Arugula Salad with Parmigiano and Pine Nuts

Arugula Salad with Parmigiano Reggiano and Pine Nuts is a fresh Italian-style salad made with peppery baby arugula, toasted pine nuts, shaved Parmesan cheese, extra virgin olive oil, and lemon juice. This quick and easy Mediterranean salad is perfect as a light side dish for pasta, grilled chicken, steak, or seafood. Ready in minutes, it brings simple, authentic flavors to any meal.

Ingredients

• 3 cups baby arugula, packed
• 2 tablespoons pine nuts
• 1½ ounces Parmigiano Reggiano, shaved
• Juice of ½ lemon
• 1½ tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• Flaky sea salt, to taste
• Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

Toast the Pine Nuts

1. Place the pine nuts in a small dry skillet over medium-low heat.
2. Toast for 3–5 minutes, stirring frequently, until golden brown and fragrant.
3. Transfer to a plate to cool completely.

Assemble the Salad

1. Add the baby arugula to a large mixing bowl.
2. Drizzle with fresh lemon juice and olive oil. Toss gently to coat the leaves evenly.

Finish and Serve

1. Add the toasted pine nuts and shaved Parmigiano Reggiano.
2. Season with flaky sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper.
3. Toss lightly once more and serve immediately.

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Tips

• Toast pine nuts carefully, as they can burn quickly.
• Use high-quality Parmigiano Reggiano for the best flavor.
• Dress the salad just before serving to keep the arugula crisp.
• Adjust lemon juice to balance the peppery bite of the arugula.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Replace pine nuts with toasted almonds or walnuts.
• Add thinly sliced pears or apples for a touch of sweetness.
• Swap Parmigiano with Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor.
• Include cherry tomatoes for extra color and freshness.

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FAQs

Q: Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?
You can toast the nuts and shave the cheese in advance, but dress the salad right before serving.

Q: How do I keep arugula fresh?
Store it in the refrigerator wrapped in paper towels inside a sealed container to absorb excess moisture.

Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, omit the cheese or replace it with a dairy-free alternative.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve alongside grilled chicken, steak, or seafood.
• Pair with pasta dishes for a light, fresh contrast.
• Add to a charcuterie board as a simple green component.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh, simple ingredients with bold Mediterranean flavor.
• Quick to prepare in under 10 minutes.
• Light yet satisfying with a balance of peppery, nutty, and savory notes.
• Perfect as a side dish or a starter for any meal.