Arugula is a really versatile ingredient that’s used in many dishes. Yet, it is a little surprising how some people are intimidated by it and rarely use it at home. A huge reason for this may be because people know very little about this ingredient. To help remedy this, we’ve put together a brief discussion on things that you need to know about arugula. If this is something you’re interested in, read on as we talk about everything you need to know about arugula.
What Is Arugula?
Arugula or rocket is a cruciferous vegetable. This makes it similar to other vegetables in the cruciferous family, such as broccoli, kale, and Brussel sprouts. It actually became a trendy ingredient due to its multitude of health benefits.
Arugula contains high levels of antioxidants, fiber, and phytochemicals. Cruciferous vegetables also have protective effects on the heart. In fact, a study from 2018 highlights how a diet that’s high in cruciferous vegetables could reduce the plaque build-up in the arteries. To add to this, eating these vegetables has also been linked to reduced total cancer risk along with a reduction in all-cause mortality.
What Does Arugula Taste Like?
Perhaps the most identifiable characteristic of arugula is its peppery taste. Now, we understand that “peppery” may still be a little vague for some people. To help simplify things, take a whiff of some black pepper, and you’ll have a better idea of what this leafy vegetable tastes like because it tastes the way black pepper smells.
Arugula gets a bad rap for its texture when eaten in salads. However, this isn’t entirely the vegetable’s fault as the important thing about serving arugula is to serve it fresh. Fresh arugula is more likely to stay crisp and hold up to the dressing, and it also gives you the best flavor as the pepper flavor will be slightly muted.
How Do You Use Arugula in Cooking?
Did you know that arugula is a versatile ingredient? There are just so many ways you can use it, making it perfect for home cooks who may not have access to professional cooking equipment. However, this doesn’t mean that the dishes you can make with it are too simplistic. In fact, proper use of arugula can transform your home-cooked meals and bring the in-home chef experience to your homes.
Before we get onto some recommendations on how to use arugula in your cooking, let’s first talk about how you should be preparing this vegetable. Since it is commonly eaten uncooked, you’ll want to make sure that you wash it thoroughly. However, if the packaging states that it is pre-washed, we recommend refraining from washing it again. At the same time, don’t go overboard with this, as a quick rinse should be enough!
Now, here is a simple recipe that you can make with little to no effort. A rocket salad is a great way to incorporate veggies into your daily meals. This is great because it literally only takes a couple of minutes to put together and is a perfect side dish for most hearty proteins. All you have to do is to combine arugula, tomatoes, and pine nuts in a large plastic bowl. Then, add a little olive oil, vinegar, and Parmesan cheese to add more flavor to this salad. Lastly, season and toss the salad and enjoy the meal!
Conclusion
We hope that this information has helped you understand this leafy vegetable. Arugula is a great ingredient that you should definitely be using more, as it tastes great and is incredibly good for you. Remember, don’t be afraid to try something new and to keep an open mind in the kitchen!
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