This Arugula Corn Salad (So Easy, So Delicious!) is the perfect dish for summer gatherings, barbecues, or picnics. The combination of peppery arugula with sweet corn and rich parmesan creates a delightful flavor profile. With its lightness and freshness, this salad is not just easy to make but also a crowd-pleaser. Whether you are serving it as a side or making it the star of your meal, this salad brings vibrant color and taste to any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This salad can be made in just 25 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy days.
- Fresh Ingredients: Featuring seasonal produce like fresh corn and baby arugula, this salad highlights summer flavors beautifully.
- Versatile Pairing: It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or can be enjoyed on its own as a light lunch.
- Nutty Flavor: Toasted pine nuts add a rich, buttery crunch that elevates the overall taste experience.
- Customizable: Adjust the lemon juice or seasoning to suit your palate; it’s easy to make it your own!
Tools and Preparation
To make this Arugula Corn Salad smoothly, having the right tools will enhance your cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large serving bowl
- Small skillet
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large serving bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to toss the ingredients easily without spilling.
- Small skillet: Perfect for toasting pine nuts; it ensures even cooking and prevents burning.
- Knife: A sharp knife makes cutting corn from the cob quick and effortless.
- Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping ingredients while keeping your workspace clean.
Ingredients
This fresh, simple Arugula Corn Salad is a summer favorite with peppery greens tossed with lemon and olive oil, then topped with sweet corn, shaved parmesan, and buttery toasted pine nuts. It’s light, flavorful, and ridiculously easy!
For the Salad
- 6 cups baby arugula (lightly packed (about 5 ounces or 142g))
- 4 ears fresh corn
- 1 teaspoon butter (I use salted)
- ⅓ cup pine nuts
- juice of ½ lemon (more to taste)
- 2-3 tablespoons good quality extra virgin olive oil (more to taste)
- ½ cup shaved or grated Parmesan (we love Parmigiano Reggiano)
- flaky sea salt (to taste (We love Maldon.))
- freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Arugula Corn Salad (So Easy, So Delicious!)
Step 1: Prepare the Corn
- Use an easy microwave method or boil the corn until tender.
- Cut the kernels off the cob and set aside.
Step 2: Toast the Pine Nuts
- In a small skillet, melt the butter over medium heat until it sizzles.
- Add the pine nuts and stir quickly. Lower the heat immediately.
- Cook while stirring frequently until they turn golden brown and fragrant.
- Transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to cool.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients for Salad
- Place the arugula in a large serving bowl.
- Drizzle with olive oil (2-3 tablespoons) and squeeze juice from half a lemon over it.
- Sprinkle flaky sea salt and freshly ground black pepper over the greens.
- Toss gently to coat all leaves evenly.
Step 4: Add Toppings
- Taste one of the leaves; adjust salt, pepper, oil, or lemon juice as needed.
- Top with sweet corn kernels and drizzle lightly with more olive oil if desired.
- Finish by adding shaved parmesan cheese and toasted pine nuts on top.
Step 5: Serve Your Salad
- Serve immediately for maximum freshness. Toss lightly before serving if you prefer.
Enjoy this delicious Arugula Corn Salad as a refreshing side dish that’s bound to impress!
How to Serve Arugula Corn Salad (So Easy, So Delicious!)
Serving your Arugula Corn Salad is just as important as preparing it. This salad is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.
As a Light Lunch
- Pair with whole grain bread for a satisfying meal.
- Add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
As a Side Dish
- Serve alongside grilled meats like chicken or steak.
- Perfect with fish tacos for a refreshing contrast.
At Summer Picnics
- Pack in portable containers for outdoor gatherings.
- Serve in individual cups for easy sharing.
With Additional Toppings
- Sprinkle with sliced avocado for creaminess.
- Add diced tomatoes for extra color and flavor.
How to Perfect Arugula Corn Salad (So Easy, So Delicious!)
Perfecting your Arugula Corn Salad can elevate its taste and presentation. Here are some tips to ensure your salad shines every time.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh arugula and corn make all the difference in flavor.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste and modify lemon juice, salt, and pepper according to your preference.
- Toast pine nuts carefully: Keep an eye on them while toasting, as they can burn quickly.
- Serve immediately: For the best texture, serve the salad right after assembling it.
Best Side Dishes for Arugula Corn Salad (So Easy, So Delicious!)
