As the crisp air of fall approaches, gear up for the last Backyard BBQs of the summer by elevating your entertaining spread with happy, healthy grapes and fresh melons from California.
Embrace autumn with every delightful bite of this fall festive salad that will help you enjoy all the vibrant colors and flavors this season has in-store!
Arugula Salad with Melons and Grapes
This arugula salad with melons, grapes, and mozzarella is your new favorite for dinner parties, family dinners, or special occasions.
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh arugula
- 2 large sprigs sweet basil about 2 TBSP loosely packed, plus more for garnish
- 2 large sprigs fresh mint about 2 TBSP loosely packed, plus more for garnish
- ½ lemon juiced
- 2 small ripe melons, halved and seeded
- 2 cups red or green seedless California grapes
- 8 oz Belfiore ciliegine “cherry-sized” mozzarella
- 3 TBSP pistachios roughly chopped
- ½ tsp flaky sea salt
- ½ tsp fresh-ground black pepper
- 2 TBSP Mollie Stone’s Organic California Premium Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- 1 TBSP Nonna Luisa’s Balsamic Vinegar
Directions:
- To a large mixing bowl, add the arugula. Tear the basil and mint (or roughly chop), and add to the bowl.
- Pour in the lemon juice and gently toss by hand. Layer half of the arugula and herb mix onto a serving platter or in the bottom of a large salad bowl.
- Using a melon baller, scoop small rounds from the melons. Scatter half of the melon balls across the arugula, followed by half of the grapes. Repeat, layering the remaining arugula over the top, followed by the remaining melon and grapes, then dot with the mozzarella.
- Top the salad with the chopped pistachios and a garnish of additional basil and mint. Season with salt and black pepper, then drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Taste to adjust seasoning and herbs, then dig in!
Why Choose California Grown Produce?
California Grown’s goal is to bridge the connection between Californians and the people who grow and produce their food. You may not think of farmers every time you’re at Mollie Stone’s Markets, but they think about you an awful lot. From employing food safety measures that keep your food reliable, to growing varieties they know you will appreciate, and developing creative packaging solutions that will help get dinner on the table faster – these details dominate the mind of the farmer.
Join us as we celebrate 175 years of California feeding the nation!
Also this summer we have an extra special reason to enjoy our Golden State as California turns 175 this year!
As a local, family owned, market this milestone is close to our hearts because we think the most important thing California brings to the table is our agriculture.
With California producing over 400 crops, including more than 99% of the country’s almonds, artichokes, figs, walnuts, and grapes. And produces 75% of the nation’s cantaloupes. This food economy not only feeds America but also exports knowledge, innovation, and sustenance around the globe.
California, a state of dreamers and doers, has driven profound progress over the last 175 years through its profound resilience and welcoming spirit.
Find everything you need for this recipe and many more California favorites at your local Mollie Stone’s Markets. Click HERE to find a market near you!
