Arugula Salad With Bacon Dates Almonds And Parmesan Recipe

This vibrant arugula salad is a flavor explosion! Sweet Medjool dates, crunchy toasted almonds, salty crispy bacon, and sharp parmesan cheese are tossed in a warm bacon vinaigrette for a sophisticated yet easy weeknight meal. Inspired by a Real Simple recipe (October 2006), this updated version is sure to become a new favorite.

Prep Time 10 mins
Cook Time 18 mins
Calories 204.6 kcal
Protein 15g
Rating 5.0 (2 Reviews)
Arugula Salad With Bacon Dates Almonds And Parmesan

Recipe Actions

Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Arugula Salad With Bacon Dates Almonds And Parmesan

  • 4 slices bacon
  • 5 ounces arugula
  • 4 Medjool dates (pitted and roughly chopped)
  • Toasted Almond
  • Parmesan Cheese
  • Balsamic Vinegar
  • Dijon Mustard
  • Kosher Salt
  • Black Pepper
  • Olive Oil

How to Make Arugula Salad With Bacon Dates Almonds And Parmesan

  1. Cook bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook 4 slices of bacon until crispy, about 8 minutes. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
  2. Prepare vinaigrette: Pour 2 tablespoons of bacon drippings into a small bowl. Add 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and 2 tablespoons olive oil. Whisk until emulsified.
  3. Assemble salad: In a large bowl, combine 5 ounces arugula, 4 Medjool dates (pitted and roughly chopped), 1/4 cup slivered almonds (toasted), and 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese.
  4. Dress and serve: Drizzle the warm bacon vinaigrette over the salad and gently toss to combine. Divide the salad among plates. Crumble the reserved bacon over the top and serve immediately.

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Chef's secret: layers of flavor make a dish truly memorable! Consider what a little extra something could bring – perhaps a touch of acidity like a good vinegar or citrus zest, a hint of smokiness from paprika, a bit of umami from mushrooms or soy sauce, or a sprinkle of toasted nuts for texture. Experiment and taste as you go!

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

15 g

Sugar

29g

Fat

23g

Carbs

3g