Arugula is easy to grow, even in a window box, so if you enjoy its flavor, consider growing it yourself. Here it teams up with roasted mushrooms and shavings of Parmigiano.
SERVES: 4
INGREDIENTS:
- 8 ounces cremini or white mushrooms, cleaned, trimmed, and quartered if large
- ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground pepper
- 2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar, plus a few drops for drizzling
- 2 bunches arugula, trimmed and torn into bite-size pieces (about 6 cups)
- 2-ounce piece of Parmigiano-Reggiano for shaving
INSTRUCTIONS:
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a small baking pan, toss the mushrooms with 2 tablespoons of the olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Roast the mushrooms in the preheated oven until they are tender and lightly browned, approximately 15 minutes. Let them cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 2 teaspoons of balsamic vinegar, and a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the torn arugula to the bowl and toss well to coat the leaves with the dressing.
- Arrange the dressed arugula on four salad plates.
- Top the arugula with the roasted mushrooms.
- Drizzle a few drops of balsamic vinegar over each salad.
- Using a vegetable peeler, shave some of the Parmigiano-Reggiano over each salad.
- Serve and enjoy!
MORE ABOUT THIS SALAD:
Arugula, Roasted Cremini, and Parmesan Salad is a simple yet sophisticated salad that combines the peppery bite of arugula with the earthy flavors of roasted cremini mushrooms and the nuttiness of Parmesan cheese. Here are a few lines about this delicious salad:
- Peppery Greens: The star ingredient of this salad is arugula, known for its distinctive peppery flavor. The tender leaves of arugula add a pleasant bitterness and a hint of spice, making it a perfect base for this salad.
- Roasted Cremini Mushrooms: The cremini mushrooms are roasted to enhance their natural earthy and meaty flavors. The roasting process adds depth and richness to the salad, complementing the arugula beautifully.
- Shavings of Parmesan Cheese: The salad is topped with delicate shavings of Parmesan cheese. Parmesan’s salty and nutty profile adds a layer of complexity and a touch of umami to the salad.
- Simple Lemon Dressing: A light and tangy lemon dressing is drizzled over the salad, providing a refreshing citrusy note. The acidity of the lemon juice balances the richness of the mushrooms and the cheese, while also brightening the flavors.
- Texture and Crunch: The combination of the tender arugula, meaty mushrooms, and delicate Parmesan shavings creates a variety of textures in each bite. The salad offers a pleasant contrast between the crispness of the greens, the softness of the roasted mushrooms, and the delicate crunch of the cheese.
- Versatile and Adaptable: While this salad is delicious as it is, you can customize it to your liking by adding additional ingredients. Some variations may include toasted pine nuts, cherry tomatoes, or a drizzle of balsamic reduction for added sweetness.
Arugula, Roasted Cremini, and Parmesan Salad is a flavorful and elegant choice for salad lovers. Its combination of peppery greens, savory roasted mushrooms, and rich Parmesan creates a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that is both satisfying and refreshing.