Complementing your Arugula Corn Salad with the right side dishes can create a complete meal. Here are some fantastic options that pair well with this delicious salad.
- Grilled Chicken: Juicy chicken breasts seasoned simply enhance the flavors of the salad.
- Fish Tacos: Lightly seasoned fish in soft tortillas provide a great contrast to the salad’s freshness.
- Vegetable Skewers: Colorful skewers of grilled veggies add texture and nutrition.
- Quinoa Pilaf: A nutty quinoa dish offers a hearty addition that’s still light and healthy.
- Roasted Potatoes: Crispy potatoes seasoned with herbs make a comforting side that complements the salad.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil bring an Italian flair that pairs nicely with arugula.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
A few common mistakes can make your Arugula Corn Salad less enjoyable. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
Using stale ingredients: Always use fresh arugula and corn for the best flavor. Check your produce before starting the recipe.
Overdressing the salad: Too much olive oil or lemon can overpower the delicate flavors. Start with less and add more as needed.
Not seasoning properly: A lack of salt and pepper can dull your salad’s taste. Make sure to season gradually and taste as you go.
Skipping the toasting step: Toasting pine nuts enhances their flavor and crunch. Don’t skip this step; it’s key for a delicious salad.
Chilling before serving: Serving the salad right after preparation keeps the greens crisp. Avoid letting it sit too long in the fridge before serving.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- The salad is best eaten within 1-2 days for optimal freshness.
Freezing Arugula Corn Salad (So Easy, So Delicious!)
- It is not recommended to freeze this salad due to the texture changes in arugula and corn.
- However, you can freeze individual components, like cooked corn or toasted pine nuts, for later use.
Reheating Arugula Corn Salad (So Easy, So Delicious!)
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the salad components on a baking sheet for a few minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish and heat in short intervals (15-20 seconds), stirring in between to avoid overheating.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over low heat and add the salad. Stir gently until warmed through, taking care not to wilt the arugula too much.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Arugula Corn Salad?
Arugula Corn Salad is a refreshing mix of peppery arugula greens combined with sweet corn, toasted pine nuts, and parmesan cheese, all dressed with lemon juice and olive oil.
Can I customize my Arugula Corn Salad?
Absolutely! You can add additional ingredients like cherry tomatoes, avocado, or diced bell peppers for extra color and flavor.
How do I make my Arugula Corn Salad vegan?
To make this salad vegan, simply omit the parmesan cheese or substitute it with a vegan cheese alternative.
What can I serve with Arugula Corn Salad?
This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, fish tacos, or as a light side dish at summer barbecues.
Final Thoughts
This Arugula Corn Salad (So Easy, So Delicious!) is not only quick to prepare but also versatile enough for any dining occasion. Its fresh ingredients allow you to customize it based on your preferences or seasonal availability. Give it a try and enjoy a burst of flavors that celebrate summer!
Arugula Corn Salad (So Easy, So Delicious!)
Arugula Corn Salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish that perfectly captures the essence of summer. With its peppery arugula, sweet corn, and rich parmesan, this salad is a delightful blend of flavors that will please any crowd. Quick to prepare in just 25 minutes, it’s an ideal choice for busy days, picnics, or barbecues. The added crunch of toasted pine nuts brings a nutty richness, making this salad not only delicious but also a visually appealing centerpiece for your table. Whether enjoyed as a light lunch or paired with grilled meats, this Arugula Corn Salad is sure to brighten up your meal.
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- 6 cups baby arugula (lightly packed (about 5 ounces or 142g))
- 4 ears fresh corn
- 1 teaspoon butter (I use salted)
- ⅓ cup pine nuts
- juice of ½ lemon (more to taste)
- 2–3 tablespoons good quality extra virgin olive oil (more to taste)
- ½ cup shaved or grated Parmesan (we love Parmigiano Reggiano)
- flaky sea salt (to taste (We love Maldon.))
- freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the corn by microwaving or boiling until tender; cut kernels off the cob.
- Toast pine nuts in a small skillet with melted butter over medium heat until golden brown; set aside to cool.
- In a large serving bowl, combine arugula with olive oil and lemon juice; season with salt and pepper.
- Add corn kernels and toss gently; top with parmesan and toasted pine nuts.
- Serve immediately for maximum freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 5mg