Q : Is rocket the same as arugula?

A : Yes, rocket and arugula are the same leafy green. Rocket is the common name in South Africa, the UK, and Australia, while arugula is more commonly used in the US.

Q : What does rocket taste like?

A : Rocket has a peppery, slightly bitter flavor. It pairs well with lemon, olive oil, Parmesan, balsamic vinegar, toasted nuts, pears, tomatoes, and roasted vegetables.

Q : Can you make rocket salad ahead of time?

A : You can prepare the dressing and toppings ahead, but don’t dress the rocket until just before serving. Rocket wilts quickly once dressed.

Q : How do you make rocket less bitter?

A : Balance the bitterness with lemon, olive oil, a little honey or maple syrup, Parmesan, toasted nuts, or sweet add-ins like pear, cherry tomatoes, or roasted beetroot.

Rocket Salad with Lemon and Parmesan (Easy Arugula Salad)

Description

This Rocket Salad is a simple green side salad made with peppery rocket leaves, also known as arugula, tossed in a lemony olive oil dressing and finished with Parmesan shavings and toasted pine nuts.

Ingredients

For the dressing
2-3 tbsp (30-45 ml) extra virgin olive oil
Zest and juice of 1 lemon
1/2 tsp (2.5 ml) honey or maple syrup (optional)
1 garlic clove, finely grated
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the salad
120-140 g (4-5 cups / 5 oz) rocket leaves (arugula)
1/4 cup (25 g) Parmesan, shavings
2 tbsp (15 g) pine nuts, toasted (learn how to toast pine nuts)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the pine nuts
Toast your pine nuts before starting the salad. You can find our step-by-step guide here: How to Toast Pine Nuts (Two Ways!).

Chef’s Tip: Toasting brings out their natural oils and gives a deeper, nuttier flavor — it’s a small step that makes a big difference.

2. Make the dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon zest and juice, honey (if using), and grated garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

3. Dress the rocket
Add the rocket to a large bowl. Drizzle over a small amount of dressing and gently toss to lightly coat.

Chef’s Tip: Rocket wilts quickly, so start with less dressing — you can always add more.

4. Assemble and serve
Transfer to a serving bowl or platter. Top with Parmesan shavings and toasted pine nuts. Serve immediately.

Notes

Storage Instructions

Fridge: This salad is best served fresh, just after dressing.

Make Ahead: Prepare the dressing, toast the pine nuts, and shave the Parmesan ahead of time. Store everything separately and assemble just before serving.

Leftovers: Once dressed, rocket wilts quickly. Leftovers are best eaten the same day.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Category: Salad
Method: No-cook
Cuisine: Mediterranean / Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 118
Sugar: 1.5 g
Sodium: 95.9 mg
Fat: 10.9 g
Carbohydrates: 3.6 g
Protein: 3.2 g
Cholesterol: 3.6 mg