first – we need those nuts all caramelized and golden. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. In a bowl, toss your raw cashews with maple syrup, cinnamon, sea salt, and brown sugar.

3. Spread them out in an even layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet and pop them in the oven.

4. Bake for 5 minutes, give them a toss and bake for another 5 minutes until they’re perfectly golden and caramelized. Let them cool while you prep the rest of your salad – these crunchy little gems are worth the wait!

2. Whisk Up the Salad Dressing!

1. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the fresh lemon juice, garlic powder, Dijon mustard, salt, black pepper, and just a hint of maple syrup.

2. Slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil, whisking until smooth.

3. Pro tip: If you’re feeling fancy, shake it up in a mason jar for the easiest (and most satisfying) way to get your dressing perfectly mixed.

3. Toss It All Together!

1. In a large bowl, combine your baby spinach, baby arugula, and mixed greens. Add in the sliced orange and thinly sliced red onion.

2. Pour over that dreamy maple salad dressing and give it a gentle toss to coat everything.

4. Top It Off with Maple Roasted Cashews!

1. Once the cashews have cooled and are at their crispiest, sprinkle them generously over your salad. They add the perfect crunch that’ll have you reaching for seconds (or thirds!).

2. If you loved this recipe, leave a 5-star review and rating!

Notes

Switch up the greens: While this recipe uses baby spinach and baby arugula, feel free to mix in kale or any leafy greens you have on hand.

Love your leftovers: The maple-roasted cashews make an excellent snack on their own. Double the batch and save them for munching later!

Dressing: Only add the dressing once just before you serve the salad.

Category: Salads, Dressings
Cuisine: American