What Dressing Goes with Arugula? (11 Dressings)

Knowing what dressing goes with arugula can be tough.

After all, it is such a unique and flavorful green.

But don’t worry, I’m here to help! I’ve rounded up 11 of the best dressings to serve with arugula.

Whether you are looking for a creamy dressing, a vinaigrette, or something in between, there is sure to be something on this list that you’ll love.

So go ahead and give one (or all!) of these dressings a try the next time you make a salad with arugula!

What Dressing Goes with Arugula?

There are many dressings that go well with arugula. You can use a vinaigrette, balsamic vinegar, or even lemon juice. If you want something creamier, you can use a Caesar dressing, blue cheese dressing, or ranch dressing. For a sweeter option, try a honey mustard dressing.

Still looking for ideas?

Then just keep scrolling!

Here are 11 dressings that go with arugula:

1. Greek Dressing

Whenever I’m in Greece, I make sure to have this dressing on hand.

It’s my go-to for salads, grilled meats, and even dipping bread.

The best part about this dressing is that it’s so versatile.

You can use it as-is, or add in some extras like olives, feta cheese, or diced tomatoes.

For a change of pace, try swapping out the arugula for spinach or kale.

2. Honey Dijon Vinaigrette Dressing

This dressing needs no introduction – it’s a classic for a reason!

Honey dijon vinaigrette dressing is the perfect balance of sweet and tangy, and it goes well with so many different types of salads.

To change up this dressing, you could:

• Add a tablespoon or two of balsamic vinegar for extra sweetness.
• Swap out the honey for maple syrup or agave nectar.
• Use white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar in place of the dijon mustard.

3. Ranch Dressing

Ranch is one of my go-to dressings because it goes with just about everything.

If you’re looking for an easy way to change up your ranch dressing, here are a few ideas:

• Add some diced avocado for a creamy, dreamy texture.
• Stir in some diced sun-dried tomatoes for a bit of sweetness and tang.
• Mix in a tablespoon or two of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
• Add a handful of chopped fresh herbs, like parsley, chives, or dill.
• Swap out the milk for almond milk or yogurt to make it dairy-free or extra thick and creamy.

4. Olive Garden Salad (Copycat Version)

I’m sure you’ve tried Olive Garden’s famous salad before, and there’s a reason it’s so popular.

The combination of crispy lettuce, juicy tomatoes, tangy dressing, and crunchy croutons is just irresistible.

While you could definitely use any salad dressing you like with this salad, I think the Olive Garden salad dressing really makes it special.

To change up this dressing, you could:

• Add a tablespoon or two of balsamic vinegar for a more tangy flavor.
• Swap out the olive oil for avocado oil or another light-tasting oil.
• Mix in a teaspoon of Dijon mustard for a little bit of heat.
• Add a clove or two of minced garlic for extra flavor.

5. Thai Peanut Dressing

If you like Asian flavors, you’ll love this Thai peanut dressing.

It’s sweet, savory, and a little bit spicy – the perfect combination for a salad or veggie bowl.

And it couldn’t be easier to make. Just whisk all of the ingredients together in a bowl and you’re done!

To change up this dressing, you could:

• Add more or less chili paste to taste.
• Swap out the rice vinegar for apple cider vinegar or lime juice.
• Use creamy peanut butter instead of crunchy for a smoother dressing.
• Stir in some chopped cilantro or green onions for extra flavor.

6. Green Goddess Dressing

Since arugula is also green, it’s only fitting that you would want to pair it with a green goddess dressing.

This dressing is made with mayo, sour cream, herbs, and avocado, so it’s creamy and packed with flavor.

If you want to change up this dressing, you could:

• Add some spice with a pinch of cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño.
• Make it tangy with the addition of some diced pickles or a splash of vinegar.
• Thicken it up by adding some Greek yogurt or cottage cheese.
• Add some sweetness with a drizzle of honey or agave nectar.

7. Sweet and Spicy Mango Salad Dressing

How do you feel about sweet and spicy mango salad dressing?

If you’re anything like me, you can’t get enough of it!

This dressing is so easy to make and it’s the perfect way to jazz up any boring old salad.

To change up this dressing, you could:

• Add a tablespoon of diced jalapeño for extra spice.
• Use lime juice instead of lemon juice for a tart twist.
• Swap out the mango for pineapple or papaya.
• Add a tablespoon of honey for extra sweetness.

8. Balsamic Vinaigrette

You can easily just buy a bottle of balsamic vinaigrette at the store, but if you want to make your own, it’s super simple.

This balsamic vinaigrette recipe is made with just a few basic ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry.

It’s perfect for salads, but also great as a dipping sauce or even a marinade.

To change up this dressing, you could:

• Add a tablespoon of honey for sweetness.
• Mix in a teaspoon of Dijon mustard for tanginess.
• Stir in a clove of minced garlic for extra flavor.
• Thin it out with a little bit of water or olive oil if it’s too thick.

9. Thousand Island Dressing

How about a classic Thousand Island dressing on your arugula salad?

This sweet and tangy dressing is made with mayonnaise, ketchup, and diced pickles.

It’s the perfect topping for a simple green salad or a more robust salad with hard-boiled eggs and avocado.

If you’re looking for a change from the classic Thousand Island dressing, try one of these variations:

• Replace the ketchup with chili sauce for a spicy twist.
• Add some diced onion or garlic for extra flavor.
• Swap out the mayonnaise for Greek yogurt or sour cream to lighten it up.
• Mix in some chopped bacon or crumbled blue cheese for a delicious twist.

10. Lemon Garlic Tahini Dressing

Lemony, garlicky, and slightly sweet, this delicious dressing is perfect for salads, grain bowls, or as a dipping sauce.

It’s also super easy to make – just whisk all of the ingredients together in a bowl and you’re done!

To change up this dressing, you could:

• Add a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup for more sweetness.
• Mix in a tablespoon of diced onion or shallot for more savory flavor.
• Add a diced jalapeño or some crushed red pepper flakes for spice.
• Stir in a tablespoon of tahini for extra creaminess.

11. Homemade Catalina Dressing

Easy, tasty, and so much healthier than store-bought, this homemade Catalina dressing will be your new go-to!

It’s perfect on a salad, of course, but it would also be delicious as a dipping sauce for chicken or roasted vegetables.

To change up this dressing, you could:

• Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
• Stir in a tablespoon of honey for a touch of sweetness.
• Use diced onion or shallot in place of the green onions.
• Add some heat with a pinch of cayenne pepper.