30+ Savory Valentine’s Day Arugula Salad Recipes to Celebrate

Valentine’s Day is all about sharing love, and what better way to show your affection than by preparing a delicious, vibrant salad?

Arugula, with its peppery bite and rich nutritional profile, is the perfect green for crafting a unique, flavorful salad that will impress your significant other, friends, or family.

Whether you’re looking for a refreshing side dish or a light main course, these 30+ Valentine’s Day Arugula Salad Recipes will offer something for every palate.

From sweet fruit and nut combinations to savory, cheesy blends, these salads are designed to bring both love and flavor to your special day.

Explore these recipes and let the green goodness of arugula be the star of your celebration!

30+ Savory Valentine’s Day Arugula Salad Recipes to Celebrate

This Valentine’s Day, elevate your celebration with a healthy and indulgent twist on the traditional salad.

Arugula is a versatile green that pairs beautifully with a variety of ingredients, from tangy cheeses and crunchy nuts to sweet fruits and rich dressings.

With 30+ Valentine’s Day Arugula Salad Recipes at your disposal, you’ll have no shortage of creative and delicious options to delight your loved ones.

Whether you’re preparing a romantic dinner for two or a festive gathering, these salads are sure to impress and add a touch of freshness to the festivities.

Let the love flow from the kitchen to the table with these irresistible arugula salad recipes!

Arugula & Strawberry Balsamic Salad

This vibrant arugula salad combines the peppery flavors of fresh arugula with the sweetness of ripe strawberries. A tangy balsamic vinaigrette ties the ingredients together, creating a refreshing, yet sophisticated salad perfect for a Valentine’s Day dinner. The addition of candied walnuts adds a delightful crunch, making every bite more exciting.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups fresh arugula
• 1 cup strawberries, sliced
• 1/2 cup candied walnuts
• 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese
• 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
• 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 tbsp honey
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the arugula, sliced strawberries, candied walnuts, crumbled goat cheese, and red onion.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving. Toss gently to coat the ingredients.
4. Serve immediately for the best freshness and flavor.

This Arugula & Strawberry Balsamic Salad is a perfect balance of sweet and savory, making it an ideal choice for a romantic Valentine’s Day meal. The combination of creamy goat cheese, crunchy walnuts, and vibrant strawberries offers a sensory experience that enhances the meal. It’s a light yet satisfying dish that will surely impress your special someone.

Warm Arugula & Bacon Salad with Maple Dressing

Warm and comforting, this arugula salad is paired with crispy bacon and roasted sweet potatoes, making it a heartwarming Valentine’s Day option. The maple dressing brings a slight sweetness to the salad, perfectly balancing the saltiness of the bacon and the richness of the roasted vegetables.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups fresh arugula
• 6 strips of bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and cubed
• 1/2 red onion, sliced thinly
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cubed sweet potato with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast for about 20 minutes or until tender.
2. While the sweet potatoes are roasting, cook the bacon until crispy, then crumble it.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
4. In a large bowl, add the arugula, roasted sweet potatoes, crumbled bacon, and red onion.
5. Drizzle the dressing over the salad, tossing gently to combine. Serve warm.

This Warm Arugula & Bacon Salad with Maple Dressing offers a delicious contrast of textures and flavors. The warmth of the roasted sweet potatoes and crispy bacon creates a cozy vibe, while the maple dressing provides a sweet contrast. This salad is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a comforting, heartfelt dish for a special Valentine’s Day celebration.

Arugula & Pomegranate Salad with Lemon-Honey Vinaigrette

This colorful arugula salad celebrates the fresh, vibrant flavors of winter with the tartness of pomegranate seeds and the crispness of fresh arugula. The lemon-honey vinaigrette adds a refreshing citrusy sweetness, making this dish light yet flavorful—a perfect addition to a Valentine’s Day meal.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups fresh arugula
• 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
• 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/2 cup cucumber, thinly sliced
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp honey
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large salad bowl, combine the arugula, pomegranate seeds, toasted pine nuts, crumbled feta, and cucumber slices.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad just before serving and toss gently to coat all the ingredients.

The Arugula & Pomegranate Salad with Lemon-Honey Vinaigrette offers a fresh and zesty way to celebrate Valentine’s Day. The combination of the slightly peppery arugula, sweet pomegranate seeds, and tangy feta provides a delightful contrast in flavors and textures. This salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also a refreshing and light choice to complement your Valentine’s Day meal.

