After a busy week spent juggling work, family, and never-ending to-do lists, I found myself craving something refreshingly light and bursting with flavor. That’s when a simple idea struck: how about a vibrant Spinach Arugula Salad with a zesty lemon vinaigrette? The memory of a picnic on a sunlit afternoon flooded my mind, reminding me of the joys of fresh greens and the tangy brightness that lemon brings to any dish.
Not only is this salad quick to whip up, but it also showcases the delightful crunch of toasted almonds and creamy avocado, making it a feast for both the eyes and the palate. Each bite is a reminder that healthy eating doesn’t have to be boring or complicated. Best of all, this dish is a wonderful way to combat those fast-food cravings we all face from time to time.
Join me in exploring how to recreate this delicious, nutrient-packed delight in your kitchen—perfect for lunch, dinner, or as a side at your next gathering!
Why is this Simple Spinach Arugula Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette a must-try?
Quick and Easy: With just a handful of ingredients, this salad comes together in a snap, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Vibrant Flavors: The zesty lemon vinaigrette elevates fresh greens, complemented by the crunch of toasted almonds and the creaminess of avocado.
Nutritious Powerhouse: Packed with vitamins and healthy fats, this salad provides a nourishing boost without sacrificing taste.
Versatile Delight: Serve it as a light meal or as a side dish for your favorite protein. Its flexibility makes it suitable for any occasion!
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether at a picnic or dinner table, this salad is sure to impress friends and family, turning even the most devoted fast-food lovers into salad enthusiasts!
Elevate your salad game and enjoy making this vibrant dish with delicious lemon vinaigrette!
Simple Spinach Arugula Salad Ingredients
For the Lemon Vinaigrette
• Juice & zest of 1 large lemon – adds a bright, tangy flavor essential for the dressing.
• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil – provides richness and helps emulsify the dressing.
• ¼ tsp fresh ground black pepper – enhances the overall flavor profile with a hint of spice.
• ½ tsp sea salt – elevates and balances all the ingredients in the dressing.
• 1 tsp agave nectar or maple syrup – a touch of sweetness to counter the acidity of the lemon.
• 1 tsp dijon or yellow mustard (optional) – gives an extra layer of flavor and a bit of creaminess.
For the Salad
• 3 heaping cups fresh arugula – adds a peppery bite and vibrant green color.
• 3 heaping cups fresh baby spinach – provides a mild taste and nutrient boost to the salad.
• ½ cup toasted slivered almonds – contributes crunch and healthy fats to the dish.
• ¼ cup shaved or grated parmesan (dairy-free like Violife Just Like Parmesan) – offers a savory depth, perfect for a plant-based option.
• Lemon Dressing – add to taste, starting with 3-4 tbsp for a zesty kick.
• ½ a fresh avocado (sliced thin or diced) – adds creaminess and complements the flavors beautifully.
Make this Simple Spinach Arugula Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette your go-to salad and embrace the exquisite freshness it brings to your meals!
How to Make Simple Spinach Arugula Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
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Mix the dressing: In a small sealable jar, combine the lemon juice, zest, olive oil, black pepper, sea salt, agave nectar (or maple syrup), and mustard if using. Shake thoroughly until well combined, then set aside.
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Prepare the greens: In a large salad bowl, add the arugula and spinach. Toss gently to combine, ensuring that each leaf is nestled in that lovely mix of greens.
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Add the toppings: Toss in the toasted almonds and dairy-free parmesan to the greens. This adds delightful crunch and richness.
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Dress the salad: When ready to serve, drizzle the lemon dressing over the salad. Start with 3-4 tablespoons and toss well until every leaf is coated in that bright, zesty flavor.
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Finish and serve: Top your salad with fresh avocado slices and sprinkle with additional sea salt and fresh cracked black pepper to taste. Serve immediately to enjoy those fresh, vibrant flavors!
Optional: Garnish with extra slivers of toasted almonds for added crunch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Simple Spinach Arugula Salad Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this salad your own with these delightful twists and substitutions!
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Nut-Free: Replace toasted almonds with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a delightful crunch without the nuts.
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Fruit-Infused: Add slices of juicy strawberries or apples for a sweet contrast to the zesty lemon dressing. It really brightens the dish!
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Protein-Packed: Toss in some grilled chicken or chickpeas for a satisfying protein boost that rounds out the meal perfectly.
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Herbaceous Twist: Incorporate fresh herbs like basil or mint to elevate the flavors and bring a refreshing taste to the salad.
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Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy some heat, consider adding sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the dressing for an exciting zing.
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Different Greens: Swap out the arugula or spinach for kale, romaine, or any leafy green you have on hand. Each variation offers a unique texture and flavor experience.
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Creamy Addition: Mix in some crumbled feta cheese or creamy goat cheese for an added layer of richness that complements the avocado beautifully.
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Dijon Kick: If you love a hint of tang, increase the dijon mustard in the vinaigrette for a punchy taste that brings everything together in a delicious way!
