Elevate your salad game with this vibrant Mediterranean Diet Arugula Salad with Parmesan! Bursting with fresh, peppery arugula, juicy cherry tomatoes, and the subtle sweetness of red onion, this recipe is a refreshing and nutrient-packed addition to any meal. Shaved Parmesan adds a touch of creamy indulgence, while toasted pine nuts provide a delightful crunch and nutty flavor. A simple yet irresistible dressing made with extra virgin olive oil, zesty lemon juice, and freshly ground black pepper ties all the ingredients together beautifully. Ready in just 15 minutes, this quick and healthy salad is perfect as a light lunch, a side dish, or part of a wholesome Mediterranean feast. Plus, its no-cook prep makes it a breeze for busy days!
Start by washing the arugula thoroughly under cold running water. Drain well and pat dry with a clean kitchen towel or use a salad spinner to remove excess moisture.
Halve the cherry tomatoes and finely slice the red onion. Set these aside in a large salad bowl.
Add the arugula to the bowl with the cherry tomatoes and red onion.
In a small dry skillet, toast the pine nuts over medium heat, stirring frequently, until they are golden brown and fragrant. Remove from heat and let them cool.
Shave or grate the Parmesan cheese until you have about half a cup. Add to the salad bowl.
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
Drizzle the dressing over the salad ingredients in the bowl. Toss gently to ensure the salad is evenly coated with the dressing.
Scatter the toasted pine nuts over the salad as a last touch. Serve immediately for maximum freshness and flavor.
Calories |
1300 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 113.6 g | 146% | |
| Saturated Fat | 31.2 g | 156% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 11.5 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 95 mg | 32% | |
| Sodium | 3030 mg | 132% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 26.2 g | 10% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 6.3 g | 22% | |
| Total Sugars | 11.4 g | ||
| Protein | 54.8 g | 110% | |
| Vitamin D | 1.2 mcg | 6% | |
| Calcium | 1516 mg | 117% | |
| Iron | 4.1 mg | 23% | |
| Potassium | 1197 mg | 25% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.