Arugula and Spinach Salad

This Arugula and Spinach Salad is a perfect mix of bold flavors! Peppery arugula and spinach, with creamy avocado, cherry tomatoes, and sweet blueberries for a satisfying blend. The tangy grapefruit adds a zesty, citrus kick, while the pumpkin seeds and nutty hemp seeds bring just the right amount of texture. Tossed in a creamy, tangy tahini dressing, this salad is the perfect combo of fresh, vibrant ingredients. The flavors in this salad feel sort of wintery & I love making a fresh salad amongst all of the hearty dishes during the holidays! 🌿🥑🫐

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How to Make an Arugula and Spinach Salad

Ingredients

• 1 Bag Arugula
• 1 Bag Spinach
• 2 Avocados cut 
• 1 Cup Cherry Tomatoes halved
• 1 Cup Blueberries
• 1 Grapefruit peeled & cut
• 1/4 Red Onion cut
• 1/2 Cup Pumpkin Seeds 
• 1/4 Cup Hemp Seeds

Dressing Ingredients 

• 1/2 Cup Apple Cider Vinegar
• 1/4 Cup Honey or Maple Syrup
• 1/4 Cup Tahini
• 2 Lemons juiced
• 1/2 Cup Parsley 
• 2 Cloves Garlic

Step-By-Step Instructions

You’ll want to first prep the ingredients. Place the arugula and spinach in a large salad bowl, then add the avocado, cherry tomatoes, blueberries, grapefruit, and red onion on top. Sprinkle with pumpkin seeds and hemp seeds for extra crunch and nutrition.

Next, make the dressing. In a blender or food processor, blend together the apple cider vinegar, honey or maple syrup, tahini, lemon juice, parsley, and minced garlic. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary—if you prefer a sweeter dressing, add a bit more honey or maple syrup; for more tang, increase the vinegar or lemon juice.

When ready to serve, drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine, making sure every ingredient is coated with the creamy, tangy tahini dressing. Serve immediately for the freshest taste!

Alternative Ingredients for Arugula and Spinach Salad

This Arugula and Spinach Salad is easy to customize! Here are some alternative ingredients to suit different tastes, dietary needs, or whatever you have on hand!

• Leafy Greens: If you don’t have arugula or spinach, try using baby kale, mixed greens, or romaine for a different flavor profile. Baby kale will add a bit more texture, while mixed greens or romaine keep it mild and crunchy.
• Fruits: Switch out the grapefruit and blueberries for other seasonal fruits. Strawberries, apples, pears, or even pomegranate seeds can add a refreshing sweetness and a pop of color. Orange slices or mango chunks would also bring a delightful citrus twist.
• Crunchy Toppings: For extra crunch, swap pumpkin seeds with sunflower seeds, chopped almonds, or walnuts. Toasted pecans or hazelnuts add a rich, nutty flavor that pairs well with fresh greens.
• Creamy Elements: If you want more creaminess, try adding crumbled feta, goat cheese, or a sprinkle of Parmesan. For a dairy-free option, avocado slices or a handful of olives bring a satisfying, creamy texture.
• Dressing Variations: The tahini dressing is delicious, but you could also use a balsamic vinaigrette, lemon Dijon dressing, or even a simple olive oil and lemon juice mix. For extra zest, add some fresh herbs like basil, cilantro, or dill to the dressing.
• Protein Add-Ins: To make this salad more filling, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or salmon. For a plant-based option, try chickpeas, quinoa, or black beans, which add protein and fiber without overpowering the salad’s fresh flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Arugula and Spinach Salad

The combination of arugula and spinach is a classic choice for salads, adding a mix of peppery and mild flavors that pair beautifully with both fruits and veggies. Here’s why this Arugula and Spinach Salad should be on winter salad menu!

• Nutrient-packed: Arugula and spinach are loaded with vitamins A, C, and K, along with iron and calcium.
• Antioxidant-rich: The addition of blueberries and grapefruit gives this salad a healthy dose of antioxidants.
• Balanced and delicious: Creamy avocado and a tangy homemade tahini dressing bring everything together, creating a satisfying meal that’s as tasty as it is nourishing.

Health Benefits of Arugula and Spinach Salad

Not only does this Arugula and Spinach Salad taste amazing, but it’s also a powerhouse of nutrients. Arugula is a fantastic source of antioxidants and helps support healthy skin and bones, thanks to its high vitamin K content. Spinach adds iron and fiber, it may help support digestive health and boost energy levels. Meanwhile, avocado and pumpkin seeds provide healthy fats, blueberries are loaded with antioxidants, and grapefruit is known for its vitamin C. This salad is not only delicious but also gives your body a boost of essential nutrients!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this Arugula and Spinach Salad ahead of time?
Yes! To keep the salad fresh, prepare the greens, fruits, and vegetables in advance but store them separately. Wait to add the dressing until just before serving to prevent the greens from wilting.

What can I substitute for arugula or spinach?
If you don’t have arugula or spinach, other leafy greens like baby kale, mixed spring greens, or even romaine can work well. Keep in mind that these greens may have a slightly different flavor and texture, but they’ll still create a delicious base for the salad.

How can I make this Arugula and Spinach Salad vegan?
This salad is already vegan-friendly if you use maple syrup instead of honey in the dressing. You can also add extra plant-based proteins like chickpeas or tofu for a heartier vegan meal.

Can I add protein to this salad?
Absolutely! This salad pairs well with grilled chicken, salmon, or shrimp. For plant-based protein options, consider adding chickpeas, lentils, or quinoa.

What are some other fruits that go well in an arugula and spinach salad?
Besides grapefruit and blueberries, try adding strawberries, raspberries, apple slices, or even pear. These fruits add natural sweetness and pair wonderfully with the tangy dressing.

Can I use a different dressing for this salad?
Yes! While the tahini dressing is a great match, a simple balsamic vinaigrette, lemon vinaigrette, or your favorite dressing work perfectly!

How long does this Arugula and Spinach Salad stay fresh?
Once dressed, the salad is best enjoyed immediately. If you need to store leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one day, though the greens may start to wilt. Store the dressing separately to keep the salad fresher for longer.

Enjoy Your Arugula and Spinach Salad

This Arugula and Spinach Salad is a fantastic, nutrient-dense option when you want something quick, tasty, and full of health benefits. The balance of sweet, tangy, and creamy flavors makes this salad truly unforgettable. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite fruits, veggies, and toppings. Give it a try and see how this delicious combination of arugula and spinach can elevate your salad game! Have the sweetest day & tag me on Instagram when you make this recipe! @entirelyemmy

Here’s another one of my favorite Winter salads—Beet Goat Cheese Salad. ❤️