Arugula Salad With Lemon Vinaigrette

Arugula (known as rocket in Europe), is a leafy green cruciferous vegetable that looks similar to spinach but has a fresh, peppery taste. Arugula is high in fiber, folate, phytochemicals and antioxidants, similar to broccoli, Kale and Brussel Sprouts.

This is an easy and refreshing recipe for an arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette. This simple salad is so perfect for the warmer weather, and is perfect to serve as a simple side or appetizer.

The homemade salad dressing comes together in a matter of minutes with just a few simple ingredients. Lemon vinaigrette is vegan and gluten free!

I keep salads simple and fresh. There’s no sense using a bottled dressing that has half the flavor for a savings of just 30 seconds.

Summer is all about simplicity for me. This salad is full of fresh and tangy flavors and takes just minutes to put together. It’s perfectly effortless and light whilst being flavorsome and fresh. It’s a great throw-together salad for easy entertaining.

Once you start making your own dressings, you’ll never go back to store bought. They make what could be a boring salad taste incredible!

Arugula Salad Ingredients

• Arugula – don’t hesitate to try this peppery, leafy green that holds up beautifully to toppings and dressings. Did you know that arugula isn’t a lettuce at all? It’s actually a member of the cabbage family! 
• Parmesan Cheese – I enjoy the simplicity of this salad, using just fresh grated dry cheese to top it like Pecorino, Asiago or Parmesan. Truly, whatever I have in the refrigerator from a previous meal works here
• Lemon Vinaigrette – Light and refreshing, it’s the perfect compliment. You can toss it or use a spray bottle to lightly spritz it.

Lemon Vinaigrette

• White Wine Vinegar – White wine vinegar adds a tang to the dressing and it is not as sharp or as overpowering as white vinegar. You can also make this with red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar.
• Olive Oil – Use a good quality olive oil that will add flavor and richness to this simple dressing.
• Lemon Juice – It’s always best to use fresh lemon juice for the most vibrant flavor.
• Black Pepper – Thick flakes of black pepper fresh from a grinder offer the most flavor and texture in this simple salad.

How To Make Lemon Vinaigrette
Combine – Combine vinegar, olive oil and lemon juice.
Shake – Shake well in a sealed jar or whisk vigorously in a bowl.

How to Make Arugula Salad

1. Wash and spin the arugula and add to a plate or bowl.
2. Top with the cheese and drizzle or spray with lemon vinaigrette. Add fresh cracked black pepper.

I love me some salad!

Ali