Chic + Simple Side Salad

Can a salad be chic?  Is that even a "thing"? Well I certainly think so! This is my go-to salad when it comes to a side, but we also eat it as a main dish with a little grilled chicken tossed in. For the purposes of this post, it's my usual side salad. Every single time I serve it to someone that's never had it, it gets rave reviews. Plus, my family likes it and that's a win! It's five simple ingredients. Start with Baby Arugula. I would not substitute anything else here, the delicate, peppery flavored greens are a must to serve as the base. I use the entire bag as pictured above for my family of 4 but you could stretch it to 6 easily with smaller portions. Next, add 1/2 a diced avocado and then sprinkle with about 1/2 the container of crumbled goat cheese. The goat cheese is so mild and creamy and truly quite delicious. I always use the caramelized Spanish walnuts pictured above that are readily available at my local grocery store. They are not sweet at all. If your store does not have these, you could substitute regular walnuts and just toast them for a minute or two first to bring out the flavor. I'm sure the candied walnuts from Trader Joe's would work too as they are not overly sweet. You definitely don't want the super sweet, almost praline like type. I use about 1/2 the container. Lastly, I use Girard's Champagne Dressing.  Not too heavy but just enough. I have used this dressing for as long as I can remember. If you can't find it, you could substitute champagne vinegar with a little olive oil, salt and pepper. Brianna's also makes a French Vinaigrette that is very similar. Seriously, serve this anytime you need a side salad or a quick meal. I always keep goat cheese in my cheese drawer and my pantry stocked with the dressing and walnuts. Avocados are pretty much a staple too so all I have to do is pick up a bag of Arugula! I hope you enjoy it and I would love to hear your thoughts! I promise it won't disappoint!

RECIPE

1 bag or container Baby Arugula

1/2 diced avocado

1/2 container crumbled goat cheese

1/2 container caramelized Spanish walnuts or about 1/2 cup toasted walnuts

1 jar Girard's Champagne Dressing

Mix & toss with dressing. ENJOY!