Are you a fan of peppery, fresh arugula? Whether it’s adding some zing to a salad or serving as a side dish, this leafy green is sure to impress. And when you sauté it with some tasty ingredients, the possibilities are endless! In this article, we’ll explore 18 flavorful sautéed arugula recipes that are perfect for every occasion.
From classic combinations like garlic and lemon to more adventurous pairings like chili flakes and pancetta, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re in the mood for a light and refreshing side dish or something heartier to accompany your main course, these recipes are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
In this article, we’ll delve into the world of sautéed arugula and explore some of our favorite recipes that showcase its unique flavor. From savory and umami-rich to bright and citrusy, each recipe is carefully crafted to bring out the best in this versatile leafy green.
So what are you waiting for? Let’s get cooking and discover a whole new world of flavors with sautéed arugula!
Garlic and Lemon Sauteed Arugula
A bright and flavorful side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This simple recipe highlights the peppery taste of arugula with a punch of garlic and citrus.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups arugula
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and saute for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the arugula in batches, allowing each batch to wilt before adding the next.
4. Squeeze the lemon juice over the arugula and toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Sauteed Arugula with Cherry Tomatoes
This simple yet flavorful recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a light lunch. The peppery arugula and sweet cherry tomatoes are sautéed to perfection in just a few minutes, making it a great option when you’re short on time.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups arugula
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until they start to release their juices.
4. Add the arugula and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. If desired, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Spicy Sauteed Arugula with Chili Flakes
Add a kick to your salad game with this simple and flavorful recipe.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups arugula
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon chili flakes
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: lemon wedges and shaved Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions:
1. Rinse the arugula and spin it dry.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chili flakes and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
4. Add the arugula to the skillet and stir to combine with the chili flake mixture.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the arugula has wilted slightly and developed a spicy flavor.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with lemon wedges and shaved Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Sauteed Arugula and Mushroom Medley
Elevate your meal with this flavorful and nutritious sautéed arugula and mushroom medley, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups arugula
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
4. Add the arugula to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 1-2 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Creamy Sauteed Arugula with Parmesan
A simple yet elegant side dish that elevates the flavor of arugula with a rich and creamy sauce, topped with shaved Parmesan cheese. Perfect for accompanying pasta dishes, grilled meats, or as a standalone salad.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups arugula
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup shaved Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
2. Add the arugula to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine with the arugula. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer the sauce for an additional 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Stir in the shaved Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined with the arugula.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sauteed Arugula with Toasted Pine Nuts
Add a burst of flavor and texture to your meals with this simple yet elegant side dish. This recipe combines the peppery taste of arugula with the rich, nutty flavor of toasted pine nuts.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups arugula
– 1/2 cup pine nuts
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 clove garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the pine nuts and toast for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant and lightly browned.
3. Remove the pine nuts from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the olive oil and saute the arugula for 1-2 minutes, or until slightly wilted.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and minced garlic (if using).
6. Stir in the toasted pine nuts and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Sauteed Arugula
This recipe adds a tangy and sweet twist to the classic sautéed arugula dish, perfect for a quick and flavorful side or add-on. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll be enjoying this delightful treat in no time!
Ingredients:
– 4 cups fresh arugula
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze (or 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar + 1 tablespoon honey)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the arugula and cook for 2-3 minutes or until wilted.
4. Stir in the balsamic glaze (or mixture) and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cook for an additional 1 minute, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: Approximately 6-8 minutes
Enjoy your Balsamic Glazed Sauteed Arugula!
Sauteed Arugula with Caramelized Onions
A flavorful and vibrant side dish that pairs perfectly with grilled meats or as a topping for sandwiches. This recipe combines the peppery taste of arugula with the sweet, caramelized onions.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups arugula
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: balsamic glaze or red wine vinegar (for added depth)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat.
2. Add the sliced onions and cook for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they caramelize and turn golden brown.
3. Add the arugula to the skillet, tossing to combine with the caramelized onions.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with balsamic glaze or red wine vinegar if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Sauteed Arugula and Garlic Scapes
A flavorful and healthy side dish that combines the peppery taste of arugula with the pungency of garlic scapes. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a accompaniment to your favorite main course.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups arugula, washed and drained
– 2-3 garlic scapes, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced garlic scapes and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until fragrant and slightly caramelized.
