Elaine GordonThere’s an art to pairing food, much like pairing wine with cheese or the perfect shoes with a nice dress. With arugula salad and shaved parmesan, you’re looking at options that both complement and enhance their earthy, nutty flavors. Fresh fruits, grilled chicken, or crusty bread are great companions.
Think about adding sliced pears or apples for sweetness. You might also want to throw in some nuts – walnuts or almonds add a delightful crunch. And let’s not forget about a light, zesty dressing to drizzle before serving.
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You’ve got your picnic blanket laid out, and the sun is shining. What’s missing? A refreshing salad that screams summer vibes! Enter the arugula salad with shaved parmesan—simple yet bursting with flavor. In this piece, I’ll show you three creative ways to enjoy this delicious dish. Get ready to elevate your salad game!
What is Arugula Salad Shaved Parmesan Three Ways?
Picture this: tender arugula leaves, their peppery bite tempered by the creamy texture of shaved parmesan. Now, imagine that combination in three different styles. You can keep it classic with a simple lemon and olive oil dressing or go bold with a balsamic glaze.
Maybe a sweet twist with figs and honey sounds appealing. Each version brings something unique to the table, ensuring plenty of variety in a seemingly simple dish.
What is the Flavor Profile of This Dish?
The flavor profile is where the magic happens. Arugula brings a peppery kick that wakes up your taste buds. The parmesan adds a creamy richness that balances the sharpness of the greens. When combined with various dressings, the landscape of flavors transforms. Using citrus accents brightens everything up, while balsamic adds a hint of sweetness and depth.
What Makes This Recipe Different from Other Arugula Salad Shaved Parmesan Three Ways?
Many salads can be bland, but this arugula salad lives to defy that stereotype. What sets my approach apart is not just the ingredients but also the creativity in preparation. Each version has its own identity, showcasing different textures and tastes without straying from core flavors. You don’t feel like you’re eating the same dish twice; rather, it’s like attending three separate, delightful parties!
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create the magic, gather these ingredients:
Lemon Dressing:
- ½ teaspoon cracked black pepper
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt
- 1 teaspoon pure maple syrup
Salad:
- 4 cups baby arugula leaves
- ¼ cup Parmesan shavings
- 2 tablespoons toasted pine nuts
Optional Extras:
- Fig quarters
- Balsamic glaze
- Sliced strawberries
- Fresh herbs like basil or mint
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
In a small bowl, combine lemon juice, Dijon mustard, cracked black pepper, sea salt, and maple syrup. Slowly whisk in the olive oil until emulsified. This dressing is your flavor booster, giving the salad a zesty kick that pairs beautifully with the peppery arugula.
Step 2: Toast the Pine Nuts
In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the pine nuts until golden, stirring often to prevent burning. This step may seem small, but it adds a toasty, nutty flavor that elevates the salad.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl, add the arugula, toasted pine nuts, and shaved parmesan. Drizzle your homemade lemon dressing over the mixture. Toss gently, ensuring all the greens are coated with that tangy goodness.
Step 4: Experiment With Variations
Now, the fun begins! For the first variation, top the salad with fig quarters and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a sweet, sophisticated dish. For the second, consider adding sliced strawberries and fresh basil for a refreshing summer twist. The third can include diced avocado for creaminess and additional nutritional value.
Tips on Making Arugula Salad Shaved Parmesan Three Ways
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: Fresh arugula and high-quality parmesan make all the difference.
- Don’t Skip the Toasting: Toasting nuts elevates their flavor, creating depth in the dish.
- Adjust the Dressing: Feel free to tweak the ratios in the dressing to suit your taste.
- Add a Protein: For a filling meal, add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or quinoa.
- Serve Chilled: For maximum freshness, chill your salad before serving.
Nutrition Information
This salad is not only delicious but nutritious too! Here’s a breakdown per serving:
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fats: 16g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
The salad is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, making it a powerhouse of nutrients.
How Can I Store This Arugula Salad Shaved Parmesan Three Ways?
If you have leftovers—though with this salad, that might be a rare occurrence!—storing is straightforward. Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge. Use it within 1-2 days for optimal freshness. If you anticipate leftovers, consider dressing only what you plan to eat. This ensures the greens stay crisp.
Substitute Options for Ingredients
If some ingredients are missing from your pantry, no worries! Here are some viable substitutes:
- Arugula: Swap with baby spinach or mixed greens for a milder taste.
- Parmesan: Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano can provide a similar texture with a different flavor.
- Maple Syrup: Honey or agave can sweeten your dressing if maple syrup is not handy.
- Toasted Pine Nuts: Sunflower seeds or chopped walnuts offer a different crunch if you don’t have pine nuts.
Arugula Salad Shaved Parmesan
Equipment
- Bowl
Ingredients
Lemon Dressing:
- ½ teaspoon cracked black pepper
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt
- 1 teaspoon pure maple syrup
Salad:
- 4 cups baby arugula leaves
- ¼ cup Parmesan shavings
- 2 tablespoons toasted pine nuts
Optional Extras:
- Fig quarters
- Balsamic glaze
- Sliced strawberries
- Fresh herbs like basil or mint
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
- In a small bowl, combine lemon juice, Dijon mustard, cracked black pepper, sea salt, and maple syrup. Slowly whisk in the olive oil until emulsified. This dressing is your flavor booster, giving the salad a zesty kick that pairs beautifully with the peppery arugula.
Step 2: Toast the Pine Nuts
- In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the pine nuts until golden, stirring often to prevent burning. This step may seem small, but it adds a toasty, nutty flavor that elevates the salad.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
- In a large bowl, add the arugula, toasted pine nuts, and shaved parmesan. Drizzle your homemade lemon dressing over the mixture. Toss gently, ensuring all the greens are coated with that tangy goodness.
Step 4: Experiment With Variations
- Now, the fun begins! For the first variation, top the salad with fig quarters and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a sweet, sophisticated dish. For the second, consider adding sliced strawberries and fresh basil for a refreshing summer twist. The third can include diced avocado for creaminess and additional nutritional value.
Notes
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: Fresh arugula and high-quality parmesan make all the difference.
- Don’t Skip the Toasting: Toasting nuts elevates their flavor, creating depth in the dish.
- Adjust the Dressing: Feel free to tweak the ratios in the dressing to suit your taste.
- Add a Protein: For a filling meal, add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or quinoa.
- Serve Chilled: For maximum freshness, chill your salad before serving.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad vegan?
Definitely! Just omit the parmesan or replace it with a vegan cheese alternative. The salad still shines without it, thanks to the fresh ingredients.
What’s the best way to dress the salad?
Apply the dressing just before serving to prevent the arugula from wilting. This ensures a fresh, crunchy experience.
Can I use other cheeses?
Absolutely! Feta or goat cheese can provide a creamy tang that pairs beautifully with the arugula.
How do I prevent my dressing from separating?
Keep the oil and vinegar components in equal parts and whisk together until they emulsify. Adding a touch of Dijon mustard helps stabilize the mixture.
What’s the best way to serve this salad for a crowd?
Consider preparing a large bowl and allowing guests to dress their portions. This way, everyone gets fresh flavors tailored to their taste.
Conclusion
Arugula salad with shaved parmesan offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures. With three distinct ways to prepare it, you can keep your meals exciting while maintaining freshness. Plus, whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, this salad fits the bill perfectly. Grab your ingredients, unleash your creativity, and enjoy a dish that’s as versatile as it is delicious! Happy cooking!
