July 14, 2025

Fresh Arugula Summer Salad with Apple & Walnuts 🍏

Fresh Arugula Summer Salad with Apple & Walnuts 🍏

I’ve always loved salads—especially ones that feel fresh, vibrant, and full of life. Growing up in a Vietnamese household, herbs were everything. We’d pile them into soups, wrap them into spring rolls, and add them to nearly every meal. Freshness wasn't just a flavor—it was a way to feel alive, nourished, and balanced.

Arugula has become one of my favorite salad greens. It’s a little spicy, a bit bitter, and super bold—just the way I like it. It holds up really well against sweet and crunchy toppings, which makes it perfect for this summer salad that I’ve been making on repeat.

Whether you’re bringing a dish to a BBQ or just need something quick and satisfying, this arugula salad is light, healthy, and absolutely delicious.

🥗 Ingredients (Serves 3)

For the Salad:

2 cups arugula
1 apple, peeled and thinly sliced
1/4 cup walnuts, lightly crushed
3 tbsp raisins

For the Honey Mustard Dressing:

3–4 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp mustard
1 tbsp maple syrup or honey
1 tbsp mayo
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1/2 tbsp lemon juice

🥄 Directions

Make the Dressing – In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, mustard, maple syrup (or honey), mayo, garlic, oregano, vinegar, and lemon juice until smooth and creamy.
Toss the Salad – In a large bowl, gently combine the arugula, apple slices, walnuts, and raisins.
Dress & Serve – Drizzle your dressing over the salad just before serving. Toss to coat evenly and enjoy immediately while it’s crisp and fresh.

This salad is one of those simple recipes that feels fancy but takes barely any effort. The apples and raisins bring sweetness, the walnuts add crunch, and the dressing ties it all together with creamy, zesty goodness.

If you make this, let me know! I’d love to hear how you enjoy it—maybe with grilled chicken, at a summer picnic, or just on your lunch break in the sun. 💚

Enjoy!