Arugula Recipes Vegan Lovers Will Adore

Arugula is a vibrant, peppery green that adds a delightful punch to any dish, and it’s especially beloved in the vegan kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned plant-based eater or simply looking to incorporate more greens into your meals, arugula offers endless versatility and nutritional benefits.

From fresh salads to warm sautés, its slightly spicy flavor complements a wide range of ingredients, making it a must-have in your recipe collection.

In this post, we’ll explore several delicious and easy-to-make vegan arugula recipes that showcase this leafy green’s best qualities. You’ll learn how to prepare arugula-centric dishes that are not only nutritious but bursting with flavor.

Plus, we’ll share handy tips, nutritional info, and serving suggestions to inspire your next meal. Ready to get cooking with arugula?

Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Arugula is more than just a salad green. Its bold, peppery taste adds depth to simple dishes, elevating the overall flavor profile without overpowering other ingredients.

These vegan recipes are designed to highlight arugula’s natural zest while being incredibly easy to prepare. Whether you want a quick lunch, a light dinner, or a flavorful side, these recipes fit the bill.

Plus, arugula is packed with vitamins A, C, and K, along with antioxidants and fiber, making it a powerhouse for your health. Incorporating these recipes into your weekly rotation is a fantastic way to boost your nutrient intake while enjoying fresh, plant-based meals.

Ingredients

• 4 cups fresh arugula, washed and dried
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup cooked quinoa or your favorite grain
• 1/4 cup sliced almonds, toasted
• 1 avocado, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice, fresh
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Optional: 1/4 cup nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor
• Optional: 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Salad tongs or two large spoons
• Small bowl for dressing
• Whisk or fork for mixing dressing
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring spoons
• Toaster or skillet for toasting almonds

Instructions

1. Toast the almonds: In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the sliced almonds until golden and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes. Stir frequently to avoid burning. Set aside to cool.
2. Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
3. Combine the salad ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the fresh arugula, halved cherry tomatoes, cooked quinoa, diced avocado, and sun-dried tomatoes if using.
4. Toss with dressing: Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently with salad tongs or two spoons to evenly coat everything.
5. Add toasted almonds and optional nutritional yeast: Sprinkle the toasted almonds and nutritional yeast over the top, giving the salad a final gentle toss.
6. Serve immediately: This salad is best enjoyed fresh. Serve it as a light lunch or a vibrant side dish.

Tips & Variations

For a heartier meal, add roasted chickpeas or your favorite beans for extra protein.

If you like some sweetness, drizzle a little maple syrup or agave nectar into the dressing.

Try swapping quinoa with other grains like farro, bulgur, or couscous for different textures.

To add more crunch, sprinkle in some pumpkin seeds or hemp seeds instead of almonds. For a Mediterranean twist, add kalamata olives and artichoke hearts.

If you prefer your greens warm, quickly sauté the arugula with garlic and lemon before tossing with the other ingredients.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This arugula salad pairs wonderfully with crusty vegan bread or as a side to a warm grain bowl. For a complete meal, serve alongside dishes like Hamburger Bun Sourdough Recipe or a light vegetable soup.

It also makes a perfect topping for a vegan flatbread or pizza, adding freshness and a peppery bite after baking. For brunch, enjoy it alongside a tofu scramble or vegan frittata for a balanced plate.

More Delicious Vegan Arugula Recipes

Arugula and White Bean Vegan Pesto Pasta

This creamy, vibrant pasta uses arugula to create a peppery pesto that’s both healthy and satisfying. Blend arugula, garlic, lemon, white beans, and olive oil for a protein-packed sauce.

Toss with your favorite pasta and garnish with toasted pine nuts.

Warm Roasted Beet and Arugula Salad

Roasted beets bring earthiness and sweetness to this salad, balanced by fresh arugula and a tangy balsamic vinaigrette. Add walnuts and orange segments for texture and brightness.

Arugula and Sweet Potato Buddha Bowl

Roasted sweet potatoes, cooked quinoa, chickpeas, and fresh arugula come together in this colorful bowl. Drizzle with tahini dressing and sprinkle with sesame seeds for a nourishing meal.

For detailed instructions on preparing these dishes, be sure to check out our Half Runner Beans Recipe for a great legume pairing, and explore more vegan delights like the Kodiak Banana Muffins Recipe for a sweet finish to your meal.

Conclusion

Arugula is a versatile and flavorful green that shines in a variety of vegan recipes. Its peppery zest adds excitement to salads, pastas, and bowls, while also boosting the nutritional profile of your meals.

The recipes shared here are simple yet packed with taste, perfect for anyone looking to enjoy healthy, plant-based dishes.

With easy-to-find ingredients and straightforward techniques, you can bring the vibrant freshness of arugula to your kitchen any day of the week. Don’t hesitate to experiment with the variations and serving ideas to make these dishes uniquely yours.

Happy cooking, and be sure to explore more creative vegan recipes on our site!

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