Best Summer Arugula, Parmesan, and Lemon Dressing Salad with a Zesty Twist
This past July 4th extra long weekend (thank God for employers who gave an extra bonus day on the 3rd) had us sizzling in the hot summer sun dreaming up leisurely picnics somewhere on the Italian Riviera, or just about anywhere in the Mediterranean. Easy breezy summer meals call for refreshing punchy greens and bright citrus dressings, so today I’m recommending something classic yet elevated with this super simple arugula, parmesan and lemon dressing salad. Simple recipes call for each ingredient to be divine and in the best quality you can find, this is how the flavors really shine and melt into each little taste bud. We’ve linked our favorite products, like that good good olive oil and really special cheese that make a big difference. Be sure to hit up your local farmer’s markets for the freshest greens. Nuts, optional. I threw some in here just for a light crunch.
Ingredients:
4 cups fresh arugula leaves
1/2 cup shaved Italian Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup pine nuts
1 lemon, zested and juiced
2 tablespoons good good extra-virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon honey
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Recipe Instructions:
Toast the pine nuts: Preheat a small skillet over medium heat. Add the pine nuts and toast them, stirring frequently, until they turn golden brown and fragrant. Remove them from the heat and set aside.
Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon zest, lemon juice, extra-virgin olive oil, and honey until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
Assemble the salad: In a large salad bowl, add the fresh arugula leaves. Pour the dressing over the arugula and toss gently to coat the leaves evenly.
Add the Parmesan and pine nuts: Sprinkle the shaved Parmesan cheese and toasted pine nuts over the dressed arugula. Lightly toss the salad again to incorporate the cheese and nuts throughout.
Taste and adjust: Give the salad a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Add a little more lemon juice, olive oil, honey, salt, or pepper to suit your preferences.
Serve and enjoy: Transfer the salad to individual serving plates or a large platter. Garnish with additional shaved Parmesan and a sprinkle of lemon zest, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy this vibrant and zesty arugula salad!
Serving tip: This salad pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, or even a beautiful steak for a complete meal. For added texture and flavor, you can also include some cherry tomatoes or thinly sliced red onions. We left out the onions this time so we can smooch our beaus… ;)
Bon appetit,
Lulu