Insalata di Rucola e Parmigiano is the epitome of Italian simplicity, fresh, bold, and beautifully balanced. This classic salad, made with peppery arugula (rucola) and thin shavings of Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, offers a refreshing contrast of flavors that elevates any meal. It’s a staple in Italian cuisine, often served as a light starter or a side dish to meat, fish, or pasta.
What makes this salad so special is the quality of its ingredients. The arugula brings a crisp, slightly bitter bite that pairs perfectly with the salty, nutty richness of Parmigiano. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a splash of freshly squeezed lemon juice or balsamic vinegar ties everything together, adding brightness and depth without overpowering the natural flavors.
Some variations might include cherry tomatoes, toasted pine nuts, or a touch of cracked black pepper, but the essence of this salad lies in its minimalism. There’s no need for complex dressings or heavy toppings, just a few premium ingredients that let each component shine.
Insalata di Rucola e Parmigiano is not only quick to prepare but also incredibly versatile. It works beautifully alongside grilled meats, seafood, or hearty pasta dishes, and it can even stand alone as a light lunch when served with crusty bread. Plus, it’s naturally low in calories and packed with antioxidants, calcium, and vitamin C.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or craving a refreshing, nutritious side, this Italian arugula and parmesan salad delivers elegance and flavor in every bite.
Ingredients
- 4 cups arugula
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese shaved
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- salt to taste
- black pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large salad bowl, combine arugula and Parmesan cheese.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and black pepper.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
- Serve immediately.
Nutrition
I tried this with feta instead of parmesan and it was bomb! I recommend it.
This salad is amazing! The flavors are perfect together.
Too much pepper for my taste. I couldn’t finish it. 🙁
Less is more, I think this is good. Though maybe a little garlic next time?
I made it for a dinner party and everyone loved it! So easy to prepare! Will definitely make again. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I’m skeptical about the balsamic vinegar. Isn’t it too strong for such a light salad?
I tried this and found it kinda bland. Maybe add some cherry tomatoes or nuts? Needs more texture. 3/5.
Hmm, I think it’s a salad, not supposed to be a meal with all that stuff in it. But your idea might work for some folks.
I totally disagree! I thought it was delish! The flavors are simple but elegant. Maybe you just need to season it more?
Delicious and so easy to make! This will be a staple at my dinner parties. 😊
Y’all ever thought of using kale instead? Just a thought.
Kale sounds good but it’s way tougher than arugula. Wonder how it would taste?
Nah, arugula is the best for salads, kale is too chewy! Stick with the original.
I don’t even like arugula and I loved this! The balsamic gives it a nice kick.
Why do I need to toss the salad? Isn’t it easier to just layer the cheese on top? Help!
Leaving out the cheese made it vege-friendly. Did I do it right?
I dunno, isn’t the cheese kinda the main thing? It feels like you’re missing out on flavor. Just saying!
Yes, you did it right! The arugula is still super tasty without cheese. Good job making it more inclusive!
Yum! I added some cherry tomatoes and it made it pop! 🍅
I made this without the balsamic and it turned out great! Simple is best.
But how can you not use balsamic? That’s like making a pizza without cheese! 🤨
I’m glad you liked it! Sometimes keeping it simple really does make a difference. 👍
Tried it with feta instead of parmesan because I couldn’t find it. Still good! 😍
Salad? More like rabbit food! Can’t believe people eat this.
Good salad.
Thanks! It’s super easy to make and tastes amazing!
Yuck! Too much pepper in my opinion. Maybe I overdid it, but I won’t make this again.
Why is everyone so obsessed with arugula? It’s just lettuce with a big ego! Wouldn’t recommend. 2.
I put too much salt 😬 but that’s my bad. Still loved it.
Don’t worry, we’ve all been there! Just cut back on the salt next time and it should be perfect!
This salad is just leaves and cheese. Not worth my time!
5 star! My kids actually ate salad for once. They loved the cheese and dressing!
Absolutely love this salad! So simple yet so flavorful. The arugula gives it a nice peppery kick. 5 stars!
This salad is so fresh and tasty! Perfect side dish for my pasta night. Will make it again!
I totally agree! This salad is a game changer! I made it last week and everyone loved it.
Looks good, but arugula is too bitter for my taste. I’d prefer spinach or something less strong.
Honestly, arugula is too bitter for my taste. Can’t understand why people love it so much.
I don’t know, seems too simple for me. Where’s the flavor? 😕
I disagree with the balsamic. Red wine vinegar is better! Try it that way. 4 stars.
I totally get what you’re saying! Red wine vinegar does add a nice kick. I might give it a shot next time. Thanks for the tip!
Salad? More like rabbit food. Not filling at all. 🤷♂️
Took me 10 minutes to make! Fast and easy, just like I like it.
Is this really Italian? I thought they used more than just 4 items for salads.
I think it’s more about the quality of ingredients than the quantity. This sounds delicious!
I dunno, seems kinda basic for an Italian salad. Where’s the tomatoes?
Very fresh! I used lemon juice instead of balsamic and it was bomb!
Seems too simple for me. I was expecting more ingredients. 🙁
Too green for my taste! I prefer, like, fruit salads instead.
I get that! Arugula can be pretty bitter. Maybe add some sweet fruits next time?
Nah, this salad is great! The peppery taste of arugula is awesome with Parmesan. Fruits ain’t the same!
Ok, but I just mixed it all together and now it looks like a mess. Still yummy tho.
Sometimes the messier the better! It just means it’s full of flavor! 🙌
This salad is so simple and yet so delicious! The arugula is peppery and the Parmesan adds a nice touch. Definitely a keeper!
My grandma used to make a similar salad. Brings back good memories. But honestly, it’s just salad. 3.
Salad might be simple, but it can be packed with flavors! Try adding some nuts or berries next time for extra taste! 🍇🥗
I don’t know, sounds kind of bland to me. Where’s the flavor? 🤔
This salad is amazing! So fresh and tangy. Best salad I’ve ever made!
Y’all say it’s quick, but it took me forever to whisk the dressing. Ugh!
Quick and easy! Perfect for when I have guests over. But I wish there were more ingredients—like nuts or fruit.
I didn’t have balsamic vinegar, so I used apple cider vinegar instead. Still turned out great! Just a little different flavor.
Love this recipe! So healthy and quick! I added some nuts for crunch, yum!
Sounds delicious! Adding nuts is a great idea for extra texture. Can’t wait to try it myself!
Yum! This was a hit at dinner. Everyone asked for the recipe!