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Photo: Helen Norman
Arugula is a delicate, leafy green with many monikers around the world. Known as rocket in England, roquette in France and rucola (or ruchetta or rughetta) in Italy, arugula is used in many cuisines and dishes. Read on to learn more about the leafy green, including what arugula tastes like and ways to prepare it.
What Is Arugula?
Arugula is a leafy green, part of the cabbage and mustard green family. The leaves are a rich green and feature notches up and down both sides. Depending on the variety, the notches may be pointy or have a full, round end. Wild arugula has a narrower leaf.
The leafy green is available year-round, but peaks in the spring and fall. Arugula is at its best when the leaves are young and tender. As the temperature warms, the leaves get bigger and the flavor is more intense. You can find arugula in bunches with the stems attached, as well as prewashed in bags or containers.
What Does Arugula Taste Like?
Ways to Use Arugula
Arugula is typically eaten raw, similarly to other leafy greens like lettuce or spinach. It’s often used in salads, likeCitrus-Arugula SaladorCantaloupe, Arugula & Goat Cheese Salad, but there are plenty of other ways to enjoy it. Try arugula as a topping to pizza likeProsciutto Pizza with Corn & Arugula. Arugula can also be used ina grain bowlor blended to create a pesto. The spicy bite of arugula balances many flavors, from the sweetness of figs to the sharpness of goat cheese. Its pungency also pairs well with the acidity in vinegar and citrus.
Can You Cook Arugula?
Yes, you can cook arugula! When warmed, arugula’s character changes slightly as it wilts and the snappy flavor slightly softens. TrySautéed Arugulafor a quick and easy side dish. Or, toss arugula into pasta so it slightly wilts, likeSpaghetti with Arugula & Clam Sauce. Arugula can also be usedin a sandwichor as part ofa filling for stuffed steak.
Whether it’s enjoyed raw or wilted, arugula adds a peppery note to any dish. For more on arugula, learnhow to store arugulato make the most of the leafy green.
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