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Vegetables

What is arugula?

Arugula, also known as rocket or rucola, is a leafy green vegetable that is commonly used in salads and sandwiches. It has a distinct, slightly spicy flavor and is a rich source of vitamins and minerals.

How is arugula used in cooking?

Arugula is commonly used as a salad green, often mixed with other greens and tossed with a vinaigrette. It can also be used as a garnish on sandwiches and pizzas, or as a bed for grilled meats and fish. The leaves can be added to pasta dishes, risotto, and soups for a burst of flavor. Arugula can also be eaten cooked, it can be sautéed, added to omelettes, frittatas, or wilted and added to sandwiches and burgers. The possibilities are endless.

What are some good dishes that use arugula?

Here are a few dishes that use arugula as a key ingredient:

  • Arugula Salad: A simple salad made with arugula leaves, cherry tomatoes, shaved parmesan cheese, and a lemon vinaigrette.
  • Arugula Pesto Pasta: A pasta dish made with arugula leaves, pine nuts, parmesan cheese, and olive oil.
  • Grilled Arugula and Peach Salad: A salad made with grilled peaches, arugula, and feta cheese, and dressed with a balsamic vinaigrette.
  • Arugula and Prosciutto Pizza: A pizza topped with mozzarella cheese, prosciutto, and a handful of arugula leaves, which can be added after the pizza is cooked.
  • Arugula and Ricotta Stuffed Chicken: A dish where chicken breast is stuffed with a mixture of arugula, ricotta cheese, and lemon zest, then baked.
  • Arugula and Avocado Toast: A simple but delicious dish of toasted bread topped with mashed avocado, arugula, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
  • Arugula and Feta Omelette: A omelette with arugula and feta cheese, it’s a simple and healthy breakfast dish.

Is arugula known by any other names?

Arugula is also known by several other names, including:

  • Rocket: This is the most common alternative name for arugula, particularly in the UK and Australia.
  • Rucola: This is the Italian name for arugula, which is often used in Italian cuisine.
  • Roquette: This is the French name for arugula.
  • Garden rocket: This name is used to distinguish it from wild rocket which is another species.
  • Eruca sativa: This is the botanical name for arugula.
  • Salad rocket: This name is used to reflect its most common use in salads.
  • Italian cress: This name is used because of its popularity in Italian cuisine.
  • Rauke: This is the German name for arugula.
  • Rugula: This is misspelling of the name arugula.
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