Gordon Ramsay Rocket Salad

This Gordon Ramsay Rocket Salad Recipe is a fresh, peppery, and beautifully balanced dish featuring rocket (arugula), shaved Parmesan, toasted pine nuts, and a simple yet zesty lemon vinaigrette. It’s the perfect light side salad or starter, pairing especially well with grilled meats, seafood, or pasta. Ready in just 10 minutes, this salad is proof that elegance lies in simplicity.

What is Gordon Ramsay’s Rocket Salad?

Gordon Ramsay’s rocket salad is a light and vibrant dish made with fresh arugula (rocket), bold Parmesan, and a tangy lemon-based dressing. The combination of peppery greens and rich toppings makes this a go-to salad for complementing rich main courses or enjoying as a refreshing appetizer.

Other Gordon Ramsay Recipes

• Gordon Ramsay Chilli Jam
• Gordon Ramsay Strawberry Jam
• Gordon Ramsay Prawn Cocktail
• Gordon Ramsay Buffalo Wings
• Gordon Ramsay Tomato Relish

Reasons to Try Gordon Ramsay Rocket Salad

• Quick and easy to prepare—done in 10 minutes
• Bright, peppery, and full of fresh flavor
• Pairs well with almost any main course
• Light and nutritious, but never boring
• Simple ingredients with a gourmet twist

Ingredients Needed to Make Gordon Ramsay’s Rocket Salad

For the Salad

• 4 cups fresh rocket (arugula), washed and dried
• ⅓ cup shaved Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons pine nuts, lightly toasted
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the Lemon Vinaigrette

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (or white wine vinegar)
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• ½ teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional, to balance acidity)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Optional Additions

• Sliced cherry tomatoes
• Avocado slices
• Thinly sliced red onions
• Grilled chicken or prawns (to make it a full meal)

Instructions to Prepare Gordon Ramsay Rocket Salad

Step 1: Make the Dressing

• In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and honey.
• Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
• Whisk until emulsified and set aside.

Step 2: Toast the Pine Nuts

• In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the pine nuts for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently until golden and fragrant.
• Remove from heat and let cool.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

• In a large mixing bowl, add the fresh rocket.
• Drizzle with the lemon vinaigrette and toss gently to coat.
• Add shaved Parmesan and toasted pine nuts.

Step 4: Serve and Garnish

• Plate the salad and finish with an extra grind of black pepper.
• Serve immediately while fresh and crisp.

What Goes Well With Gordon Ramsay Rocket Salad

• Grilled Steak or Chicken – The peppery rocket cuts through the richness
• Pasta Dishes – Pairs beautifully with creamy or tomato-based pastas
• Seafood like Shrimp or Scallops – Bright flavors complement light proteins
• Roast Vegetables or Frittatas – Makes a balanced, healthy meal
• Crusty Bread or Flatbread – For texture and extra satisfaction

Key Tips for Making Gordon Ramsay Rocket Salad

• Use fresh, young rocket leaves for the best peppery flavor without bitterness
• Toast the pine nuts just before serving to bring out their full flavor
• Don’t overdress the salad—rocket wilts quickly with too much dressing
• Add shaved Parmesan just before serving for the best texture and flavor
• Balance acidity in the vinaigrette with a touch of sweetness if needed

Creative Variations of Gordon Ramsay Rocket Salad

• Pear & Rocket Salad – Add thin slices of ripe pear and walnuts
• Rocket & Beetroot Salad – Include roasted beet slices and goat cheese
• Rocket & Feta Salad – Crumble in tangy feta and add cucumbers
• Spicy Rocket Salad – Add red pepper flakes or chili oil to the vinaigrette
• Mediterranean Rocket Salad – Toss in olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and oregano

Storage Guidelines for Gordon Ramsay Rocket Salad

• Best served fresh immediately after tossing
• If prepping ahead, store dressing separately and toss just before serving
• Keep components chilled for up to 1 day—but avoid storing dressed salad, as rocket wilts quickly

Reheating Tips for Gordon Ramsay Rocket Salad

• Not suitable for reheating—this is a fresh, cold salad
• Only toast nuts and warm proteins if serving warm additions

FAQs

Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

Yes! Store it in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to 3 days. Shake well before using.

What’s the difference between rocket and arugula?

They are the same leafy green—“rocket” is the UK name, while “arugula” is the US term.

Can I substitute the pine nuts?

Yes! Try toasted walnuts, almonds, or sunflower seeds for different textures.

How do I make this salad more filling?

Add grilled chicken, shrimp, chickpeas, or a boiled egg to turn it into a full meal.

Final Words

This Gordon Ramsay Rocket Salad Recipe proves that simple ingredients can deliver big flavor. With its peppery greens, nutty crunch, and zesty vinaigrette, it’s a salad that feels fresh, elegant, and effortlessly delicious.

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