Explore these variations to create your perfect Simple Spinach Arugula Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette! Each adaptation offers a delightful new experience that’s sure to impress.
Expert Tips for Simple Spinach Arugula Salad
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Fresh Ingredients Matter: Always use fresh arugula and spinach. Wilted greens can dampen the bright flavors of your Simple Spinach Arugula Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette.
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Balance the Dressing: Start with less lemon dressing and add more gradually. This helps avoid overwhelming the greens and keeps each bite delightful.
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Toast Almonds Perfectly: Watch your toasted almonds closely as they cook. It’s easy to burn them, which can lead to an undesirable bitterness in the salad.
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Customize Your Greens: Mix and match other greens like kale or mesclun if desired. Each added green will bring its unique flavor and texture.
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Serving Suggestions: Pair this salad with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal, and don’t hesitate to serve it as a side option at gatherings!
What to Serve with Simple Spinach Arugula Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette?
Elevate your meal experience with enticing accompaniments that enhance the flavors of your vibrant salad.
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Grilled Chicken: Juicy and seasoned chicken adds protein and a lovely contrast to the fresh greens.
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Quinoa Pilaf: This fluffy, nutty side brings a hearty texture, complementing the lightness of the salad beautifully.
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Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness and warm flavor provide a comforting balance to the zesty lemon dressing.
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Avocado Toast: A slice of whole-grain bread topped with creamy avocado echoes the salad’s ingredients, enhancing cohesiveness.
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Sparkling Water with Lemon: A refreshing drink that echoes the citrus notes of the salad, perfect for cleansing the palate.
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Fruit Sorbet: End your meal on a sweet note with a light, fruity sorbet that stimulates the taste buds without weighing you down.
With these delightful pairings, your Simple Spinach Arugula Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette will become the star of any meal!
Make Ahead Options
This Simple Spinach Arugula Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy fresh flavors throughout the week! You can prepare the lemon vinaigrette and store it in a sealed jar in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The greens can also be washed, dried, and mixed in advance, ready to be tossed together in the salad bowl for up to 24 hours before serving. To maintain their crispness, wait to add the toasted almonds and avocado until just before serving. When ready to enjoy, simply drizzle on the prepared dressing, toss well, and savor a beautifully vibrant salad with minimal effort!
How to Store and Freeze Simple Spinach Arugula Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
Room Temperature: Best enjoyed fresh—do not leave out for more than 2 hours to maintain the salad’s crispness and flavor.
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Keep the lemon vinaigrette separate until ready to serve to prevent soggy greens.
Freezer: Freezing is not recommended for this salad, as the greens and avocado may lose their texture upon thawing.
Reheating: This salad is meant to be served cold. If you’ve included the dressing, simply toss everything again before serving to refresh the flavors.
Simple Spinach Arugula Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select ripe lemons for the dressing?
Absolutely! When choosing lemons, look for ones that are firm and slightly heavy for their size. A lemon should have smooth, shiny skin, and it’s best if it gives slightly when squeezed. Avoid any that have dark spots or are overly soft.
How should I store leftovers of the Simple Spinach Arugula Salad?
For any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Make sure to keep the lemon vinaigrette separate to avoid soggy greens, adding it just before serving.
Can I freeze the Simple Spinach Arugula Salad?
Freezing is not recommended for this salad due to its fresh ingredients. If you freeze the salad, the greens and avocado will lose their crispness and texture. Instead, enjoy it fresh, making it an ideal quick dish!
What if I have an allergy to nuts?
No worries! If you have a nut allergy, simply omit the toasted almonds from the Simple Spinach Arugula Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette. You can replace them with roasted seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds for that needed crunch.
How can I make the dressing ahead of time?
Great question! You can make the lemon vinaigrette ahead of time by mixing all the dressing ingredients in a jar and storing it in the fridge for up to a week. Just give it a good shake before using, as it may separate.
What should I do if the dressing is too tangy?
If your lemon dressing turns out too tangy, you can balance the flavors by adding a bit more olive oil or a teaspoon of agave nectar or maple syrup to soften the acidity. Taste and adjust until it satisfies your palate!
Brighten Your Day with Simple Spinach Arugula Salad & Lemon Vinaigrette
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a small sealable jar, combine the lemon juice, zest, olive oil, black pepper, sea salt, agave nectar (or maple syrup), and mustard if using. Shake thoroughly until well combined, then set aside.
- In a large salad bowl, add the arugula and spinach. Toss gently to combine, ensuring that each leaf is nestled in that lovely mix of greens.
- Toss in the toasted almonds and dairy-free parmesan to the greens. This adds delightful crunch and richness.
- When ready to serve, drizzle the lemon dressing over the salad. Start with 3-4 tablespoons and toss well until every leaf is coated in that bright, zesty flavor.
- Top your salad with fresh avocado slices and sprinkle with additional sea salt and fresh cracked black pepper to taste. Serve immediately to enjoy those fresh, vibrant flavors!