Name: Rucola-Mango-Salat mit Pinienkernen Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: German
Ingredients: 150 g Rucola; 1 Mango; 1 Avocado; 125 g Mini-Mozzarella-Kugeln (mini mozzarella balls); 20 g Pinienkerne (pine nuts); 1/2 Orange (for juice); 1 EL Olivenöl (1 tablespoon olive oil); 1 EL Balsamico Bianco (1 tablespoon white balsamic vinegar); 1 TL Ahornsirup (oder Honig) (1 teaspoon maple syrup or honey); Salz und Pfeffer (salt and pepper, to taste)

If you’re craving a salad that perfectly balances peppery greens with tropical sweetness and a delightful crunch, the Rucola-Mango-Salat mit Pinienkernen Recipe is an absolute must-try. Combining fresh arugula, creamy avocado, juicy mango, and toasty pine nuts, all tossed in a bright citrus dressing, this salad bursts with vibrant flavors and textures that will make your taste buds dance. It’s light yet satisfying, colorful yet simple, and ready in just 15 minutes—ideal for a quick lunch or a stunning side dish at dinner.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white bowl filled with fresh green arugula leaves, showing different shades and textures of leafy greens, sits on a white marbled surface. In front of the bowl, there is a half orange with bright orange flesh and white center, two halves of a ripe avocado with creamy light green flesh and one half showing the large brown pit. A few small pine nuts are scattered near the avocado. In the background, a whole green mango is partially visible. The colors are bright and natural, with a fresh and healthy look. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this salad lies in its straightforward, fresh ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in creating a harmonious blend of taste, texture, and eye-catching color. Whether it’s the peppery kick from the rucola or the sweet juiciness from the mango, everything comes together effortlessly.

150 g Rucola: Delivers a fresh, peppery note that forms the salad’s green foundation.
1 Mango: Adds natural sweetness and a sunny color contrast.
1 Avocado: Provides a creamy, buttery texture that complements the crisp greens.
125 g Mini-Mozzarella-Kugeln: Brings a mild, milky softness that balances vibrant flavors.
20 g Pinienkerne: Give a delightful crunch and subtle nuttiness, especially when toasted.
1/2 Orange: Freshly squeezed juice offers bright acidity and zest.
1 EL Olivenöl: Adds richness and smoothness to the dressing.
1 EL Balsamico Bianco: Provides a gentle tang without overpowering the other flavors.
1 TL Ahornsirup (oder Honig): A touch of sweetness to balance the citrus and vinegar.
Salz und Pfeffer: Seasoning to taste enhances every component.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Rucola-Mango-Salat mit Pinienkernen Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Fresh Ingredients

Start by washing the rucola thoroughly to remove any dirt while preserving its vibrant green color. Peel the mango and carefully cut the flesh into small, bite-sized cubes to disperse sweetness throughout the salad. Next, dice the avocado, adding a creamy element that rounds out the texture. Drain the mini mozzarella balls to avoid excess moisture, which could water down the dressing later. These fresh components set the stage for the salad’s complex flavors.

Step 2: Toast the Pine Nuts

Place the pinienkerne in a dry skillet over medium heat and toast them gently, shaking the pan frequently to prevent burning. This process releases their natural oils and deepens their flavor, contributing a lovely crunch and nutty aroma. Removing them at just the right moment is key to avoid bitterness.

Step 3: Whisk Together the Dressing

Squeeze the juice of half an orange into a small bowl. Add olive oil, white balsamic vinegar, and a teaspoon of maple syrup or honey to balance the acidity with a hint of sweetness. Whisk the ingredients together briskly, then season with salt and pepper according to your taste. This dressing is light but full of flavor, perfectly tying all the salad elements together.

Step 4: Combine and Toss

In a large salad bowl, combine the rucola, mango cubes, avocado pieces, mozzarella balls, and toasted pine nuts. Drizzle the dressing over everything and toss gently but thoroughly to ensure every bite is coated with that delightful citrus dressing. This careful mixing lets all the textures and tastes mingle beautifully.

How to Serve Rucola-Mango-Salat mit Pinienkernen Recipe

A fresh salad is shown in a white bowl, with three main layers visible. The bottom layer is made of dark green leafy arugula spreads all over. The middle layer includes small yellow mango cubes and light green avocado slices placed unevenly on top. The top layer has small, round, white mozzarella balls scattered throughout the salad. Nearby, the left side shows a half orange with a bright juicy texture and above the bowl, a small white bowl holds light tan pine nuts, with some spilled out, all set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper or a few extra toasted pine nuts on top adds a pleasing final touch. Some fresh herbs like basil or mint can also enhance the salad’s fresh and fruity character, elevating it from simple to spectacular.

Side Dishes

This salad shines alongside grilled chicken, fish, or even a light pasta dish. It also works beautifully as a refreshing starter or a standalone light meal on a sunny day. The sweet and peppery notes make it versatile for a variety of menus.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion, consider plating the salad in individual glass bowls or layering it in a trifle dish for a beautiful visual effect. You could also serve it wrapped in large lettuce leaves as handheld bites, making it perfect for casual gatherings or picnics. Adding edible flowers can further impress guests with color and elegance.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one day. Because the avocado and mango can brown, the salad is best enjoyed fresh, but a quick toss before serving helps refresh its appearance.

Freezing

This salad is not suitable for freezing. The fresh fruits and greens lose their texture and flavor after thawing, and the dressing may separate. Instead, enjoy the Rucola-Mango-Salat mit Pinienkernen Recipe freshly prepared for the best experience.

Reheating

Since this is a fresh salad, reheating is not recommended. The crisp textures and delicate flavors are best preserved by serving it chilled or at room temperature right after preparation.

FAQs

Can I substitute the pinienkerne with another type of nut?

Absolutely! Walnuts, almonds, or even cashews can offer a different but equally delicious crunch. Just toast them lightly to bring out their flavor before adding them to the salad.

Is this salad suitable for vegans?

To make the Rucola-Mango-Salat mit Pinienkernen Recipe vegan, simply replace the mini mozzarella balls with a plant-based cheese or omit them entirely. The rest of the ingredients are naturally vegan-friendly.

What can I use if I don’t have maple syrup or honey?

If you’re out of sweeteners, a pinch of sugar or agave syrup can work well to balance the acidity in the dressing. Adjust the amount to your liking for the perfect harmony.

How ripe should the mango and avocado be for this salad?

Choose mangoes that are fragrant and yield slightly to gentle pressure but aren’t mushy. Avocados should be ripe and creamy but still firm enough to dice without turning into mush. This ensures the salad maintains pleasant textures.

Can I prepare the dressing in advance?

Yes, you can mix the dressing a few hours ahead and store it in the fridge. Just give it a good whisk before tossing with the salad ingredients to recombine the flavors and oils.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about the Rucola-Mango-Salat mit Pinienkernen Recipe that makes it stand out as a fresh and exciting salad option. Its balance of flavors and ease of preparation make it a go-to for busy days and gatherings alike. I promise once you give it a try, it will become a favorite in your recipe rotation. So grab your ingredients, and enjoy the deliciousness of this vibrant salad!

Rucola-Mango-Salat mit Pinienkernen Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need