Arugula Recipes: Delicious Ways to Cook This Flavorful Green

I've got a confession: I'm completely smitten with arugula. It's that peppery kick, that vibrant green hue, and the way it just elevates any dish that does it for me. Lately, I've been obsessed with exploring all the ways to cook with this little green powerhouse, and let me tell you, there are a ton of delicious possibilities beyond the classic arugula salad. I'm talking about unleashing its flavour potential in all sorts of unexpected and exciting dishes.

(Part 1) The Arugula Love Story: A Tale of Taste and Discovery

My arugula journey began, oddly enough, with a pizza. I still remember it vividly – a thin-crust pizza topped with a generous amount of arugula tossed in a tangy lemon dressing and sprinkled with Parmesan cheese. The peppery bite of the arugula cut through the richness of the cheese and dough, creating a delightful symphony of flavour. From that moment, I was hooked!

Since then, I've been experimenting with arugula in all sorts of ways. I've incorporated it into pasta sauces, thrown it into soups and stews, even made a killer arugula pesto. The possibilities are truly endless. But it's not just about flavour; it's about that beautiful, vibrant green that adds a touch of freshness and vibrancy to any plate.

Arugula: A nutritional powerhouse in Disguise

Now, I'm not a health guru, but I have to say, arugula is a nutritional champion. Packed with vitamins A, C, and K, along with antioxidants, it's a fantastic addition to your diet. It's also low in calories and high in fibre, which is always a bonus, right?

(Part 2) Arugula Salad: A Classic With a Modern Twist

Let's start with the basics: a good arugula salad. But hold on, I'm not talking about your average, lettuce-based salad with a few arugula leaves thrown in. No, I'm talking about a salad where arugula takes centre stage. And the best part? You can keep it simple or get as creative as you like!

The Essential Arugula Salad: Simplicity at its Finest

Here's my go-to arugula salad, the one I always return to:

1. Toss some arugula with a simple vinaigrette. A squeeze of lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper – that's all you really need for a vibrant dressing.
2. Add some grated Parmesan cheese. It brings a salty, nutty flavour that complements the arugula perfectly.
3. Top with toasted pine nuts or walnuts. They add a delicious crunch and a touch of earthy flavour.

That's it! Simple, fresh, and oh-so-delicious.

Adding Some Pizzazz: Elevating the Arugula Salad

But if you're feeling adventurous, there are endless ways to add some pizzazz to your arugula salad:

1. Add some fruit. Strawberries, pears, or even slices of orange add a touch of sweetness and acidity that dances beautifully with the peppery arugula.
2. Incorporate some roasted vegetables. Roasted peppers, asparagus, or even butternut squash add a nice depth of flavour and texture, creating a delightful contrast.
3. Top with a poached egg or two. This adds a touch of richness and protein, turning your salad into a satisfying meal.

(Part 3) Arugula Beyond the Salad: Exploring New Flavour Frontiers

Okay, so arugula salads are a classic for a reason, but let's get creative! This little green is so versatile, it can be incorporated into all sorts of dishes.

Arugula in pasta dishes: A Symphony of Flavour

Arugula adds a vibrant touch to pasta dishes, bringing a fresh perspective to traditional recipes. Here are a few ideas to get your creative juices flowing:

1. Arugula pesto. Blend arugula with garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. It's a delicious alternative to traditional basil pesto, offering a more peppery and earthy flavour profile.
2. Arugula and garlic pasta. Saute garlic with olive oil, add some chopped arugula, and toss with your favourite pasta. This simple dish is bursting with flavour and incredibly easy to make.
3. Arugula and tomato pasta. Combine arugula with cherry tomatoes, garlic, and a touch of balsamic vinegar for a simple and flavorful pasta dish.

Arugula in Soup and Stews: Adding Freshness and Depth

Don't be afraid to add arugula to soups and stews! It adds a fresh, peppery bite that really elevates the flavour.

1. Tomato soup. Add a handful of arugula to your favourite tomato soup in the last few minutes of cooking. This creates a vibrant, earthy layer that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the tomatoes.
2. Minestrone. Arugula adds a welcome touch of green and flavour to a hearty minestrone soup, balancing the richness of the broth and vegetables.
3. Potato and leek soup. A handful of arugula adds a peppery kick to a creamy potato and leek soup, adding a surprising dimension of flavour.

(Part 4) Arugula in Sandwiches and Wraps: A Touch of Freshness

Arugula isn't just for salads and pasta! It adds a nice touch to sandwiches and wraps, too, bringing a welcome burst of freshness and flavour to your midday meal.

The Arugula Sandwich: A Simple but Satisfying Treat

My favourite arugula sandwich is simple but oh-so-good. I start with a crusty baguette, spread it with a creamy goat cheese, add some thinly sliced roasted vegetables (like bell peppers, onions, and eggplant), and top it with arugula. It's a delicious and satisfying lunch or light dinner.

Arugula Wraps: Light and Refreshing

Arugula is also great in wraps. I love making a simple wrap with arugula, hummus, roasted vegetables, and a sprinkle of feta cheese. It's light, refreshing, and perfect for a quick and healthy meal.

