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Fresh Arugula Salad with Parmesan

fresh arugula salad with Parmesan - featured image

A quick, easy, and healthy side salad featuring peppery arugula and freshly shaved Parmesan with a light tangy dressing.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 5 cups fresh arugula (about 150g / 5.3 oz)
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly shaved or grated (about 50g / 1.75 oz)
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 small clove garlic, minced (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Optional toppings: 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts or walnuts, or heirloom cherry tomatoes halved

Instructions

  1. Wash and dry the arugula thoroughly (about 5 minutes). Rinse under cold water and spin or pat dry to remove excess water.
  2. Prepare the dressing by whisking together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper (3-5 minutes). Taste and adjust seasoning.
  3. Place arugula in a large salad bowl. Drizzle dressing evenly over the greens and gently toss until lightly coated (2 minutes).
  4. Shave about 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese over the salad using a vegetable peeler or microplane (1-2 minutes).
  5. Add optional toppings like toasted pine nuts, walnuts, or halved cherry tomatoes (1-2 minutes).
  6. Give the salad one last gentle toss and serve immediately.

Notes

Keep arugula and dressing separate until just before serving to avoid soggy leaves. Use fresh, peppery arugula and freshly shaved Parmesan for best flavor. Toast nuts lightly for added crunch. Dressing can be adjusted with balsamic vinegar for a sweeter taste. For vegan version, substitute Parmesan with nutritional yeast or vegan cheese.

Nutrition

Keywords: arugula salad, Parmesan salad, healthy side salad, easy salad recipe, quick salad, fresh greens, simple dressing