Print

Arugula Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

This Arugula Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette is a crisp, peppery, and refreshing salad tossed in a tangy homemade lemon dressing. With optional toppings like parmesan, avocado, cherry tomatoes, and nuts, it’s a quick and healthy side or light main dish ready in minutes.

  • Author: Julia
  • Prep Time: 10–15 minutes
  • Cook Time: None
  • Total Time: 10–15 minutes
  • Yield: 4 side servings or 2 main servings
  • Category: Salad / Side Dish
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean / American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

  • 4 cups fresh arugula
  • 1/4 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese or shaved pecorino
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds (optional)
  • 1 avocado, sliced (optional)
  • 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
  • 1 garlic clove, finely minced
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic, and honey (if using).
  2. Slowly drizzle in olive oil while whisking until emulsified. Season with salt and pepper.
  3. In a large bowl, combine arugula with optional toppings like tomatoes, nuts, or avocado.
  4. Drizzle vinaigrette over the salad just before serving. Toss gently to coat.
  5. Top with freshly shaved parmesan and serve immediately.

Notes

  • Only dress what you plan to eat to keep arugula crisp.
  • Prep vinaigrette ahead—it stores in the fridge for up to 5 days.
  • Mix arugula with milder greens for a less peppery flavor.
  • Use goat cheese, feta, or seeds for different textures and flavors.
  • Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or salmon for a protein-packed meal.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://juliameals.com/arugula-salad-with-lemon-vinaigrette/