Indulge in the vibrant flavors of a Simple Arugula and Spinach Salad that’s as quick to prepare as it is delicious. A perfectly balanced combination of peppery arugula, the tender sweetness of baby spinach, and a zesty lemon dressing, this delicious salad is a refreshing addition to any meal. Shaved Parmesan cheese adds a savory touch, while optional orange slices bring a bright burst of citrus. Ready in just 15 minutes, this wholesome dish is ideal for a light lunch, busy weeknights, or even your holiday table. Elevate your leafy greens game with this simple, nutrient-packed recipe that’s sure to impress.
Arugula has always been a favorite of mine—its bold, peppery flavor adds a unique twist to any meal. I’ve even been known to enjoy it as a simple side salad for breakfast, drizzled with a touch of olive oil and lemon juice. This arugula and spinach salad embodies everything I love about fresh, simple ingredients. It’s light yet flavorful, making it the perfect companion to a variety of dishes, from hearty pasta dinners to grilled seafood or roasted vegetables. Whether served as a standalone meal or as a quick side dish, this great salad never fails to brighten the table. It's my favorite salad.
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Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Fresh and Light: Packed with fresh ingredients like nutrient-rich greens, bright citrus, and a tangy lemon vinaigrette, this fresh salad is both refreshing and satisfying.
- Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes from start to finish, it’s the perfect delicious side salad or light main course for busy days.
- Customizable: Easily adaptable with added fruits, nuts, or proteins to suit any taste or dietary need.
Ingredients and Substitutions
- Arugula: Known for its peppery and slightly nutty flavor, baby arugula adds a bold and refreshing taste to this vibrant salad. This leafy green is also rich in vitamins A, C, and K, making it a nutritious base for any dish.
- Baby Spinach: With its mild, slightly sweet flavor and tender texture, fresh spinach perfectly complements the arugula. Packed with iron, calcium, and antioxidants, it’s a nutrient powerhouse.
- Shaved Parmesan Cheese: This aged Italian cheese brings a rich, savory, and slightly nutty flavor to the salad. Its delicate shavings melt beautifully into the lemony dressing for added depth.
- Fresh Lemon Juice: Bright and zesty, lemon juice serves as the tangy base for this simple vinaigrette. It enhances the freshness of the greens and balances the richness of the olive oil and Parmesan.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: This high-quality oil provides a smooth, fruity flavor that ties the homemade dressing together. It also adds a luxurious texture while boosting the dish’s healthy fats.
- Kosher Salt: Kosher salt enhances the natural flavors of the salad without overpowering them. Its coarse texture makes it easy to control the seasoning.
- Ground Black Pepper: With its earthy and slightly spicy notes, black pepper adds a subtle kick to the green salad, balancing the sweetness of the spinach and the tanginess of the dressing.
- Oranges: Juicy and sweet orange slices bring a burst of citrus flavor and vibrant color to the salad. They also provide a natural sweetness that complements the tangy dressing and peppery arugula and makes for the perfect addition.
See recipe card for quantities.
How to Make Arugula Spinach Salad
Step 1: In a large salad bowl, combine the fresh arugula and baby spinach. Toss gently to mix.
Step 2: Add lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, kosher salt, and black pepper to a small bowl and whisk together.
Step 3: Drizzle dressing over the mixed greens. Toss the salad gently to coat the greens evenly.
Step 4: Sprinkle the shaved Parmesan cheese over the top of the salad.
Top Tips
Use Fresh Greens: Always rinse and dry the greens thoroughly to remove any dirt and ensure the dressing clings beautifully.
Balance the Flavors: Adjust the lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper to your taste for the perfect tangy, savory balance.
Add Crunch: Sprinkle toasted nuts, such as almonds or walnuts, for added texture and a nutty flavor.
Season Last-Minute: Add the dressing and seasoning just before serving to keep the greens crisp and vibrant.
Experiment with Add-Ins: Try seasonal fruits like berries or pomegranate seeds for added sweetness or avocado for a creamy touch.
Storage and Make Ahead
Storage: Best enjoyed immediately. If storing, keep the dressing separate and combine just before serving. The salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day.
Make ahead: This salad is best served fresh. Making ahead isn’t recommended.
FAQ
Yes! Store the greens in an airtight container and prepare the dressing separately to keep them fresh. Combine just before serving to prevent the salad from wilting.
Absolutely! For a different texture and flavor profile, you can replace arugula or spinach with mixed greens, kale, or romaine lettuce.
Grilled chicken breast, shrimp, salmon, or hard-boiled eggs are great options for adding protein and making this salad a complete meal.
It can be! For a delicious vegan version, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or substitute a plant-based alternative.
Related
Looking for other recipes like this? Try these:
- Salad with Red Wine Vinaigrette
- Easy Caprese Salad Recipe
- Italian Tuna Salad Recipe
- Italian Tomato Salad Recipe
Pairing
These are my favorite dishes to serve with [this recipe]:
Arugula and Spinach Salad
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh arugula
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
- ¼ cup shaved Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Kosher salt to taste
- Ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 orange peeled and sliced
Instructions
- In a large salad bowl, combine the fresh arugula and baby spinach. Toss gently to mix.
- In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, 3 tablespoons of extra virgin oil, Kosher salt, and black pepper to taste.
- Drizzle dressing over the mixed greens. Toss the salad gently to coat the greens evenly.
- Sprinkle the shaved Parmesan cheese over the top of the salad.
- If using, arrange the orange slices on top of the salad for a burst of citrus flavor and color.
- Serve immediately as a refreshing side or a light main dish.
Madhu
The combo of greens and lemon dressing must be so refreshing!
Eva
The combination of flavors is this was perfection! Can’t wait to make it again.
Risa
I love citrus salads and this looks so good! Love the flavor combination with the arugula, Parmesan, and lemon vinaigrette. Can’t wait to try this!
Tina
Love arugula! So peppery and fresh!