Arugula is my favorite lettuce because of its natural spiciness.  It’s perfect for seared salmon salads, and light, sweet vinaigrettes.  Arugula is easily transformed into pesto, which can be used on a large variety of sandwiches (paninis especially), chicken, and fish.

Prep time 15 minutes

Serves 6-8

Ingredients

6 cups packed arugula leaves

1 cup Parmesan or pecorino cheese

1 cup pine nuts

juice of 1 lemon

3 cloves minced garlic

1 cup good quality extra virgin olive oil

1 tablespoon fresh cracked black pepper

½ teaspoon Kosher or sea salt

Directions

Place all of the ingredients besides the olive oil in a food processor and mix with the blade attachment for 90 seconds.

Slowly add the olive oil until it is gone continuing to mix.

Add the salt and pepper- adjust for seasonings.