Discover a delightful fusion of flavors with our Strawberry and Arugula Salad with Manchego Fricos! This vibrant Italian-inspired salad combines the peppery bite of fresh arugula with the sweetness of juicy strawberries, all elevated by the rich, nutty flavor of Manchego cheese. Topped with crispy fricos that add a satisfying crunch, this dish is not just a feast for the eyes but a tantalizing treat for your taste buds. Perfect for a light lunch or an elegant dinner party, this salad will leave your guests raving and asking for seconds. Ready to impress? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups arugula
- 2 cups strawberries, sliced
- 1/2 cup Manchego cheese, grated
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette
- 1/2 cup shredded Manchego cheese for fricos
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with a silicone mat or parchment paper.
- For the Manchego fricos, create small circular mounds of shredded Manchego cheese on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Each mound should be approximately 2-3 inches in diameter and thin.
- Bake the cheese mounds for 5-7 minutes until the edges turn golden brown and the cheese becomes crisp and lacy. Remove from oven and let cool completely on the baking sheet to allow them to become crisp.
- Wash the arugula thoroughly and pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Place in a large salad bowl.
- Hull and slice fresh strawberries into thin, uniform pieces. Add sliced strawberries to the arugula.
- Sprinkle the grated Manchego cheese over the arugula and strawberries.
- Drizzle balsamic vinaigrette evenly over the salad, tossing gently to ensure all ingredients are lightly coated.
- Just before serving, carefully place the crisp Manchego fricos on top of the salad or around the edges of the serving plate for an elegant presentation.
- Serve immediately to maintain the crispness of the fricos and the freshness of the arugula.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, select ripe strawberries and fresh arugula. The quality of your ingredients will elevate the overall taste of the salad.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the Manchego fricos in advance. Once cooled, store them in an airtight container to keep them crisp until you're ready to serve.
- Experiment with Vinaigrettes: While balsamic vinaigrette pairs beautifully, feel free to try other dressings like a citrus vinaigrette or a honey mustard dressing for a different twist.
- Presentation Matters: For an eye-catching presentation, arrange the salad on a large platter and scatter the fricos around the edge. This not only looks stunning but also keeps the fricos crisp.
- Add Protein: To make this salad a complete meal, consider adding grilled chicken or chickpeas for an extra protein boost.
- Serve Immediately: To maintain the freshness of the arugula and the crispness of the fricos, serve the salad right after tossing it with the dressing.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 171kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 25mg
