Arugula, also known as rocket, is a leafy green vegetable that brings a peppery, slightly spicy flavor to salads and other dishes. It’s a popular ingredient in Mediterranean cuisine and is known for its numerous health benefits.
Arugula is packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folate, calcium, and magnesium. Its unique taste and nutritional profile make it an excellent addition to any meal.
This arugula salad combines fresh, vibrant ingredients to create a dish that’s not only delicious but also highly nutritious.
The peppery arugula leaves are complemented by sweet cherry tomatoes, sharp red onions, creamy avocado, and the rich, nutty flavor of toasted pine nuts.
A drizzle of tangy lemon vinaigrette ties everything together, making this salad a perfect appetizer or side dish for any occasion.
Ingredients
4 cups fresh arugula leaves
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion
1/4 cup shaved Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup toasted pine nuts
1 avocado, sliced
Lemon vinaigrette (recipe below)
1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 clove garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Prepare the Salad Ingredients:
Rinse and dry the arugula leaves.
Halve the cherry tomatoes.
Thinly slice the red onion.
Shave the Parmesan cheese.
Toast the pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden brown.
Slice the avocado.
Make the Lemon Vinaigrette:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Assemble the Salad:
In a large salad bowl, combine the arugula, cherry tomatoes, red onion, Parmesan cheese, and toasted pine nuts.
Drizzle the lemon vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to coat the ingredients evenly.
Add Avocado:
Top the salad with sliced avocado just before serving to prevent browning.
Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the arugula salad immediately as a light and flavorful appetizer or side dish.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 230
Protein: 6g
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fiber: 5g
Sugar: 3g
Conclusion
This arugula salad is a versatile and vibrant addition to any meal. Its peppery greens, sweet cherry tomatoes, and creamy avocado come together beautifully with the zesty lemon vinaigrette. Enjoy the freshness and health benefits of this delicious salad!
Feel free to adjust the ingredients and dressing to suit your taste. Happy cooking!
