Carrot Arugula Salad with Fig, Goat Cheese & Avocado

Beautiful carrot arugula salad with fig, goat cheese, and avocado is a vibrant dish perfect for any occasion. This salad combines the sweetness of dried figs with the creaminess of avocado and the tangy flavor of goat cheese. It’s not only visually appealing, but it also offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors. Whether you’re hosting a lunch gathering or looking for an easy side dish to complement your dinner, this salad is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor Combination: The sweetness of figs pairs beautifully with the tangy goat cheese and creamy avocado.
• Nutrient-Rich Ingredients: Packed with vitamins from arugula, carrots, and healthy fats from avocado, it’s both tasty and nutritious.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a main dish or as a side. This salad fits well in various meal settings.
• Simple Preparation: With minimal cooking required, this recipe is quick to whip up—great for busy weekdays.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: This salad keeps well in the fridge for several days, making it ideal for meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

To create your carrot arugula salad with fig, goat cheese & avocado, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment can make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large bowl or platter
• Grill or oven
• Skillet
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Large bowl or platter: Ideal for mixing ingredients and serving the salad elegantly.
• Grill or oven: Provides versatility to cook carrots perfectly—grilling adds a smoky flavor while roasting enhances sweetness.
• Skillet: Useful for toasting walnuts to bring out their nutty flavor before adding them to the salad.
• Whisk: Essential for combining dressing ingredients thoroughly without clumps.

Ingredients

For the Carrots

• 4 large carrots, cut in half vertically and stems/tops removed
• 1 tablespoon avocado oil
• Freshly ground salt and pepper

For the Salad

• 5 ounces baby arugula
• ¾ cup dried fig halves
• ⅓ cup walnut halves and pieces
• ⅓ cup goat cheese crumbles
• 1 avocado, sliced
• ½ cup roasted chickpeas (optional, for extra protein)

Maple Tahini Dressing

• ¼ cup drippy tahini (I always use Soom Tahini)
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1-2 teaspoons pure maple syrup
• ½ teaspoon dijon mustard
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• 2-3 tablespoons warm water, to thin out a bit
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• Freshly ground black pepper

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Carrot Arugula Salad with Fig, Goat Cheese & Avocado

Step 1: Prepare the Carrots

1. Add vertically cut carrots to a large bowl or platter.
2. Drizzle with avocado oil and season with freshly ground salt and pepper.
3. Use tongs or clean hands to coat the carrots evenly.

Step 2: Grill or Roast Carrots

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400 degrees F).
2. Grill the carrots for 15-25 minutes total until slightly tender, flipping halfway through.
3. Alternatively, roast them at 400 degrees F on a parchment-lined baking sheet for about 30 minutes.

Step 3: Toast Walnuts

1. In a dry skillet over medium heat, add walnuts.
2. Stir occasionally until toasted and fragrant—this should take about 5 minutes.
3. Once done, set aside.

Step 4: Make Maple Tahini Dressing

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, maple syrup, dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Gradually add warm water (one tablespoon at a time) until you reach your desired dressing consistency.

Step 5: Assemble Your Salad

1. Place arugula on a large platter (or leave in a large bowl).
2. Layer with grilled carrots, dried figs, toasted walnuts, goat cheese crumbles, avocado slices, and roasted chickpeas if using.

Step 6: Dress and Serve

1. Drizzle tahini dressing over the salad generously.
2. Season lightly with freshly ground salt and pepper.
3. Divide into bowls or serve directly from the platter. Enjoy!

How to Serve Carrot Arugula Salad with Fig, Goat Cheese & Avocado

Carrot arugula salad with fig, goat cheese, and avocado is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a casual lunch, these serving suggestions will enhance your meal.

As a Main Dish

• Serve the salad on its own as a light main course for lunch. The combination of flavors and textures makes it satisfying and nutritious.

With Extra Protein

• Pair the salad with grilled chicken or tofu for added protein. This makes it a more filling meal without compromising the fresh taste.

On a Bed of Quinoa

• Serve the salad over a bed of cooked quinoa for an extra boost of fiber and protein. The nutty flavor of quinoa complements the salad beautifully.

In Wraps

• Use large lettuce leaves to wrap the salad ingredients for a fun handheld option. This is perfect for picnics or casual outings.

As Individual Appetizers

• Serve small portions in individual bowls or cups at gatherings. This makes it easy for guests to enjoy without needing utensils.