Arugula & Pear Salad with Walnuts and Gorgonzola

This elegant salad combines the nutty, slightly bitter flavor of arugula with the sweetness of fresh pears, crunchy walnuts, and the bold taste of creamy Gorgonzola. Tossed in a simple vinaigrette of olive oil, lemon, and honey, this salad is a perfect mix of flavors and textures, making it an ideal dish for a romantic Valentine’s Day meal.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups fresh arugula
• 2 ripe pears, sliced
• 1/4 cup walnuts, toasted
• 1/4 cup Gorgonzola cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp honey
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the arugula, sliced pears, toasted walnuts, and crumbled Gorgonzola cheese.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper.
3. Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to combine.
4. Serve immediately for a fresh and vibrant dish.

This Arugula & Pear Salad with Walnuts and Gorgonzola is a sophisticated dish that brings together a variety of rich flavors and textures. The sweetness of the pears pairs wonderfully with the sharp, creamy Gorgonzola, while the walnuts provide a crunchy contrast. It’s a refined, elegant addition to your Valentine’s Day table that’s sure to delight your loved one.

Arugula & Avocado Salad with Citrus Dressing

This light, creamy salad features smooth avocado and peppery arugula, perfectly complemented by a zesty citrus dressing. The addition of sliced red bell pepper adds crunch and color, while the citrus dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the rich avocado. It’s a simple, yet flavorful, salad that’s perfect for a romantic Valentine’s Day dinner.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups fresh arugula
• 1 ripe avocado, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup sliced almonds, toasted
• 2 tbsp fresh orange juice
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the arugula, sliced avocado, red bell pepper, and toasted sliced almonds.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the orange juice, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Drizzle the citrus dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.
4. Serve immediately as a light and vibrant starter or side dish.

The Arugula & Avocado Salad with Citrus Dressing is an incredibly refreshing and creamy dish that balances the peppery arugula with the smoothness of avocado. The citrus dressing adds a bright, zesty note that enhances the flavors of the vegetables. This salad is a light, healthy, and flavorful option for a Valentine’s Day meal, offering both elegance and simplicity.

Arugula & Roasted Beet Salad with Goat Cheese

This earthy salad features the rich, roasted flavor of beets paired with fresh, peppery arugula and creamy goat cheese. The addition of balsamic glaze and crunchy sunflower seeds makes this salad a standout dish that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious. The perfect balance of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors makes it an excellent choice for a memorable Valentine’s Day celebration.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups fresh arugula
• 2 medium beets, roasted and sliced
• 1/4 cup goat cheese, crumbled
• 2 tbsp sunflower seeds, toasted
• 2 tbsp balsamic glaze
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Wrap the beets in foil and roast for about 40-45 minutes, or until tender. Once done, peel and slice them.
2. In a large bowl, combine the arugula, roasted beets, crumbled goat cheese, and sunflower seeds.
3. Drizzle olive oil and balsamic glaze over the salad. Toss gently to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately.

This Arugula & Roasted Beet Salad with Goat Cheese is a vibrant and flavorful dish that highlights the earthy sweetness of roasted beets and the creamy tang of goat cheese. The balsamic glaze adds a touch of sweetness and acidity, enhancing the overall flavor. This salad is a great choice for a Valentine’s Day meal, offering a perfect balance of colors, textures, and tastes that will make the occasion feel even more special.

Arugula & Citrus Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing

A burst of refreshing citrus flavors, combined with the peppery bite of fresh arugula, makes this salad a bright and zesty choice for Valentine’s Day. The poppy seed dressing adds a creamy and slightly sweet contrast to the tangy citrus, creating a balanced dish that is both light and vibrant. This salad is perfect for setting the tone of a fresh and lively romantic meal.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups fresh arugula
• 1 orange, peeled and segmented
• 1 grapefruit, peeled and segmented
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup poppy seeds
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp honey
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the arugula, orange segments, grapefruit segments, and red onion.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, poppy seeds, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Drizzle the poppy seed dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat the ingredients.
4. Serve immediately for the best texture and freshness.

This Arugula & Citrus Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing offers a bright, refreshing, and slightly sweet combination of flavors. The citrus fruits bring a tangy note, while the creamy poppy seed dressing complements the peppery arugula. It’s a vibrant and easy-to-make salad that adds a touch of elegance and freshness to your Valentine’s Day celebration.

