If you’re craving a salad that’s equal parts elegant and effortless, Arugula Salad with Shaved Parmesan is about to be your new go-to. This classic Italian-inspired dish delivers big flavors with just a handful of vibrant ingredients: peppery arugula, nutty Parmesan, a zippy lemon vinaigrette, and a sprinkle of toasted nuts for a little crunch. It’s the kind of salad that feels special enough for company but is so quick to toss together, you’ll find yourself making it on busy weeknights, too. Every bite is a celebration of fresh, bold flavors that let the ingredients shine.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This salad keeps things refreshingly simple, relying on top-notch ingredients to build layers of taste and texture. Each element plays a starring role, making every forkful sing with flavor and color.
- Fresh arugula (5 cups): The peppery bite of arugula gives this salad its signature zing—choose leaves that are crisp and vibrant green.
- Shaved Parmesan cheese (¼ cup): Nutty, salty, and luxuriously creamy, shaved Parmesan melts right into the greens for irresistible flavor.
- Extra virgin olive oil (2 tablespoons): Good olive oil ties everything together, adding richness and depth to the dressing.
- Lemon juice (1 tablespoon): Freshly squeezed lemon brightens the salad and balances the richness of the cheese and oil.
- Dijon mustard (1 teaspoon): Just a touch lends the dressing a gentle heat and creamy body.
- Honey (½ teaspoon): Adds a subtle sweetness that rounds out the tangy and savory notes.
- Salt and black pepper (to taste): Season to your liking—freshly cracked black pepper really brings out the flavors.
- Toasted pine nuts or walnuts (optional, ¼ cup): These give the salad a delicious crunch and an extra layer of flavor. Toast lightly for the best aroma.
How to Make Arugula Salad with Shaved Parmesan
Step 1: Prep the Arugula
Begin by placing the fresh arugula into a large salad bowl. If your arugula is a bit damp from washing, give it a quick spin in a salad spinner or pat it dry with a towel—this helps the vinaigrette cling to every leaf instead of sliding off.
Step 2: Mix the Lemon Vinaigrette
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and black pepper. Keep whisking until the dressing looks creamy and thoroughly blended. Taste and adjust the seasoning if you like—a little more lemon for brightness, a pinch more honey for sweetness, or an extra crack of pepper for bite.
Step 3: Dress the Salad
Drizzle the zesty vinaigrette over the arugula. Use your hands or salad tongs to gently toss everything together, making sure every leaf gets a glossy coating. This is where the magic happens, so take your time and toss gently to keep the arugula fluffy and light.
Step 4: Add the Shaved Parmesan and Nuts
Sprinkle the shaved Parmesan cheese evenly over the top, letting the broad curls nestle among the greens. If you’re adding toasted pine nuts or walnuts, scatter them on now for a wonderful nutty crunch. Don’t be shy—a little extra cheese or a few more nuts never hurt anyone!
Step 5: Serve Immediately
This salad shines brightest when served fresh, right after tossing. Plate it as a generous starter or a light side, and watch it disappear. If you want to get fancy, use a vegetable peeler to create gorgeous, wide shavings of Parmesan just before serving.
How to Serve Arugula Salad with Shaved Parmesan
Garnishes
For a finishing touch, try a final drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a few extra shavings of Parmesan on top. A crack of black pepper or even a sprinkle of lemon zest can really make your Arugula Salad with Shaved Parmesan feel restaurant-worthy.
Side Dishes
This salad is a natural partner for so many meals. Serve it alongside classic Italian dishes like risotto or pasta, or pair it with grilled chicken, fish, or even a hearty soup for a balanced plate. Its bright flavors and light texture make it a wonderful foil for richer main courses.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re entertaining, try layering the salad on a large platter for a dramatic family-style presentation. For a sweet twist, add thin slices of crisp apple or juicy pear, or toss in a handful of pomegranate seeds for pops of color. Mini Arugula Salad with Shaved Parmesan can also be served in individual bowls or glasses for an elegant appetizer course.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, transfer the salad to an airtight container and store it in the fridge. The arugula will wilt a bit, especially once dressed, but it will still be tasty within a day. For maximum freshness, store the greens and dressing separately until ready to serve.
Freezing
Freezing isn’t recommended for Arugula Salad with Shaved Parmesan, as the delicate greens and cheese don’t hold up well to icy temperatures. The texture and flavors are best enjoyed fresh, so make just what you’ll eat and savor every bite.
Reheating
Since this is a no-cook salad meant to be enjoyed cold, reheating isn’t necessary. If your salad has chilled in the fridge, simply let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving to bring out the best flavors and textures.
FAQs
Can I use baby spinach instead of arugula?
Absolutely! While the signature peppery flavor of arugula makes this salad unique, baby spinach is a lovely, milder alternative. You could even do a mix of the two for a more nuanced flavor profile.
What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
If Parmesan isn’t available, try Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano for a similar salty, nutty bite. For a vegetarian or dairy-free twist, look for plant-based hard cheeses or sprinkle on toasted seeds for extra texture.
How can I make this salad more filling?
To turn your Arugula Salad with Shaved Parmesan into a heartier meal, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or roasted chickpeas. A handful of cooked farro or quinoa also works beautifully for extra staying power.
Is there a way to make the dressing without honey?
Yes! If you’d like to keep the salad vegan or avoid honey, use a splash of maple syrup or agave instead. Both add that touch of sweetness to balance the acidity of the lemon and mustard.
Can I prepare Arugula Salad with Shaved Parmesan in advance?
You can prep the individual components ahead (wash and dry the arugula, shave the cheese, mix the dressing), but wait to combine them until just before serving. This keeps the greens crisp and the flavors vibrant.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a salad that’s as simple to make as it is stunning to serve, Arugula Salad with Shaved Parmesan is the answer. Its bold flavors and effortless preparation make it a standout, whether you’re hosting friends or just treating yourself to something special. Give it a try, and let this crisp, peppery, and cheesy classic become a regular star at your table!
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Arugula Salad with Shaved Parmesan Recipe
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A fresh and vibrant Italian-inspired Arugula Salad featuring peppery arugula leaves tossed in a tangy lemon vinaigrette, topped with shaved Parmesan cheese and optional toasted nuts for added crunch. Perfect as a light starter or side dish.
Ingredients
Salad
- 5 cups fresh arugula
- ¼ cup shaved Parmesan cheese
- Optional: ¼ cup toasted pine nuts or walnuts
Dressing
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon honey
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Arugula: In a large bowl, place the fresh arugula leaves and set aside to prepare the dressing.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and black pepper until the ingredients are well combined and emulsified.
- Toss the Salad: Drizzle the dressing evenly over the arugula and toss gently to ensure all leaves are coated with the vinaigrette.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle the shaved Parmesan cheese over the salad. If using, add the toasted pine nuts or walnuts for extra texture and flavor.
- Serve: Serve the salad immediately to enjoy its fresh flavors and crisp texture. It works wonderfully as a light side dish or appetizer.
Notes
- For a sweeter twist, add thinly sliced pears or apples to the salad.
- If shaved Parmesan is unavailable, grated Parmesan can be used sparingly to maintain balanced flavor.
- Best enjoyed fresh as overdressing and storing may wilt the arugula.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ¼ cups
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
