Arugula Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
A crisp and peppery arugula salad tossed in a zesty lemon vinaigrette. This simple, refreshing side dish comes together in minutes and pairs perfectly with grilled chicken, pasta, or pizza.
For 4 servings
2 steps.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the lemon vinaigrette
- b.In a small bowl, combine the extra virgin olive oil and fresh lemon juice.
- c.Add the salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- d.Whisk vigorously for about 30 seconds until the dressing is well combined and slightly thickened.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Assemble and serve the salad
- b.Place the washed and dried arugula in a large salad bowl.
- c.Just before serving, pour the prepared vinaigrette over the arugula.
- d.Gently toss the salad until the leaves are lightly and evenly coated.
- e.Top with shaved Parmesan cheese and serve immediately.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Dress the salad right before serving to prevent the delicate arugula leaves from becoming soggy.
- 2For the best flavor, always use a good quality extra virgin olive oil and freshly squeezed lemon juice.
- 3You can make the vinaigrette ahead of time. Store it in an airtight jar in the refrigerator for up to one week. Just shake or whisk well before using.
- 4Ensure your arugula is completely dry before tossing with the dressing. A salad spinner is the best tool for this.
- 5For extra crunch and flavor, add a handful of toasted pine nuts or walnuts to the salad.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegan
Simply omit the Parmesan cheese or replace it with a plant-based Parmesan alternative to make this salad vegan.
healthyHealthy
Add a tablespoon of toasted seeds like sunflower or pumpkin for extra nutrients, fiber, and crunch.
quickQuick
Use a high-quality store-bought lemon vinaigrette to save time on making the dressing from scratch.
high proteinHigh protein
Top the salad with grilled chicken strips, a cup of chickpeas, or a sliced hard-boiled egg to make it a more substantial dish.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Antioxidants
Arugula is packed with antioxidants like vitamin C and beta-carotene, which help protect your body's cells from damage.
Supports Bone Health
As a great source of Vitamin K, arugula is essential for bone metabolism and proper calcium absorption, contributing to stronger bones.
Provides Healthy Fats
Extra virgin olive oil is a key component of the Mediterranean diet and provides heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, it's very healthy. Arugula is a nutrient-dense leafy green, low in calories and high in vitamins A, C, and K. The extra virgin olive oil provides heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.