Arugula & Tomato Caprese Salad with Balsamic Reduction

This Italian-inspired arugula salad combines the fresh, sweet flavors of ripe tomatoes and creamy mozzarella with the peppery notes of arugula. Drizzled with a balsamic reduction and olive oil, this salad is a sophisticated and easy-to-make dish that captures the essence of simplicity, perfect for a romantic evening.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups fresh arugula
• 2 large tomatoes, sliced
• 1/2 cup fresh mozzarella, torn into chunks
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp balsamic reduction
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the arugula, tomato slices, fresh mozzarella, and basil leaves.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic reduction.
3. Toss gently to combine, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately as a fresh and delicious appetizer or side dish.

The Arugula & Tomato Caprese Salad with Balsamic Reduction is a light, fresh, and flavorful dish that highlights the richness of mozzarella, the sweetness of tomatoes, and the peppery bite of arugula. The balsamic reduction adds a sweet and tangy finishing touch that perfectly complements the simple ingredients. This salad is a wonderful choice for a romantic dinner, offering a classic yet elevated combination of flavors.

Arugula & Chickpea Salad with Tahini Dressing

This hearty and healthy salad features protein-packed chickpeas paired with the peppery flavor of fresh arugula. The creamy tahini dressing provides a rich, nutty contrast that complements the earthy chickpeas and the freshness of the greens. It’s an excellent choice for a filling yet light Valentine’s Day salad that satisfies both the taste buds and the stomach.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups fresh arugula
• 1 cup cooked chickpeas (or canned, drained and rinsed)
• 1/4 cup cucumber, sliced
• 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
• 3 tbsp tahini
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp water (if needed to thin dressing)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the arugula, chickpeas, cucumber slices, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, and water (if needed) to reach a smooth, pourable consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Drizzle the tahini dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
4. Serve immediately for a deliciously satisfying meal.

The Arugula & Chickpea Salad with Tahini Dressing is a rich and satisfying salad that brings together earthy chickpeas, fresh vegetables, and a creamy, nutty dressing. It’s a filling yet light choice that pairs beautifully with the peppery notes of arugula, offering a healthy and hearty dish for your Valentine’s Day meal. The tahini dressing brings an indulgent richness without being heavy, making it the perfect complement to this vibrant salad.

Arugula & Pomegranate Salad with Feta and Honey Vinaigrette

This festive salad is a delightful combination of the peppery bite of arugula, the sweet tartness of pomegranate seeds, and the creamy richness of feta cheese. The honey vinaigrette ties the ingredients together with a touch of sweetness and tang, making it a perfect addition to any Valentine’s Day celebration. The vibrant colors of the pomegranate and feta also make this salad visually stunning.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups fresh arugula
• 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
• 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup walnuts, toasted
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp honey
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the arugula, pomegranate seeds, crumbled feta, and toasted walnuts.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper.
3. Drizzle the honey vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to combine.
4. Serve immediately as a fresh, tangy, and satisfying dish.

The Arugula & Pomegranate Salad with Feta and Honey Vinaigrette is an elegant, vibrant salad that’s perfect for a romantic dinner. The sweetness of the pomegranate and honey vinaigrette contrasts beautifully with the peppery arugula, while the feta adds a creamy, salty element. It’s a refreshing and visually stunning dish that will impress your loved one on Valentine’s Day.

Arugula & Roasted Sweet Potato Salad with Maple Dressing

This warm and comforting salad is perfect for a cozy Valentine’s Day meal. The sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes contrasts beautifully with the peppery arugula, and the maple dressing adds a rich, slightly sweet glaze that ties the flavors together. This hearty salad can be served as a main course or a side dish and offers a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and earthy flavors.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups fresh arugula
• 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 tbsp maple syrup
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cubed sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast for 25-30 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
3. In a large bowl, combine the arugula and roasted sweet potatoes.
4. Drizzle the maple dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
5. Serve immediately for a warm, comforting dish.

The Arugula & Roasted Sweet Potato Salad with Maple Dressing offers a delightful combination of warm, earthy sweet potatoes and fresh, peppery arugula. The maple dressing adds a deliciously sweet and tangy flavor, making this salad perfect for a cozy, romantic meal. Whether served as a side or a main, it’s a wonderful choice for Valentine’s Day, offering both warmth and comfort.

