Arugula Salad with Lemon Dressing
This arugula salad with lemon dressing combines crisp arugula, sweet carrots, fresh basil, and toasted almonds with the best lemon dressing for salad. A simple, healthy, and flavorful dish!
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (juice of ½ of a large lemon)
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon pure honey
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon fine salt
- Pinch pepper
- 1 (5-ounce) bag or carton fresh arugula
- 2 medium carrots shaved into ribbons or shredded (about 1 cup)
- 1 small shallot thinly sliced (¼ cup)
- 1 small pack (0.5 oz) fresh basil leaves torn or roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup shaved Parmesan cheese plus more for garnish (omit for dairy-free)
- 1/3 cup toasted sliced almonds
Instructions
- In a small bowl or jar with a tight-fitting lid, combine the dressing ingredients: lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Whisk or shake vigorously until emulsified. (Tip: Make the dressing ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.)
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine the arugula, shaved carrots, sliced shallot, torn basil leaves, Parmesan cheese, and toasted almonds.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently until everything is evenly coated. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- For added visual appeal, top with extra Parmesan shavings and a sprinkle of toasted almonds before serving.