Blackberry arugula salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that combines peppery arugula greens with juicy blackberries, crumbled cheese, and a light sprinkle of seasonal seeds. Tossed in a sweet and fruity blackberry vinaigrette, this salad is infused with rich, sweet, and peppery flavors. This delightful salad makes a great side dish or light meal, perfect for celebrating the flavors of the season.

Ingredients for Blackberry Arugula Salad

• Arugula: A leafy green with a peppery, slightly bitter taste. Add a distinct flavor and texture.
• Microgreens (Rainbow): Packed with intense flavors and nutrients, add a fresh and delicate touch.
• Blackberries: Add sweetness and a pleasing texture. Rich in antioxidants, vitamins C and K.
• Mini Cucumbers: A hydrating vegetable with high water content; add crunchiness and juiciness.
• Merlot Cheese: Brings sweetness and fruity notes from Merlot wine, with a hint of berry flavor.
• Pumpkin Seeds (aka pepitas): Bring a rich, savory taste with a nutty flavor and add crunchiness.
• Blackberry vinaigrette is a sweet and fruity dressing that perfectly adds a rich taste to the dish.

Blackberry Arugula Salad Recipe

• 4 cups (120g) fresh arugula greens
• 1 cup (150g) organic fresh blackberries
• 1/2 cup (60g) crumbled Sartori Cheese BellaVitano Merlot or any cheese of choice
• 1/2 cup (30g) microgreens (rainbow mix, if available)
• 1/2 cup (75g) mini cucumbers, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup (35g) pumpkin seeds (pepitas), toasted
• Dressing: 1/2 cup (120ml) blackberry vinaigrette recipe, or any dressing of choice

Recommended Equipment

• Coupe Platter: A coupe platter or serving plate is ideal for beautiful plating.

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How to Make Blackberry Arugula Salad

Assemble the Salad: Gently toss the arugula and microgreens, then arrange them on a serving plate. Top with blackberries and cucumber slices.

➤ Chef Tips: For added sweetness, try adding sliced apples or pears. Drizzle them with lemon juice to prevent browning.

Add Toppings: Sprinkle crumbled cheese and toasted pumpkin seeds over the top. If using raw pumpkin seeds, toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until they start to pop and become fragrant. This enhances their flavor and crunch.

➤ Chef Tips: Sartori Cheese BellaVitano Merlot is a semi-hard, unique, and flavorful cheese that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of blackberries and the peppery bite of arugula.

Dress the Salad: Just before serving, drizzle the blackberry vinaigrette over the salad. Toss gently to combine, ensuring the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.

Serve: This salad can be served as a light meal on its own or paired with grilled chicken, roasted potatoes, or a crusty bread on the side. It also makes a delightful side dish for a more extensive meal, complementing dishes with similar fresh and fruity flavors.

Storage and Serving

Make-Ahead: Keep the arugula and microgreens in one container; they can be refrigerated for up to 4 days. Store the blackberries in another container. To maintain their texture, keep the cheese and pumpkin seeds separate. The cheese can be stored for up to a week, while the toasted pumpkin seeds can last for about a month. The vinaigrette can be kept in the fridge for up to a week. Assemble the salad when ready to serve.

Storage: Store any leftover salad in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2-3 days. Refrigerate the vinaigrette separately in a sealed jar or container for up to a week.

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