Easy Rocket (Arugula) and Parmesan Salad

A classic combo that never lets me down – fresh, peppery, salty, tangy and ready in under 5 minutes.

If you know me – or if you’ve been here for a while – you’ll have worked out that I’ll do just about anything to avoid buying salad dressing. I can’t justify the price, the ingredients list, or the half-used bottles that clog up my fridge and end up going to waste. Especially when I can make something better at home in 60 seconds using pantry staples I already have.

This Easy Rocket (Arugula) and Parmesan Salad is the one I make constantly. No chopping, no cooking – just a handful of rocket, some shaved parmesan, and a quick balsamic dressing that pulls it all together. It’s peppery, salty, tangy, and somehow makes the whole meal feel a bit more complete.

I make it all the time – with pasta, steak, roast chicken, you name it. It’s perfect on a weeknight when something’s already in the oven and you just need a fresh side on the table. Or when you’ve got friends over and want a side that looks a bit fancy without doing anything fancy. It’s simple, classic and always the first thing to disappear!

What kind of parmesan should I use?

Go for a block of parmesan and shave it yourself using a peeler (it gives you lovely big salty flakes that hold up well in the salad), or use a Microplane to generously sprinkle the parmesan all over. Pre-shaved is fine in a pinch, but freshly shaved/grated really makes a difference. Read more about which parmesan is best here. 

Can I add anything to bulk it up?

Definitely. Add grilled chicken, canned tuna, avocado, cherry tomatoes, or toasted pine nuts. It also works as a topper for wraps or toasties (grilled sandwiches), or tossed through cooked pasta with extra dressing!

Is this kid-friendly?

It depends on the little one – the rocket (arugula) has a peppery bite, but you can always swap it for baby spinach or a milder mixed leaf blend if preferred.

If you enjoyed this Easy Rocket (Arugula) and Parmesan Salad, I think you’ll love:

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Easy Rocket (Arugula) and Parmesan Salad

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4 from 1 review

This is the side salad to make when you don’t want to think. Easy Rocket (Arugula) and Parmesan Salad is fresh, quick and goes with absolutely everything – no chopping, no fuss, just a handful of ingredients and a dressing that takes a minute to shake together.

• Total Time: 5 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4 as a side

Ingredients

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SALAD

• 1¾ cups (120 g) rocket (arugula), or use a mix of rocket, baby spinach and/or radicchio for extra colour and flavour 
• 40 g (11/2 oz) parmesan, freshly shaved or grated 

BALSAMIC DRESSING

• 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil 
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 tsp honey
• 1 tsp dijon mustard (see note 1 about gluten)
• ½ tsp sea salt flakes
• ¼ tsp freshly cracked black pepper

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Instructions

1. Add the rocket and shaved parmesan to a large serving bowl.
2. For the dressing, in a small jar or bowl, combine the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, dijon mustard, salt and pepper. Shake or whisk until well combined.
3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving and toss gently to coat.

Notes

Note 1 – Although most mustard is gluten-free, always check the label to be 100% sure.

 

MAKE AHEAD

Salad – The rocket (arugula) and parmesan can be portioned ahead and stored for up to 3 days in the fridge, but don’t dress the salad until just before serving for best results. Find my fruit and vegetable storage tips here.

Dressing – The dressing can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Bring to room temperature before serving (it will solidify in the fridge). Shake before using as it may separate slightly. 

LEFTOVERS

Once dressed, the salad is best served and eaten immediately. If making ahead, follow the Make Ahead instructions above, but don’t throw out leftovers! Store the dressed salad for up to 24 hours in an airtight container in the fridge. However, note the leaves will soften. 

• Author: Nicole
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Salads
• Method: No cook
• Cuisine: Modern Australian