The Best Homemade Arugula Salad Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This arugula salad is fresh, flavorful, and super easy to make, perfect for a quick lunch or a fancy side dish.
- Bold, peppery taste from the arugula, balanced with sweet and tangy toppings.
- Crunchy texture thanks to nuts or seeds, adding a fun bite to every forkful.
- Customizable—toss in your favorite fruits, cheeses, or dressings to make it your own.
Recipe
Arugula salad is a fresh, peppery dish that’s perfect for a quick lunch or a light side. This recipe combines simple ingredients for a flavorful and healthy meal.
Ingredients:
- 5 ounces arugula
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup shaved Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts (optional)
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until well blended.
- Add arugula to the bowl and toss gently to coat the leaves evenly with the dressing.
- Sprinkle shaved Parmesan cheese and toasted pine nuts (if using) over the salad.
- Serve immediately.
Notes:
- For added flavor, substitute Parmesan with Pecorino Romano cheese.
- Toasting pine nuts enhances their flavor; toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden.
Equipment:
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Skillet (optional for toasting pine nuts)
Time:
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 0 minutes
Cuisine: Italian
Serving: 2-4 servings
Nutrition
The nutrition information below is based on the ingredients used in this arugula salad recipe. Values may vary depending on specific brands or portion sizes.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 kcal |
| Total Fat | 9 g |
| Saturated Fat | 2 g |
| Cholesterol | 5 mg |
| Sodium | 150 mg |
| Total Carbohydrate | 6 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugars | 3 g |
| Protein | 4 g |
| Vitamin A | 15% DV |
| Vitamin C | 20% DV |
| Calcium | 8% DV |
| Iron | 6% DV |
What To Serve With It
I love serving my homemade arugula salad with grilled chicken or salmon for a protein-packed meal that feels complete. Sometimes, I’ll pair it with a crusty baguette or warm focaccia to add a comforting touch. It’s all about balancing flavors and textures to make the dish shine.
Complementary Protein Pairings
When you’re enjoying a fresh arugula salad, it’s easy to wonder what protein will make it even more satisfying. I love adding grilled chicken—it’s juicy, flavorful, and pairs perfectly with the peppery greens. Shrimp is another favorite of mine, especially when lightly sautéed with garlic. If you prefer plant-based options, chickpeas or crispy tofu work wonders, adding texture and heartiness. For something richer, I’ll toss in slices of seared steak or grilled salmon. Don’t forget hard-boiled eggs—they’re simple but surprisingly delicious. Each protein brings its own twist, making the salad feel like a complete meal every time.
Fresh Bread Options
Arugula salad’s bold flavors pair perfectly with fresh bread, turning a simple dish into a comforting, well-rounded meal. I love serving it with a crusty baguette or warm ciabatta, their chewy texture balancing the peppery greens. A slice of sourdough, toasted with olive oil, adds a tangy crunch that’s hard to resist. If I’m feeling fancy, I’ll bake rosemary focaccia—its herbaceous aroma complements the salad’s zest. Soft, pillowy dinner rolls are another favorite, especially when torn open and dipped into leftover dressing. Whatever I choose, fresh bread elevates the meal, making it feel cozy and complete.
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