Arugula Salad
A vibrant, peppery arugula salad with fresh tomato and onion, tossed in a tangy lemon-balsamic vinaigrette, perfect as a light starter or side dish for any meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Remove and discard arugula stems and cut leaves crosswise into 1/2-inch pieces.
- Transfer arugula to a bowl.
- Cut tomato into 1/2-inch dice and add to arugula.
- Add sliced red onion to the bowl.
- Whisk together lemon juice, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt, and white pepper to make the dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
- Transfer veal chops to a warm dinner plate and top with approximately 1 cup of arugula salad.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your arugula salad, try adding toasted nuts or seeds for extra crunch. If arugula is too peppery for your taste, you can mix it with baby spinach for a milder flavor. For a vegan twist, substitute honey with agave syrup in the dressing. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can also elevate the dish.
Serving Suggestions
This arugula salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish for a light meal. You can also serve it alongside Mediterranean recipes such as Hummus (Garbanzo Bean Dip) or Pita Bread Chips for a complete spread. For a heartier option, consider adding quinoa or chickpeas to the salad for added protein.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover arugula salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To retain the crispness of the arugula, keep the dressing separate until ready to serve. If the salad wilts, consider adding fresh arugula to rejuvenate it before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Arugula Salad contains roughly 55 calories, with 1g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (15% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different vinegar instead of balsamic?
Yes, you can substitute balsamic vinegar with red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar for a different flavor profile. Each will add a unique tang to the dressing. Adjust the quantity to taste, as some vinegars may be more acidic than balsamic.
How can I make this salad ahead of time?
To prepare this salad ahead of time, wash and chop the arugula and vegetables, then store them separately in the refrigerator. Prepare the dressing and keep it in a sealed container. Combine everything right before serving to ensure freshness.
What other toppings can I add to this salad?
You can customize your arugula salad with toppings like feta cheese, avocado, or roasted vegetables. Adding fruits such as sliced strawberries or pears can also bring a nice sweetness to balance the peppery arugula. Experiment with different combinations to find your favorite!
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).