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 combines fresh flavors and textures that make it an excellent choice for lunch or a side dish. The addition of maple tahini dressing elevates the taste, making it a standout option for gatherings or casual weekday meals.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh and Flavorful: The combination of ingredients creates a delicious medley of sweet, savory, and creamy flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
• Quick to Prepare: With only 20 minutes of prep time, this salad is great for busy days when you want something healthy without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Versatile Serving Options: Whether enjoyed as a main dish or a side salad, this recipe fits well into any meal plan or occasion.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to add or substitute your favorite nuts or greens to tailor the salad to your personal preferences.
• Nutritious and Filling: Packed with vitamins and healthy fats, this salad is not only satisfying but also nourishing.

Tools and Preparation

To make this delightful salad, you’ll need some specific tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.

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: Perfect for mixing and serving the salad, allowing easy layering of ingredients.
• Grill or oven: Essential for cooking the carrots to achieve that ideal tenderness and smoky flavor.
• Skillet: Used for toasting walnuts evenly, enhancing their flavor and crunchiness.
• Whisk: Great for blending the dressing ingredients smoothly without clumps.

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 walnuts 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.

Step 2: Cook the Carrots

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (about 400 degrees F).
2. Grill the carrots for 15-25 minutes total until slightly tender, flipping halfway through.
3. Alternatively, roast them at 400 degrees F for about 30 minutes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper if grilling isn’t an option.

Step 3: Toast the Walnuts

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

Step 4: Make the Dressing

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, maple syrup, dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
2. Gradually add warm water (1 tablespoon at a time) until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 5: Assemble the Salad

1. Add arugula to a large platter (or keep it in a large bowl).
2. Layer with grilled carrots, dried fig halves, toasted walnuts, goat cheese crumbles, avocado slices, and roasted chickpeas if using.

Step 6: Serve

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

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

This vibrant Carrot Arugula Salad with Fig, Goat Cheese & Avocado is not only visually appealing but also packed with flavors and textures. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

As a Main Course

• Serve this salad as a main dish for lunch or dinner. The combination of ingredients provides a satisfying meal that can stand alone.

With Grilled Chicken

• Add slices of grilled chicken on top for an extra protein boost. This pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the figs and the creaminess of the avocado.

Accompanying a Sandwich

• Pair the salad with your favorite sandwich for a delightful lunch combo. The freshness of the salad complements hearty sandwiches perfectly.

In a Mason Jar

• Layer the salad in a mason jar for an easy, portable lunch option. This keeps everything fresh and makes for an attractive presentation.

As a Side Dish

• Serve it alongside roasted meats or fish for a colorful side that adds brightness to any plate. Its flavors enhance savory dishes wonderfully.

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

To ensure you achieve the best flavor and texture in your Carrot Arugula Salad, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh arugula and ripe avocados enhance the overall taste. Always opt for high-quality produce whenever possible.
• Adjust dressing consistency: Depending on your preference, adjust the tahini dressing’s consistency by adding more water gradually until it reaches your desired thickness.
• Toast walnuts for added flavor: Toasting walnuts brings out their natural oils and enhances their taste. Just five minutes in a dry skillet can make a big difference.
• Experiment with toppings: Feel free to add other toppings like roasted chickpeas or sliced apples for added texture and flavor variety.
• Serve immediately: For the freshest taste, serve the salad right after assembling it. This prevents wilting of arugula and keeps all ingredients crisp.

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 delicious options:

1. Quinoa Pilaf: A nutty quinoa pilaf seasoned with herbs adds a wholesome touch to your meal.
2. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Crispy on the outside and tender inside, these sweet potatoes complement the salad’s flavors beautifully.
3. Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Colorful vegetable skewers bring smoky flavors that balance well with the sweetness of figs.
4. Hummus and Pita Chips: Creamy hummus served with crunchy pita chips makes for an excellent appetizer or snack that goes well with fresh salads.
5. Lentil Soup: A warm bowl of lentil soup not only offers comfort but also adds protein and fiber to your meal.
6. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers stuffed with rice or vegetables provide another layer of nutrition alongside your salad.
7. Garlic Bread: Crisp garlic bread can be a delightful addition that pairs nicely without overwhelming the dish’s freshness.
8. Couscous Salad: A light couscous salad made with herbs and lemon can add zest while keeping things nutritious and light.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Carrot Arugula Salad with Fig, Goat Cheese & Avocado, it’s easy to make a few mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls and how to steer clear of them.

• Using the wrong type of carrots: Fresh, crunchy carrots are essential for this salad. Opt for organic or locally sourced carrots when possible for the best flavor.
• Overcooking the carrots: Grilling or roasting the carrots should leave them slightly tender but still crisp. Keep an eye on them while cooking to prevent mushiness.
• Skipping the dressing: The maple tahini dressing adds a burst of flavor that ties all the ingredients together. Don’t skip it; make sure to whisk it well for a creamy consistency!
• Ignoring seasoning: A sprinkle of salt and pepper can elevate your salad significantly. Season each layer as you build your salad for maximum flavor.
• Not letting the walnuts cool: Toasting walnuts enhances their flavor, but they should be allowed to cool before adding them to the salad to maintain their crunch.
• Storing improperly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container. Ensure the dressing is stored separately to keep everything fresh.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Keep the dressing separate until ready to serve.

Freezing Carrot Arugula Salad with Fig, Goat Cheese & Avocado

• This salad is not recommended for freezing as it may affect texture and taste.
• Fresh ingredients like arugula do not freeze well.

Reheating Carrot Arugula Salad with Fig, Goat Cheese & Avocado

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish and heat in short intervals (30 seconds), stirring in between until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over medium heat in a skillet, adding a little water if necessary to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I substitute goat cheese?

Yes! You can substitute goat cheese with feta or a plant-based cheese alternative if preferred.

What can I add for extra protein?

You can add roasted chickpeas or grilled chicken for additional protein options that complement this salad well.

How long does the salad keep?

The Carrot Arugula Salad with Fig, Goat Cheese & Avocado stays fresh in the fridge for 2-4 days when stored properly.

Can I use other greens instead of arugula?

Absolutely! You can replace arugula with spinach or mixed greens based on your preference.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes! All ingredients used in this recipe are gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

The Carrot Arugula Salad with Fig, Goat Cheese & Avocado is not only visually appealing but also packed with flavors and textures. It’s perfect as a light lunch or a side dish for various meals. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite nuts, seeds, or proteins!