Arugula Salad
Arugula, lemon vinaigrette, shaved fennel, parmesan.
Nutrition Facts
* The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
Arugula, also known as rocket, has been enjoyed since Roman times. Its peppery bite was valued by the Romans as an aphrodisiac. Fennel, also used since antiquity, was believed to confer longevity and courage. Parmesan cheese, originating in the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy, has been a staple for centuries. This salad represents a modern interpretation of classic Mediterranean ingredients.
Arugula salad, in its various forms, is a common and versatile dish in Italian cuisine, often served as a light appetizer or side dish. It showcases fresh, seasonal ingredients and embodies the Italian emphasis on simple preparations that highlight natural flavors.
Simplicity and Freshness
This salad exemplifies the Italian culinary principle of using simple, high-quality, fresh ingredients to create a flavorful dish. It is meant to be a celebration of the ingredients themselves.
Versatility
Arugula salad is incredibly versatile. It can be adapted to different seasons and tastes by adding various fruits, vegetables, nuts, or cheeses. It complements a wide range of main courses.
This salad offers a delightful blend of peppery, citrusy, and slightly sweet flavors, balanced with the umami richness of Parmesan cheese.
The arugula provides a peppery and slightly bitter base. The lemon vinaigrette adds a bright, acidic, and citrusy dimension that cuts through the arugula's bitterness. Shaved fennel contributes a delicate anise-like sweetness and a refreshing crunch. Shaved Parmesan adds a salty, nutty, and savory umami element, rounding out the flavors and adding texture.
Arugula Quality
Choose fresh, vibrant green arugula with no signs of wilting or yellowing. Baby arugula tends to be milder in flavor than mature arugula.
Fennel Preparation
Use a mandoline or a very sharp knife to shave the fennel thinly. Soak the shaved fennel in ice water for a few minutes to enhance its crispness.
Vinaigrette Emulsification
Emulsify the lemon vinaigrette thoroughly by whisking it vigorously or using a blender. This will prevent the oil and lemon juice from separating.
Parmesan Quality
Use freshly shaved Parmesan Reggiano for the best flavor and texture. Pre-grated Parmesan often lacks the same depth of flavor.
Dressing Timing
Dress the salad just before serving to prevent the arugula from wilting.
Explore additional Salad dishes and restaurants
Explore SaladDiscover top dining spots and culinary experiences in Knoxville.
Explore KnoxvilleLearn more about the food culture, restaurant scene, and culinary heritage of United States.
Explore United States