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Fresh Arugula Salad Recipe with Easy Zesty Lemon Vinaigrette Dressing

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A crisp, peppery fresh arugula salad tossed with a bright, zingy lemon vinaigrette that is quick, easy, and perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 5 cups fresh arugula (about 150 grams), washed and dried
  • 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 1 medium lemon)
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (45 ml)
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (5 ml)
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (5 grams)
  • 1 small clove garlic, finely minced (optional)
  • ½ teaspoon salt (about 3 grams), preferably sea salt or kosher salt
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (about 1 gram)
  • Optional add-ins: ¼ cup toasted pine nuts or walnuts, 2 tablespoons shaved Parmesan, ½ cup halved cherry tomatoes

Instructions

  1. Rinse the arugula under cold water and spin dry using a salad spinner or pat dry gently with a clean kitchen towel.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, honey or maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic.
  3. Add salt and black pepper to the vinaigrette and whisk vigorously until slightly thickened and emulsified.
  4. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more salt or lemon juice to balance flavors.
  5. Place arugula in a large salad bowl and drizzle the vinaigrette evenly over the greens.
  6. Gently toss the arugula to coat all leaves without bruising.
  7. Sprinkle optional toppings like pine nuts, Parmesan, or cherry tomatoes and toss lightly to incorporate.
  8. Serve immediately to enjoy the best texture and flavor.

Notes

Do not overdress the salad to avoid wilting. Use fresh lemon juice for best flavor. Whisk olive oil slowly into the dressing for a creamy texture. Dry greens thoroughly to prevent sogginess. Toast nuts lightly for extra crunch and flavor. Prepare vinaigrette up to 3 days ahead and whisk before use. Store salad and dressing separately if making ahead.

Nutrition

Keywords: arugula salad, lemon vinaigrette, fresh salad, easy salad recipe, healthy salad, quick salad, zesty dressing

Find it online: https://flurpchef.com/fresh-arugula-salad-recipe-with-easy-zesty-lemon-vinaigrette-dressing/