Arugula Salad with Oranges and Almonds

Arugula, also known as eruca or rocket (roquette), is a member of the Brassicaceae family and native to the Mediterranean. For some reason, I spent many years disliking arugula. I recall removing it from sandwiches in Italy and always requesting it to be either omitted or exchanged when ordering. A few years ago something shifted and suddenly arugula became one of my favorite greens and my preferred choice for salads. I make this salad often, as it is quick, fresh and delicious and quite often it accompanies pizza or gnocchi or stuffed vegetables.

For Susan, who requested I post the recipe for this salad.

4 c fresh arugula

¼ c sliced almonds, toasted

1 large orange, segmented

1-2 tbsp parmesan, grated

1 tbsp fresh orange juice

1 tbsp olive oil

salt and pepper

1. In a small bowl, combine orange juice and olive oil. Season dressing to taste with salt and pepper and set aside.

2. In a medium mixing bowl or salad bowl, combine arugula, almonds, Parmesan and oranges. Whisk dressing, slowly drizzle on arugula mixture and gently toss to combine. Serve immediately.

To segment oranges: using a serrated knife, slice the ends off of the orange. Placing the orange on one end, carefully remove the peel working from end to end and rotating orange. After peel is removed, segment the orange by cutting along the edge of each dividing skin.

Serves 3-4