Bright & Crunchy Arugula Salad with Lemon Olive Oil Dressing 🥗✨
If you’re craving something fresh, crunchy, and full of flavor, this arugula salad is a game-changer. It’s packed with peppery arugula, crisp orange bell peppers, cool cucumber, creamy avocado, and crunchy walnuts—all tossed in a zesty lemon olive oil dressing. Perfect as a light lunch, side dish, or even topped with protein for a heartier meal.
Let’s make this vibrant, nutrient-packed salad!
Ingredients
🥗 For the Salad:
- 4 cups fresh arugula
- 1 orange bell pepper, thinly sliced
- ½ cucumber, sliced into half-moons
- 1 avocado, diced
- ¼ cup walnuts, chopped (lightly toasted for extra flavor!)
🍋 For the Lemon Olive Oil Dressing:
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp honey (or maple syrup for vegan option)
- ½ tsp Dijon mustard
- ¼ tsp sea salt
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined. Set aside.
- Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, toss together the arugula, bell pepper, cucumber, and walnuts.
- Add the avocado: Gently fold in the diced avocado so it doesn’t get mashed.
- Dress it up: Drizzle the lemon olive oil dressing over the salad and toss lightly to coat.
- Serve & enjoy: Plate it up and dig in! For extra crunch, add more walnuts or a sprinkle of feta cheese.
💡 Pro Tip: Want to make it a meal? Top with grilled chicken, salmon, or chickpeas for added protein!
This salad is light, refreshing, and full of textures and flavors—perfect for a sunny day or a quick, feel-good meal. 🌿✨ Enjoy!!