Strawberry–Arugula Salad with Black Pepper & Pistachios

Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced

• 3 cups arugula

• 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil

• Zest of 1 lemon

• ½ tsp freshly cracked black pepper (or to taste)

• ¼ tsp sea salt

• ¼ cup pistachios, roughly chopped

Instructions

1. Prepare the base: Add arugula to a large bowl and scatter sliced strawberries over the top.

2. Season lightly: Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle in lemon zest and sea salt.

3. Add crunch: Toss in the chopped pistachios.

4. Finish with spice: Crack black pepper generously over the salad.

5. Toss gently: Mix just until everything is lightly coated and evenly distributed.

6. Serve immediately: Enjoy fresh while the flavors are bright and crisp.

Flavor Profile: Bright, peppery, and refreshing—sweet fruit balanced by citrus lift, leafy greens, warm spice, and nutty crunch.

Why It Works
Freshly cracked black pepper enhances the strawberries’ natural sweetness while gently stimulating digestion. Its warm spice contrasts beautifully with peppery arugula, bright citrus, and rich olive oil—creating a salad that feels light, vibrant, and unexpectedly complex.