With Crusty Bread

• Accompany the salad with slices of crusty bread or baguette. The bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover tahini dressing.

How to Perfect Carrot Arugula Salad with Fig, Goat Cheese & Avocado

Perfecting your carrot arugula salad is all about balancing flavors and textures. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh arugula and ripe avocados to enhance flavor and nutritional value.
• Control Dressing Consistency: Adjust the tahini dressing by adding warm water slowly until you achieve your desired consistency.
• Toast Walnuts Carefully: Toast walnuts just until fragrant to add depth without burning them, which can lead to bitterness.
• Add Seasonal Fruits: Incorporate seasonal fruits like pears or apples for an additional layer of sweetness and texture.
• Experiment with Cheese: Try different cheeses like feta or blue cheese if you want to change up the flavor profile while keeping it creamy.
• Make Ahead: Prepare components separately but assemble just before serving to keep the salad fresh and crisp.

Best Side Dishes for Carrot Arugula Salad with Fig, Goat Cheese & Avocado

Pairing side dishes with carrot arugula salad can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some fantastic options that complement this vibrant salad perfectly.

1. Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Colorful skewers of seasonal vegetables add a smoky flavor that pairs well with the freshness of the salad.
2. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes provide a hearty side that contrasts nicely with the lightness of the arugula salad.
3. Chickpea Hummus: A creamy hummus served with pita chips offers additional protein and makes for an excellent dip alongside the salad.
4. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Baked bell peppers filled with rice or quinoa add both color and nutrition, making them an appealing side dish.
5. Sweet Potato Fries: Crunchy sweet potato fries bring sweetness that echoes the figs in your salad, enhancing overall flavors.
6. Garlic Bread: Warm garlic bread adds comfort and is perfect for scooping up any remaining dressing from your plate.
7. Couscous Salad: A light couscous salad mixed with herbs can serve as a refreshing counterpart to your flavorful carrot arugula mix.
8. Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes on skewers offer a simple yet elegant appetizer alongside your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Carrot Arugula Salad with Fig, Goat Cheese & Avocado, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes to avoid:

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season the carrots properly can lead to blandness. Always use salt and pepper generously to enhance the flavors.

• Not using fresh ingredients: Using stale or old ingredients can affect taste and texture. Opt for fresh arugula, ripe avocados, and quality goat cheese for the best results.

• Overcooking the carrots: Overcooked carrots can become mushy and lose their sweetness. Grill or roast them until just tender; they should retain a bit of bite.

• Ignoring dressing consistency: A dressing that is too thick will not coat your salad well. Gradually add warm water to achieve your desired consistency for the maple tahini dressing.

• Neglecting presentation: A salad that looks beautiful is more enticing. Layer your ingredients thoughtfully and consider drizzling the dressing attractively on top before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Keep the dressing separate until ready to serve for optimal freshness.

Freezing Carrot Arugula Salad with Fig, Goat Cheese & Avocado

• Freezing is not recommended due to the textures of the fresh ingredients.
• If you must freeze, consider only freezing grilled carrots and walnuts separately.

Reheating Carrot Arugula Salad with Fig, Goat Cheese & Avocado

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm the salad on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals on medium power until warmed through.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over low heat, stir gently until warmed; be careful not to overcook.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I customize the Carrot Arugula Salad with Fig, Goat Cheese & Avocado?

You can easily customize this salad! Add other nuts like almonds or pecans, or substitute feta cheese for goat cheese if desired.

How do I make this salad vegan?

To make a vegan version of Carrot Arugula Salad with Fig, Goat Cheese & Avocado, simply omit the goat cheese and replace it with a vegan cheese alternative or omit cheese altogether.

What can I serve with this salad?

This versatile salad pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, or as part of a vegetarian meal spread. It also makes a great side dish for barbecues or potlucks.

How long does this salad last in the fridge?

The Carrot Arugula Salad with Fig, Goat Cheese & Avocado lasts about 3-4 days in an airtight container when stored properly in the refrigerator.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! This salad is naturally gluten-free and can be enjoyed by those following a gluten-free diet without any modifications needed.

Final Thoughts

The Carrot Arugula Salad with Fig, Goat Cheese & Avocado is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that offers both nutrition and satisfaction. This refreshing dish is perfect for lunch or as a side at dinner. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients or dressings! Enjoy experimenting with this versatile recipe!