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arugula salad dressing

Fresh Arugula Salad Dressing

This vibrant, peppery arugula salad dressing combines fresh arugula, garlic, and lemon juice for a zesty, homemade vinaigrette that elevates any salad or vegetable dish.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Classic Vinaigrettes
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 62

Ingredients
  

Arugula Dressing Base
  • 2 cups fresh arugula leaves packed
  • 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 clove garlic minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Optional Enhancements
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard optional, for emulsification
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup optional, for sweetness
  • 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast optional, for cheesy flavor

Equipment

  • Blender or food processor
  • Glass jar with lid
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. Combine the fresh arugula leaves, lemon juice, and minced garlic in a blender. Pulse several times to roughly chop.
  2. With the blender running on low speed, slowly drizzle in the olive oil through the feed tube until fully incorporated.
  3. Add the salt and freshly ground pepper, then blend for 30 seconds until completely smooth.
  4. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. If too thick, add a teaspoon of water at a time until reaching desired consistency.
  5. If using optional ingredients (Dijon, honey, nutritional yeast), add them now and blend for another 10-15 seconds.
  6. Transfer to a sealed glass jar or bottle and refrigerate for up to 5 days.

Notes

  • For best flavor, use fresh, young arugula leaves.
  • Shake well before using as separation may occur.
  • The dressing will thicken slightly when refrigerated.
  • For a milder flavor, substitute half the arugula with spinach or parsley.
  • This dressing works beautifully as a marinade for chicken or fish.