Lemon arugula salad is the definition of simple elegance. This bright and peppery salad delivers a burst of flavor with minimal ingredients, making it the perfect side dish or light lunch when you want something fresh, clean, and satisfying. It balances the bold, slightly bitter taste of arugula with the crisp acidity of lemon and the richness of olive oil, creating a dish that feels both refined and effortlessly rustic.
The base of the salad is fresh arugula—its naturally spicy and peppery flavor makes it far more exciting than your average leafy green. When tossed with a lemon vinaigrette made from freshly squeezed lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, salt, and a touch of Dijon mustard, the arugula comes alive. The lemon adds a zing that cuts through the bitterness, while the olive oil provides body and depth.
To add some texture and complementary flavors, you can toss in thinly sliced red onions, shaved Parmesan cheese, and toasted pine nuts or walnuts. These additions bring crunch, creaminess, and a touch of nuttiness that round out the dish without overpowering the freshness of the greens. For extra color and vibrance, a few halved cherry tomatoes or paper-thin radishes can also be added.
Lemon arugula salad pairs beautifully with grilled fish, roasted chicken, or even a simple pasta dish. It also works wonderfully as a bed for seared scallops or a poached egg, turning it into a protein-packed, elegant meal. The light, zesty flavor makes it a favorite for warm weather dining, but its versatility means you can enjoy it year-round.
Whether served as a starter, a side, or the star of your plate, lemon arugula salad is a go-to dish for anyone who loves food that’s fresh, flavorful, and unfussy. It’s quick to assemble, endlessly adaptable, and always leaves a clean, refreshing finish on the palate.
Ingredients
- 2 cups arugula fresh, washed and dried
- 1 small lemon juiced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil extra virgin
- 1/4 teaspoon salt to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese shaved
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the arugula and lemon juice.
- Drizzle the olive oil over the salad and toss to coat the leaves evenly.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Top with shaved Parmesan cheese just before serving.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your refreshing Lemon Arugula Salad!
Nutrition
I dunno, tasted kinda bland to me. Maybe add more seasoning?
Simple and effective salad! My go-to for meals now!
Yum! Love the lemony taste! Will def make again! 🍋
I totally agree! The lemon adds such a nice zing! 🍋🥗
This salad is so fresh and light! Perfect for a summer day!
Is arugula the same as rocket? 🤔
Tried it with feta instead of parmesan and it was bomb! 👌
What if I don’t like lemon? Is there a substitute?
You could try using vinegar instead, like balsamic or apple cider! It’ll give a nice tangy flavor too.
I dunno, is there really a good substitute for lemon? Just try the recipe as it is.
This is too simple. I need more ingredients for a real salad! 😒
Easy to make but my kids didn’t eat it! Only my partner did.
Simple but tasty! I made it for my kids and they actually ate it, surprised me!
I added some nuts for crunch. Delicious!
Nuts in salad? That sounds weird but I bet it adds a nice crunch. Glad you enjoyed it!
This salad is so refreshing! Perfect for summer days. I added some cherry tomatoes and it was a hit! 🌞
simple but yum! I use lemon juice a lot, but the arugula with parm brings it all together. I love this salad! 🥗
I’ve never tried arugula before. Is it supposed to taste so peppery? It was good, but not my favorite green.
This salad is super refreshing! The lemon gives it such a great zing. I used feta instead of Parmesan though. Yum!
Um, can I just say? What is arugula? Sounds like a fancy word for lettuce. Ha!
Arugula is actually not just fancy lettuce! It’s a peppery green, adds a real zing to salads! You should try it!
LOL, I thought the same thing! But it’s kinda special, not just lettuce. You can find it in stores usually.
5 stars all the way! I love how quick it is to put together. Perfect for a hot day!
Quick and light! Perfect side dish for a summer BBQ.
My kids wouldn’t touch it. They said it smells like grass! Not making this again.
Sounds like your kids are not fans of greens! Maybe try walnuts or bacon next time to win them over?
So easy to make! I made this for my lunch today and it was delicious. 10/10 would recommend!
I don’t understand why people like salads. This is just leafs with some juice! Not a meal.
Salads are actually super healthy! You should give them another chance. They can be filling too, especially with cheese on top!
But it ain’t just leaves! That lemon and cheese make it tasty. You might be missing out!
Lemon and arugula are a match made in heaven! I added some walnuts for crunch. Definitely trying again!
Too much lemon for me. I think I added a bit too much juice, oops. Will try less next time.
I don’t know… it just felt too bitter for me, maybe the arugula was old? Not a fan.
Lemon and arugula? never thought, but wow! It’s like a party in my mouth. Thanks for sharing! 🎉
Wish I could post a pic, my salad looked nothing like the one in your recipe! Haha. But still tasted okay.
I dunno, I thought it was a bit bland. Maybe if I added some nuts or something… 🤷♂️
I think adding nuts would be a great idea! It could add some crunch and flavor. Almonds would be nice! 🥗
Honestly, you might just need a better dressing. The lemon and olive oil should be enough, but maybe try balsamic too. 🤔
I think u need more salt, but maybe I’m just used to my mom’s cooking. The recipe is ez to do tho.
Salt? I think it’s fine as is! Sometimes less is more, right? Also, what’s with all the fancy ingredients?
I totally agree! A bit more salt can really bring the flavors out. But it’s a refreshing salad anyway!
Lemon juice too sour! Might try again with less lemon next time.
This salad was super tasty! So fresh and zesty. I added some cherry tomatoes for color.
Sounds delicious! I love the idea of adding cherry tomatoes. A bit of color makes everything better! 🍅
Terrible. I’ve never made a salad before and this was so confusing 🙁
Confusing? It’s just arugula and lemon! Can’t be that hard. Maybe you should stick to pizza. 😅
I’m sorry to hear that! It’s really simple once you get the hang of it. Maybe try watching a video tutorial next time? It’ll help!
I used feta cheese instead of Parmesan. Still really good! 🙂
Easy to make! Yumz! Perfect with grilled chicken, highly recommend!
This salad is sooo good! I paired it with salmon instead, and it was fantastic!
I dunno… lemon in salad? Sounds weird. Can’t see how that tastes good. 🤔
Is arugula the same as rocket? Cuz that’s what we call it in my country.