Description
A vibrant and refreshing Italian salad featuring tender fresh artichokes and peppery arugula, dressed with a zesty lemon-garlic dressing. Perfect for a quick, light meal or side dish.
Ingredients
Scale
- 3 medium fresh artichokes, trimmed and thinly sliced
- 4 cups arugula (about 120 grams), washed and dried
- ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil (80 ml)
- Juice of 1 large lemon (about 3 tablespoons)
- 1 small garlic clove, finely minced
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, shaved or grated (optional)
- Sea salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons capers, rinsed (optional)
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
Instructions
- Fill a large bowl with cold water and squeeze in half a lemon to prevent artichokes from browning.
- Trim the artichokes by snapping off tough outer leaves until tender pale ones remain. Cut off the top third and trim the stem.
- Slice artichokes thinly (about 1/8 inch or 3 mm thick) and immediately transfer to lemon water.
- Drain and pat the artichokes dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, sea salt, and black pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Rinse and dry arugula thoroughly using a salad spinner or towel.
- In a large bowl, combine sliced artichokes, arugula, capers, and cherry tomatoes if using.
- Drizzle dressing over salad and toss gently to coat evenly.
- Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the salad just before serving and toss lightly.
- Serve immediately to enjoy crisp textures and vibrant flavors. If needed, refrigerate covered for up to 30 minutes.
Notes
Use fresh artichokes for best texture and flavor; soak sliced artichokes in lemon water immediately to prevent browning. Do not overdress the salad to keep it crisp. Parmesan cheese is optional and can be replaced with nutritional yeast for a vegan version. Serve immediately for best freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (about 1 c
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 2
- Sodium: 220
- Fat: 16
- Saturated Fat: 2.5
- Carbohydrates: 6
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 3
Keywords: fresh artichoke salad, arugula salad, Italian salad, lemon dressing, easy salad recipe, healthy salad, vegetarian salad, gluten-free salad