Simple Spinach Arugula Salad with Lemon Dressing

The ingredients

Notes on Ingredients

• Arugula & Spinach: You can find both at most grocery stores, either pre-washed in bags or in the fresh produce section. If you can't find arugula, you could substitute it with baby kale for a similar peppery flavor.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Using extra virgin olive oil in the dressing adds richness and depth. It’s the best choice for both flavor and health benefits. Choose a high-quality oil for the best taste.
• Whole Grain Mustard: The mustard adds a tangy complexity to the dressing. If you don’t have whole grain mustard, Dijon or yellow mustard will work, though the flavor will be slightly different.
• Parmesan: Shaved Parmesan adds a wonderful savory flavor to the salad. Make sure to use freshly shaved or grated Parmesan for the best texture and taste. Pre-shredded Parmesan can have added preservatives that may affect the taste.
• Honey: Honey helps to balance the tartness of the lemon and brings a touch of sweetness to the dressing. You can use maple syrup as a substitute if you prefer a vegan option.

See quantities in the recipe card below.

Step-by-Step Instructions for the Spinach Arugula Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

1. Whisk the Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine the freshly squeezed lemon juice, lemon zest, extra virgin olive oil, black pepper, salt, honey, and whole grain mustard. Whisk until all ingredients are well combined. The honey helps balance out the tartness from the lemon, and the mustard adds a touch of depth to the flavor.
2. Taste & Adjust: Taste your dressing and adjust seasoning if needed. Add a little more honey for sweetness or a bit more salt for extra flavor. If you prefer a tangier dressing, add a bit more lemon juice or zest.
3. Set Aside: Let the dressing sit while you prepare the salad. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 2: Assemble the Salad

1. Prepare the Greens: Rinse the fresh arugula and spinach in cold water. A salad spinner works best to ensure the greens are dry, but if you don’t have one, gently pat them dry with paper towels.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a large salad bowl, toss together the arugula, spinach, shaved Parmesan, and halved cherry tomatoes. The Parmesan adds a creamy, savory touch, while the tomatoes bring a burst of juiciness.

Step 3: Dress the Salad & Serve

1. Drizzle the Dressing: Pour the lemon dressing over the salad.
2. Toss to Coat: Gently toss the salad until all the greens and toppings are evenly coated in the dressing. Be sure not to over-toss—just enough to mix everything lightly without bruising the delicate spinach and arugula.
3. Serve Immediately: This salad is best served fresh, right after tossing. It makes an excellent side dish to grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or seafood. You could also enjoy it as a light, refreshing main dish if you're looking for something quick and healthy!

Tips for the Best Lemon-Arugula & Spinach Salad

• Use Fresh Ingredients: The key to this salad is the freshness of the greens. Make sure your spinach and arugula are crisp and bright, which will give your salad the best texture and flavor.
• Make Ahead: While this salad is best served fresh, you can prepare the dressing ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a quick whisk before serving.
• Adjust the Dressing: Feel free to customize the dressing to your taste. If you like it extra tangy, add a bit more lemon juice or zest. For more sweetness, increase the honey or use agave syrup for a different flavor profile.
• Add More Veggies: If you want to make the salad more substantial, consider adding more vegetables such as cucumber, red onion, or even roasted bell peppers.
• Crunch Factor: For a bit of crunch, add a handful of nuts like sliced almonds or walnuts. These will complement the peppery greens and add texture to the salad.

Variations of the Salad

1. Avocado Add-In: For a creamy twist, add some sliced avocado to your salad. It will complement the lemon dressing beautifully and make the salad even more satisfying.
2. Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to make this salad a complete meal. The light, tangy dressing pairs wonderfully with any of these proteins.
3. Fruit Additions: Consider adding some fruit to your salad. Sliced strawberries, figs, or even apple slices would provide a delightful sweetness that contrasts nicely with the lemon dressing.
4. Cheese Alternatives: If you're not a fan of Parmesan, you can substitute with feta cheese or goat cheese. Both add their own unique tang and creaminess to the salad.

What to Serve With This Salad

• Grilled meats like chicken, steak, or lamb
• Roasted vegetables, particularly root vegetables like carrots or beets
• A side of crispy bread or crostini
• Light pasta dishes like lemon garlic pasta or pasta primavera
• A refreshing glass of white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio

Storage & Leftovers

This salad is best enjoyed immediately, as the greens can wilt if left in the dressing for too long. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. Keep the dressing separate to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.

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