Frank Sinatra will forever be associated with New York City, largely due to his recording of “New York, New York,” which was originally written for Martin Scorsese’s film of the same name in 1977. Ol’ Blue Eyes, as he was known, spent a lot of time in the Big Apple over his decades-long career. He loved dining at the iconic Patsy’s Italian Restaurant, often dropping in whenever he was in town for the clams Posillipo, crispy veal Milanese, and one of his favorite starters — a very simple arugula salad.
At Patsy’s, founder Pasquale “Patsy” Scognamillo would prepare Sinatra’s salads by tossing fresh arugula greens with olive oil, red wine vinegar, and some basil. Although it came together with minimal ingredients, this arugula salad was a powerhouse of flavor. Arugula is a bitter, almost peppery green that tastes wonderful with fruity olive oil and a potent acid like red wine vinegar, and the basil adds freshness and even a little sweetness. This salad would have tasted marvelously fresh next to the fried veal dish Sinatra loved so much. According to the menu on Patsy’s website, the arugula salad doesn’t seem to be a current option for diners. However, the restaurant hosts an annual celebration for Sinatra’s birthday on December 12 and serves the legendary crooner’s favorite dishes, which could logically include arugula salad.
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Arugula salad can be simple or elaborate
Arugula salad in a bowl with parmesan cheese and pine nuts – Vaaseenaa/Getty Images
Arugula salad is a traditional Italian dish, known as insalata di rucola. Similar to Patsy’s, it is dressed and garnished minimally in Italy, often with just olive oil, lemon juice, and shavings of real parmesan cheese. These elements help to bring out the unique flavor of the greens without overpowering it. You might even see lightly dressed arugula as a common Italian pizza topping or as the base for beef carpaccio. Tomatoes and toasted pine nuts are other frequent additions to the salad.
With arugula salad, you don’t necessarily have to keep things so simple, the way Frank Sinatra liked his at Patsy’s. It tastes great with various fruits, roasted vegetables, nuts, and cheeses. Arugula with walnuts, apples, roasted butternut squash, and blue cheese is a filling salad for fall and hearty enough to be a meal in and of itself. Tangy goat cheese, beets, and caramelized shallots is another idea. In summer, consider peaches or berries like raspberries and strawberries, then add burrata cheese and toasted almonds.
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