3. Add the arugula to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until wilted and tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Sauteed Arugula with Crispy Prosciutto
This recipe adds a new dimension to the classic arugula salad by introducing crispy prosciutto, which provides a satisfying crunch and savory flavor. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can elevate your salad game in no time.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups arugula
– 6 slices of prosciutto
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the prosciutto slices and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until crispy and golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the olive oil and arugula. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, or until the arugula has wilted slightly.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Add the cooked prosciutto back into the skillet and toss with the arugula.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sauteed Arugula and White Bean Salad
This salad combines the peppery flavor of arugula with the creamy texture of cannellini beans, all wrapped up in a flavorful sauté. Perfect as a side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups arugula
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the arugula and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in the cannellini beans and season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
5. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sauteed Arugula with Roasted Red Peppers
Elevate your salads and side dishes with this flavorful combination of peppery arugula and sweet roasted red peppers.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups arugula, fresh
– 2 large red bell peppers, roasted (see notes)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese, 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the roasted red peppers and saute for 3-4 minutes, or until slightly caramelized.
3. Add the arugula to the skillet, stirring to combine with the peppers and oil.
4. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until the arugula has wilted to your liking.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. If desired, sprinkle with feta cheese and walnuts before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sauteed Arugula and Goat Cheese Tart
Elevate your dinner party with this elegant and flavorful tart that combines the peppery taste of arugula with the creaminess of goat cheese. Perfect as an appetizer or main course, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 2 cups fresh arugula
– 1/4 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry to desired thickness. Place on prepared baking sheet.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add arugula and cook until slightly wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Spread cooked arugula mixture evenly over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
5. Top with crumbled goat cheese. Fold edges of pastry up over filling to form a crust.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sauteed Arugula with Lemon Zest and Olive Oil
Add a burst of citrusy freshness to your meal with this simple yet flavorful recipe. This dish is perfect as a side or added to sandwiches, salads, or pasta dishes.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups arugula
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the arugula and cook until slightly wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in the lemon juice and lemon zest. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional lemon zest if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-7 minutes
Sauteed Arugula and Pancetta Delight
A flavorful and healthy side dish that combines the peppery taste of arugula with the crispy, savory goodness of pancetta.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups arugula leaves
– 6 slices pancetta (Italian bacon)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the pancetta slices and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until crispy.
3. Remove the pancetta from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and saute for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
5. Add the arugula leaves to the skillet and toss with the garlic and oil.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the arugula is slightly wilted.
7. Return the pancetta to the skillet and toss with the arugula to combine.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sauteed Arugula with Garlic Butter Shrimp
This recipe combines the peppery flavor of arugula with the richness of garlic butter shrimp, making for a quick and flavorful dinner. The best part? It’s ready in just 15 minutes!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup fresh arugula leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, add the arugula leaves and cook until wilted, about 1 minute.
6. Serve the shrimp over the arugula and season with salt and pepper to taste. Offer lemon wedges on the side for added brightness.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Sauteed Arugula and Sweet Corn Saute
This recipe combines the peppery flavor of arugula with the natural sweetness of corn, creating a delightful summer salad. It’s perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner that’s full of nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups fresh arugula
– 1 cup sweet corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the sweet corn kernels and cook for 3-4 minutes until they start to brown.
4. Add the arugula to the skillet, stirring to combine with the corn and garlic.
5. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the arugula is slightly wilted.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Sauteed Arugula with Crispy Fried Shallots
A flavorful and refreshing side dish that combines the peppery taste of arugula with the crunch of crispy fried shallots.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups arugula, chopped
– 2 large shallots, thinly sliced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced shallots and cook for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
3. Remove the shallots from the skillet with a slotted spoon and set aside on paper towels to drain excess oil.
4. In the same skillet, add the chopped arugula and cook for 1-2 minutes or until slightly wilted.
5. Season the arugula with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Add the crispy fried shallots back into the skillet with the arugula and toss to combine.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Looking for ways to elevate your salads and add some flavor to your meals? Look no further! This article features 18 mouth-watering sautéed arugula recipes perfect for every occasion. From classic garlic and lemon combinations to spicy twists with chili flakes, these dishes are sure to impress. Try pairing peppery arugula with sweet caramelized onions or tangy goat cheese, or go bold with crispy prosciutto and pancetta delights. Whatever your taste buds crave, you’ll find a sautéed arugula recipe to satisfy in this collection of flavorful and easy-to-make dishes.
