Arugula salad

Arugula salad with tomatoes and parmesan – An explosion of flavors and textures

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Total time: 10 minutes
Servings: 2

Discover a fresh and flavorful salad that combines spicy arugula with juicy tomatoes and creamy parmesan, bringing a perfect blend of flavors to your table. This simple and quick recipe is ideal for a light snack or as a side dish for a main course.

Arugula, a plant with intense green leaves, is often used in salads due to its distinct, slightly bitter taste, which perfectly complements the sweetness of the tomatoes and the richness of the parmesan. A salad like this is not only tasty but also packed with nutritional benefits, being low in calories and rich in vitamins and minerals.

Ingredients:
- 75 g fresh arugula leaves
- 4-5 small ripe tomatoes
- 75 g Kalamata olives
- 2 slices of toasted bread
- 50 g parmesan (or more to taste)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
- salt, to taste

Step by step:

1. Washing the arugula: Start by washing the arugula leaves well under cold running water. Make sure to remove any impurities or dirt, as arugula has a distinct taste and you want to enjoy its pure flavor. After washing, let them drain in a plastic strainer for a few minutes.

2. Preparing the tomatoes: Meanwhile, wash the tomatoes and cut them into quarters. Choose ripe tomatoes, as they will add sweetness and juiciness to the salad. Arrange the tomato quarters nicely on top of the arugula on each plate.

3. Preparing the bread: Toast the slices of bread until they become golden and crispy. You can use whole grain bread for added nutrients or even rye bread for a more intense flavor. Once they have cooled slightly, cut them into cubes and add them to the plates.

4. Adding the olives: Kalamata olives are ideal due to their rich and salty flavor. If you prefer, you can choose other types of olives, but make sure they have a distinct taste. Add them alongside the bread cubes.

5. Dressing the salad: Drizzle everything with extra virgin olive oil, which will enrich the salad with a fine and aromatic taste. Then, add the lemon juice, which will provide a pleasant contrast and enhance the flavors. Sprinkle salt to taste.

6. Finishing with parmesan: Cut thin slices of parmesan and elegantly arrange them on top of the salad. Parmesan adds a salty note and umami flavor that perfectly complements the combination of ingredients.

7. Serving: The salad should be served immediately to preserve the freshness of the arugula and the crispy texture of the bread. You can add a few fresh basil leaves for an extra burst of flavor.

Useful tips:
- Ensure that the ingredients are as fresh as possible. A good salad depends on the quality of the ingredients.
- If you want to add a crunchy element, you can include toasted nuts or pine seeds.
- This salad pairs perfectly with a glass of dry white wine or mineral water with lemon, enhancing the flavors of the ingredients.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use another type of greens instead of arugula?
Yes, you can replace arugula with spinach or mixed greens. Each option will provide a different taste.

2. How can I store the salad for later?
It is recommended not to mix the ingredients with oil and lemon juice before serving to avoid sogginess. Keep the ingredients separate until serving time.

3. Is this salad vegetarian?
Yes, the recipe is completely vegetarian. If you want to make it vegan, you can omit the parmesan or use vegan cheese.

This arugula salad with tomatoes and parmesan is an ideal choice for moments when you need a quick and healthy dish packed with vitamins and minerals. Whether you serve it as an appetizer or as part of a light lunch, it is a recipe that will not disappoint. Enjoy!