What Does it Taste Like?

Arugula has a unique and bold flavor that can vary depending on the type and variety. There are two main types of arugula: regular and wild. Regular arugula has larger and rounder leaves, while wild arugula has smaller and more serrated leaves. Regular arugula tends to be more mild and sweet, while wild arugula tends to be more bitter and spicy. There are also different varieties of arugula, such as baby arugula, which is harvested when the leaves are still young and tender. Baby arugula has a more delicate and mild flavor than mature arugula2. Arugula has a crisp and juicy texture that adds crunch and freshness to any dish.

Varieties we grow

Balboa

This variety has a distinctive flavor that is both peppery and nutty, adding a zest to any dish. You can enjoy its crunchy leaves raw in salads, or cook them lightly in soups, pastas, or pizzas.

Why Should I Eat It?

Here are some of the main benefits of arugula:

It is low in calories and high in water, which can help you stay hydrated and feel full. One cup of arugula has only 5 calories and 92% water.
It is rich in vitamin K, which is essential for blood clotting, bone health, and antioxidant activity. One cup of arugula provides 22% of the Daily Value (DV) for vitamin K.
It is a good source of vitamin A, especially green varieties, which contain beta-carotene, a precursor of vitamin A. Vitamin A is important for vision, immunity, and skin health. One cup of arugula provides 10% of the DV for vitamin A.
It is a good source of folate, which is also known as vitamin B9. Folate is essential for DNA synthesis, cell division, and brain function. It is especially important for pregnant women, as it can prevent neural tube defects in the developing fetus. One cup of arugula provides 6% of the DV for folate.

Arugula

May - December

If you are looking for a way to add some spice, flavor, and nutrition to your meals, look no further than arugula. This leafy green belongs to the cruciferous family, along with broccoli, kale, and cabbage. It has a distinctive peppery, spicy, and slightly nutty flavor that can make any dish more interesting. Arugula is also known as rocket, roquette, or rucola, and is native to the Mediterranean region.

Recommended Storage

Refrigerate

How Do I Store It?

Short Term

Arugula can last for several days to weeks, depending on how you store it. Here are some tips on how to store arugula:

Wash and dry the arugula thoroughly before storing it. You can use a salad spinner or a paper towel to remove excess moisture. Moisture can cause the arugula to wilt and rot faster.
Wrap the arugula in a paper towel or a cloth and place it in a plastic bag or an airtight container. The paper towel or cloth will absorb any residual moisture and prevent the arugula from getting soggy.
Store the arugula in the refrigerator, preferably in the crisper drawer. The ideal temperature for storing arugula is between 32°F and 40°F. The ideal humidity for storing arugula is between 95% and 100%.
Check the arugula regularly and discard any wilted, brown, or slimy leaves. You can also trim off any damaged or discolored parts of the arugula before using it.

Long Term

Unfortunately, this tender green doesn't hold up in any of the typical long-term storage methods. Its best to eat is within a few days.

How Do I Cook It?

Raw: This is the most common way to consume arugula. It makes a unique and flavorful addition to salads, sandwiches, or on top of a pizza after it comes out of the oven.
Grilling: Grilling arugula can add a smoky and charred flavor and texture to the arugula. Grilled arugula can be used in salads, sandwiches, or as a side dish. To grill arugula, toss the leaves with some oil and seasonings, and grill over high heat for a few minutes, turning once, until slightly wilted and charred.
Sautéing: Sautéing arugula can create a quick and easy stir-fry or side dish. Sautéed arugula has a tender and savory flavor and texture. To sauté arugula, heat some oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the arugula and your choice of seasonings, such as garlic, onion, soy sauce, vinegar, etc. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the arugula is soft and wilted.
Roasting: Roasting arugula can create a crispy and nutty snack or topping. Roasted arugula has a crunchy and slightly bitter flavor and texture. To roast arugula, spread the leaves on a baking sheet and drizzle with some oil and salt. Roast in the oven at 375°F for about 10 minutes, or until the leaves are crisp and browned.

Recommended Recipes

Romesco Toast with Arugula and Egg

What Goes Well With It?

Arugula has a spicy and peppery flavor that can pair well with many other ingredients. Here are some of the best flavor pairings for arugula, including cheese, fruit, nut, and herb pairings:

Cheese: Cheese and arugula are a classic combination that can create a delicious contrast of creamy and spicy textures. Some of the best cheeses to pair with arugula are Parmesan, goat cheese, feta, blue cheese, and ricotta.
Fruit: Fruit and arugula are a refreshing and healthy combination that can add some sweetness and acidity to the arugula. Some of the best fruits to pair with arugula are lemon, orange, grapefruit, apple, pear, and strawberry.
Nut: Nut and arugula are a crunchy and nutritious combination that can add some protein and healthy fats to the arugula. Some of the best nuts to pair with arugula are almond, walnut, pistachio, pine nut, and pecan.
Herb: Herb and arugula are a fresh and fragrant combination that can add some flavor and aroma to the arugula. Some of the best herbs to pair with arugula are basil, mint, parsley, cilantro, and dill.