Arugula & Bacon Salad with Parmesan Crisps

This savory, slightly indulgent salad combines crispy bacon with the peppery freshness of arugula and the rich, umami flavor of Parmesan crisps. The combination of salty, crispy bacon and crunchy Parmesan adds texture and depth to the salad, while the simple vinaigrette allows the flavors to shine. Perfect for a romantic dinner, this salad offers a satisfying and luxurious twist on a classic greens dish.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups fresh arugula
• 4 strips of bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, finely grated
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the grated Parmesan cheese in a thin layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 5-7 minutes, or until golden and crisp. Let cool and break into pieces.
2. In a large bowl, combine the arugula and crumbled bacon.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
4. Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to coat.
5. Top the salad with Parmesan crisps and serve immediately.

The Arugula & Bacon Salad with Parmesan Crisps is a flavorful and indulgent salad that combines the richness of bacon and Parmesan with the freshness of arugula. The Parmesan crisps add a delightful crunch, making this salad both satisfying and luxurious. This salad makes a perfect start to a Valentine’s Day dinner, offering a balanced mix of flavors and textures that will make the evening feel special.

Arugula & Pear Salad with Blue Cheese and Walnuts

This elegant salad combines the sweetness of ripe pears with the sharp, creamy richness of blue cheese, complemented by crunchy walnuts and the peppery freshness of arugula. The addition of a simple balsamic vinaigrette pulls all the flavors together, making this salad a perfect choice for a sophisticated and romantic Valentine’s Day meal. It’s a delicious balance of savory, sweet, and crunchy elements that will elevate any meal.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups fresh arugula
• 2 ripe pears, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup blue cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup walnuts, toasted
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 tsp honey
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the arugula, pear slices, blue cheese, and toasted walnuts.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
3. Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to combine.
4. Serve immediately for a light, yet flavorful salad.

The Arugula & Pear Salad with Blue Cheese and Walnuts is a sophisticated and delightful dish that perfectly balances sweet, savory, and crunchy elements. The creamy blue cheese enhances the sweetness of the pears, while the walnuts add a satisfying crunch. This refreshing salad is an excellent choice for a romantic Valentine’s Day meal, offering a refined, elegant dish that will impress your loved one.

Arugula & Strawberry Salad with Balsamic Glaze

This refreshing and vibrant salad is a perfect combination of fresh strawberries, the peppery flavor of arugula, and a touch of balsamic glaze for a tangy finish. The natural sweetness of the strawberries is complemented by the earthy greens, and the balsamic glaze adds a rich depth to the flavors. Simple yet elegant, this salad is an ideal choice for a light and refreshing Valentine’s Day starter or side dish.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups fresh arugula
• 1 cup strawberries, sliced
• 1/4 cup goat cheese or feta, crumbled
• 2 tbsp balsamic glaze
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the arugula, sliced strawberries, and crumbled goat cheese or feta.
2. Drizzle with olive oil, balsamic glaze, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Toss gently to combine, making sure the salad is evenly coated with the dressing.
4. Serve immediately for a fresh and sweet salad.

The Arugula & Strawberry Salad with Balsamic Glaze is a light and vibrant dish that beautifully pairs the peppery taste of arugula with the natural sweetness of strawberries. The addition of creamy cheese and a tangy balsamic glaze elevates this simple salad into a sophisticated dish. This salad is a perfect choice for a Valentine’s Day meal, offering a refreshing and flavorful start to your romantic evening.

Arugula & Avocado Salad with Lemon Tahini Dressing

This creamy, rich, and nutritious salad is a wonderful blend of creamy avocado, peppery arugula, and a light lemon tahini dressing. The avocado adds a smooth texture and healthy fats, while the arugula gives the salad a fresh and slightly spicy flavor. The lemon tahini dressing adds a zesty and nutty contrast, making this salad a satisfying and refreshing choice for a Valentine’s Day dinner.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups fresh arugula
• 2 ripe avocados, sliced
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp tahini
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp maple syrup
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the arugula, sliced avocado, and red onion.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, maple syrup, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
4. Serve immediately for a light, creamy, and satisfying salad.

The Arugula & Avocado Salad with Lemon Tahini Dressing is a creamy, flavorful dish that combines the richness of avocado with the peppery bite of arugula. The lemon tahini dressing provides a light, zesty finish that brings all the ingredients together. This salad is perfect for a Valentine’s Day meal, offering a healthy yet indulgent side dish that is both satisfying and refreshing.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!