Roasted Fig and Arugula Salad

Name: Roasted Fig and Arugula Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4.0
Ingredients: 8 fresh figs, halved; 4 cups arugula; 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup walnuts, toasted; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper, to taste; Balsamic glaze, for drizzling

Highlighted under: Home Healthy Meals Collection

I absolutely adore making this Roasted Fig and Arugula Salad! The sweetness of the roasted figs pairs beautifully with the peppery arugula, creating a balance that’s both refreshing and indulgent. Each bite bursts with flavor, and the addition of creamy goat cheese elevates the dish further. Perfect as a light lunch or as a starter for a dinner party, this salad showcases how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special. Trust me, once you try it, this salad will find its way into your regular rotation!

Created by

Marlowe Sinclair

Last updated on 2026-01-08T11:18:46.784Z

When I first tried roasted figs, I was amazed by their natural sweetness and how they transform into a delightful treat when caramelized in the oven. This inspired me to create a salad that showcases their unique flavor. I paired them with arugula for a wonderful contrast in texture and taste, and topped it all off with a drizzle of balsamic glaze. The result is simply irresistible!

One tip I discovered is to roast the figs just until they are soft and slightly wrinkled, which really brings out their sweetness without turning them into a syrupy mess. It’s crucial to keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t overcook, as they can quickly go from perfect to overly mushy. Enjoy this salad to experience a burst of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        The sweetness of roasted figs complements the peppery arugula perfectly.
Creamy goat cheese adds a rich texture that enhances the dish.
Quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

      

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients:

Ingredients

8 fresh figs, halved
4 cups arugula
1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup walnuts, toasted
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
Balsamic glaze, for drizzling

Now that you have everything ready, let’s move on to the preparation!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your salad:

Roast the Figs

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the halved figs on the baking sheet, drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and sprinkle with a pinch of salt. Roast in the oven for 10 minutes until soft and slightly caramelized.

Prepare the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, combine the arugula, toasted walnuts, and crumbled goat cheese. Toss gently to combine, ensuring the cheese doesn’t break down too much.

Assemble the Salad

Once the figs are ready, add them to the salad mixture. Drizzle with the remaining olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss gently to combine once more.

Serve

Transfer the salad to a serving platter or individual plates. Drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving to add a touch of sweetness and tang. Enjoy your delicious Roasted Fig and Arugula Salad!

Now you are ready to enjoy your salad!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs like mint or basil. They can enhance the dish's freshness and add an aromatic touch.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried figs instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use dried figs, but they won't provide the same juicy texture. Soak them in warm water for about 15 minutes before use to soften them.

→ What can I substitute for goat cheese?

If you're not a fan of goat cheese, feta cheese or blue cheese would work well as alternatives.

→ How can I make this salad vegan?

To make it vegan, simply omit the cheese and replace the honey in the glaze with a vegan alternative.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

It's best to enjoy this salad fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.