Looking for a quick and refreshing salad that packs a punch of flavor? Look no further than this Arugula Salad with Lemon Dressing! In just 5 minutes, you can whip up a vibrant dish that’s not only delicious but also bursting with the zesty goodness of fresh lemon and the nutty richness of Parmesan cheese. Perfect as a light meal or a delightful side dish, this Italian-inspired salad will have your taste buds dancing and your guests asking for seconds. Dive into this simple yet elegant recipe and discover how easy it is to elevate your salad game!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 5 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- Arugula (4 cups)
- Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup, shaved)
- Lemon juice (2 tablespoons)
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 4 cups of fresh arugula, 1/4 cup of shaved Parmesan cheese, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and salt and pepper to taste.
- Rinse the arugula under cold water to remove any dirt or grit. Gently pat it dry with a clean kitchen towel or use a salad spinner to remove excess moisture.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the arugula with the shaved Parmesan cheese. Toss them together gently to distribute the cheese evenly throughout the arugula.
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the lemon juice and olive oil until well combined. This will create a simple lemon dressing.
- Drizzle the lemon dressing over the arugula and Parmesan mixture. Start with a small amount and add more to taste, ensuring that the arugula is lightly coated but not drenched.
- Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste. Remember, a little goes a long way, so start with a pinch of each and adjust according to your preference.
- Gently toss the salad again to ensure that the dressing and seasoning are evenly distributed throughout the arugula and cheese.
- Once everything is well combined, transfer the salad to serving plates or a large serving bowl. If desired, you can garnish with additional shaved Parmesan on top.
- Serve immediately as a refreshing side dish or light meal. Enjoy your Arugula Salad with Lemon Dressing!
Tips
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh, organic arugula and high-quality Parmesan cheese. Fresh ingredients make all the difference in a simple salad.
- Adjust the Dressing: Feel free to tweak the lemon dressing to your taste. If you prefer a tangier flavor, add a bit more lemon juice, or if you like it creamier, try mixing in a teaspoon of Dijon mustard.
- Add Extra Crunch: For added texture, consider tossing in some toasted nuts, such as pine nuts or walnuts, to complement the arugula and cheese.
- Serve Immediately: This salad is best enjoyed fresh. The arugula can wilt if left sitting in the dressing for too long, so serve it right after mixing.
- Presentation Matters: For an impressive touch, serve the salad in chilled bowls or plates and garnish with extra shavings of Parmesan cheese or a sprinkle of lemon zest.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 8mg
