This simple Arugula Salad recipe is so fresh and simple yet tastes fancy!

This is a quick side with lots of flavor making it really easy to put together.

What is Arugula Salad?

Arugula is a green sometimes called rocket. It has a feathery appearance with a peppery and slightly bitter taste.

This green pairs well with other strong ingredients and a bright sweet dressing. Serve it with a side of homemade focaccia bread or add some croutons.

Ingredients and Variations

GREENS: Fresh arugula has a uniquely shaped leaf that adds to its appeal in a salad.

Its strong flavor means it doesn’t need a lot of other ingredients for flavor as iceberg or romaine do. Spinach can be added to an arugula salad for extra color and texture and to soften the flavor slightly.

VEGGIES: Fresh tart tomatoes and chopped red onions add flavor.

Choose other veggies like avocados, sliced fennel, or roasted beets. Arugula salad goes well with berries, pears, or oranges too.

CHEESE: Parmesan petals provide the right salt flavor that works with the dressing, but other salty cheeses like goat cheese and feta pair really well with arugula.

PINE NUTS: Pine nuts can be a bit pricey but just a tiny amount adds a big punch of flavor to recipes. Look for them in the bulk section so you can buy just what is needed.

If you don’t have pine nuts, toasted almonds or pecans can be added.

Dressing for Arugula Salad

Since arugula is a bit bitter, you want a bold and slightly sweet dressing. The dressing below is fresh and tangy but the following homemade or storebought dressings will also work well:

How to Make Arugula Salad

Simple salads like this one make healthy dinnertime additions a snap!

1. Whisk the dressing ingredients (per the recipe below) set aside.
2. Toss dressing with arugula & top with remaining ingredients. Serve immediately.

Favorite Side Salads

What’s your favorite salad? Leave us a comment & a rating below!