Spicy arugula, fresh mint, sweet grapes and salty bacon come together in a really great salad that is quick to put together and compliments soups and pasta dishes. You don't even need to buy dressing, just drizzle a quick olive oil and balsamic mixture over top, add a little garlic bread, and you are set!
Ingredients:
5 oz arugula, washed
1 garlic clove
1 tbsp fennel seeds
6 pieces of bacon
small bunch of fresh mint
small bunch of fresh tarragon (optional)
a large handful of grapes, washed and sliced in half
2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
1/2 lemon
Squash an unpeeled garlic clove before adding to a fry pan over medium heat, along with the bacon. Cook the bacon until golden and beginning to crisp, then turn them over and sprinkle in the fennel.
Toss the arugula in a bowl and tear the mint and tarragon over top. Add the grapes and then slice up the garlic and cooled bacon and sprinkle over top, with the fennel seeds.
Dressing:
Measure 1/4 cup of olive oil, the balsamic vinegar, and lemon juice into a mason jar. Give it a good shake and put it on the table for people to dress their own salads.
Makes 4 servings
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