Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with a salad that's not just a side dish, but a culinary adventure! This Orange Red Onion Gorgonzola and Arugula Salad is a symphony of flavors that will transform your perception of what a salad can be. Imagine crisp arugula dancing with sweet orange segments, punctuated by the bold punch of Gorgonzola and the subtle bite of red onion - this isn't just a salad, it's a gourmet experience waiting to happen right in your own kitchen.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups arugula
- 1 orange, segmented
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup Gorgonzola cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the orange by carefully segmenting it: Cut off the top and bottom of the orange, then stand it upright and slice away the peel and white pith using a sharp knife, following the curve of the fruit.
- Using a paring knife, remove the orange segments by cutting between the membranes, allowing the segments to fall into a small bowl. Set aside.
- Thinly slice the red onion using a sharp knife, creating delicate, translucent half-rings. If the onion flavor is too strong, soak the slices in cold water for 5 minutes to mellow the sharpness.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to create the dressing. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- In a large salad bowl, spread the fresh arugula leaves, creating a vibrant green base for the salad.
- Gently scatter the orange segments over the arugula, ensuring even distribution.
- Sprinkle the thinly sliced red onion over the salad.
- Crumble the Gorgonzola cheese over the top, allowing some larger chunks for texture and flavor contrast.
- Drizzle the prepared balsamic vinaigrette evenly over the salad just before serving.
- Toss the salad lightly to combine all ingredients, being careful not to bruise the arugula leaves.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the crisp arugula and fresh flavors at their peak.
Tips
- Orange Segmenting Secrets: Use a sharp, serrated knife for clean orange segments and minimize bitter pith.
- Onion Hack: If you find raw onions too sharp, soak sliced onions in cold water for 5 minutes to mellow their intensity.
- Cheese Tip: For the best Gorgonzola flavor, let it come to room temperature before crumbling.
- Dressing Wisdom: Always dress the salad just before serving to keep the arugula crisp and prevent wilting.
- Flavor Balance: Taste your dressing and adjust salt and pepper to complement the strong Gorgonzola cheese.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 20mg
