Meet my go-to side salad recipe. I hope it becomes yours, too. This simple salad features fresh arugula and the world’s easiest homemade balsamic salad dressing. This salad truly could not be more easy to make. In fact, it’s so easy that I’ve hesitated to share it with you. It’s hardly a recipe, but one that I make constantly. It’s about time that I bring this method to your attention, you say?
Side salads should be easy to prepare, and this one is so delicious that it doesn’t taste like an afterthought. It goes with just about everything—think Italian entrées like lasagna, sandwiches, scrambled eggs, and even holiday meals. You can use this salad formula with any type of leafy green, but arugula is my favorite. You’ll eat more healthy greens if you keep this recipe in your back pocket. Here we go!
Watch How to Make Simple Arugula Salad
Balsamic Vinegar Options
The key to this salad’s success is using thick balsamic vinegar, not regular runny balsamic. My absolute favorite is Napa Valley Naturals Grand Reserve Balsamic Vinegar (affiliate link/be sure the bottle says “25 stars” on it). It’s typically under $10 at Whole Foods or Natural Grocers. Or, use store-bought or homemade balsamic glaze.
How to Make Homemade Balsamic Glaze
See step-by-step instructions here. In a small, thick-bottomed saucepan over medium heat, bring 1 cup (or more) runny balsamic vinegar to a boil. Reduce the heat to maintain a gentle simmer and cook, stirring often, until the vinegar is reduced by half, about 10 to 15 minutes. Allow the reduction to cool, then transfer to an air-tight jar and store in the pantry.
More Uses for Thick Balsamic Vinegar or Balsamic Glaze
Can you tell that I’m a little obsessed? Add a drizzle of balsamic to any of the following recipes:
Caprese Salad Easy Tomato Salad Strawberry, Basil and Balsamic Pizza or Ultimate Veggie Pizza Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries & Pecans Vanilla ice cream or plain/vanilla yogurt with fresh berries, cherries or stone fruit
Please let me know how you like this simple side salad in the comments below! I love hearing from you.
Make it dairy free/vegan: Simply don’t add the optional cheese. It’s still great without it.
