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Overhead view of a white bowl with an arugula salad with parmesan and lemon on a wooden background.
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4.46 from 46 votes

The Best Arugula Salad Recipe

Arugula's peppery bite is enhanced by a simple lemon vinaigrette and mellowed with aged Parmesan cheese in this classic Italian arugula salad recipe.
Prep Time10 minutes
Total Time10 minutes
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Italian
Diet: Vegetarian
Servings: 4
Author: Rachel Gurk

Ingredients

  • 1 container (5 ounces) baby arugula, washed and dried (4 to 5 cups)
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice (zest the lemon first)
  • 1 teaspoon honey (optional)
  • ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ¼ teaspoon coarse ground black pepper
  • 2 ounces shaved Parmesan cheese (½ cup)
  • zest of 1 lemon (optional)

Instructions

  • In a bowl large enough to contain the arugula, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey (if using), salt, and pepper until completely combined.
    2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice , 1 teaspoon honey, ¼ teaspoon kosher salt, ¼ teaspoon coarse ground black pepper
  • Add arugula to the bowl, and toss until coated. Lightly stir in Parmesan cheese or garnish salad with shaved cheese and lemon zest, if desired.
    1 container (5 ounces) baby arugula, washed and dried, 2 ounces shaved Parmesan cheese , zest of 1 lemon
  • This salad is best served immediately because the arugula wilts somewhat after it's dressed. It still tastes good but isn't as attractive.

Video

Notes

  • Variations: If you're not a fan of arugula, use another tender green. Try different cheese, such as gorgonzola,  blue cheese, or feta. You can add fresh herbs to the salad, fresh fruit, or vegetables such as thinly sliced radishes, cucumbers, tomatoes, etc. 
  • Make ahead tips: Prepare dressing, wash and dry arugula, and shave the Parmesan cheese up to a day ahead. Store components of the salad separately in the fridge and combine right before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cup | Calories: 134kcal | Carbohydrates: 4g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 11g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 6g | Cholesterol: 10mg | Sodium: 382mg | Potassium: 154mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 953IU | Vitamin C: 8mg | Calcium: 226mg | Iron: 1mg

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