(Part 5) Arugula in Pizza and Other Baked Goods: Adding an Unexpected Twist

Don't be afraid to get creative with arugula. It can be added to all sorts of baked goods, too!

Pizza with Arugula: A Classic for a Reason

As I mentioned earlier, my love affair with arugula began with pizza. Adding arugula to pizza in the last minute of cooking is a fantastic way to add a fresh, peppery bite. I like to use a simple tomato sauce base with mozzarella cheese and top it with arugula, a drizzle of olive oil, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. It's a classic for a reason.

Arugula in Other Baked Goods: Expanding the Horizons

You can also add arugula to other baked goods like quiches, tarts, and even bread. A few leaves of arugula added to the dough will give your bread a unique flavour and aroma.

(Part 6) Arugula in Cocktails: A Surprisingly Delicious Pairing

Okay, I know this might sound a little crazy, but hear me out! Arugula can actually be a surprisingly delicious addition to cocktails.

The Arugula Margarita: A Refreshing Twist

For a refreshing, slightly spicy twist on the classic margarita, try muddling arugula leaves with tequila, lime juice, and agave nectar. The arugula adds a subtle peppery note that complements the citrusy flavour of the margarita, creating a surprisingly harmonious blend.

Arugula Gin Fizz: A Unique and Delectable Combination

If you prefer gin, try a gin fizz with a hint of arugula. Muddle some arugula leaves with gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup, then shake it up with ice and strain into a chilled glass. It's a surprisingly delicious combination, offering a unique and invigorating flavour experience.

(Part 7) Storing and Using Arugula: Keeping It Fresh and Crisp

Now, let's talk about storing and using arugula. The key is to keep it fresh and crisp, ensuring that its flavour shines.

Storing Arugula: Preserving the Freshness

Store arugula in a plastic bag in the refrigerator. You can also store it in a glass jar with a damp paper towel to help keep it moist.

Using Arugula: Maximising the Flavour

Arugula is best used fresh. You can wash it and store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. When using arugula, try to use it as soon as possible after washing to ensure maximum flavour and freshness.

It's best to wash arugula just before using it. You can do so by rinsing it under cold water and then gently patting it dry with a paper towel.

(Part 8) Growing Your Own Arugula: A culinary adventure in Your Garden

If you have a green thumb, you can easily grow your own arugula. It's a relatively easy-to-grow plant and can be grown in containers or in a garden.

Tips for Growing Arugula: A Guide to Success

1. Choose a sunny location. Arugula needs at least six hours of sunlight a day to thrive.
2. Plant seeds in well-drained soil. Arugula seeds should be planted about 1/2 inch deep and spaced about 6 inches apart.
3. Keep the soil moist. Arugula needs consistent moisture to thrive, so ensure the soil doesn't dry out completely.
4. Harvest your arugula when the leaves are about 4 inches tall. You can harvest the leaves multiple times from the same plant, enjoying a continuous supply of fresh arugula.

(Part 9) Arugula Recipes to Try: A culinary journey Begins Here

Here are a few arugula recipes to get you started on your own arugula adventures.

1. Arugula and Strawberry Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette: A Classic with a Twist

This is a classic combination that's both refreshing and delicious, showcasing the delightful interplay of sweet and peppery flavours.

Ingredients

1. 1 bag arugula
2. 1 pint strawberries, hulled and sliced
3. 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
4. 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts
5. Balsamic Vinaigrette (recipe below)

Balsamic Vinaigrette

1. 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
2. 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
3. 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
4. 1 teaspoon honey
5. Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. To make the vinaigrette, whisk together all ingredients in a small bowl until emulsified.
2. In a large bowl, combine the arugula, strawberries, goat cheese, and pine nuts.
3. Pour the vinaigrette over the salad and toss to coat.
4. Serve immediately, enjoying the fresh and vibrant flavours.

2. Arugula Pesto Pasta: A Flavourful and Easy Weeknight Meal

This is a flavourful and easy pasta dish that's perfect for a weeknight meal, offering a burst of flavour and freshness in a simple package.

Ingredients

1. 1 bag arugula
2. 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
3. 1/4 cup pine nuts
4. 2 cloves garlic, minced
5. 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
6. 1 pound pasta
7. Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta according to package directions.
2. While the pasta is cooking, prepare the pesto. In a food processor, combine the arugula, Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, garlic, and olive oil. Pulse until smooth, creating a vibrant green pesto.
3. Drain the pasta and toss with the pesto. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately, enjoying the delicious combination of flavours.

3. Arugula and Roasted Vegetable Pizza: A Party Favourite

This is a delicious and easy pizza that's perfect for a party or a casual weeknight dinner, bringing together a symphony of flavours and textures.

Ingredients

1. 1 pizza dough
2. 1/2 cup tomato sauce
3. 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
4. 1 cup roasted vegetables (such as bell peppers, onions, and eggplant)
5. 1 bag arugula
6. 1/4 cup olive oil
7. Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 450 degrees F.
2. Spread the tomato sauce over the pizza dough, creating a base for the delicious toppings.
3. Top with the mozzarella cheese and roasted vegetables, adding a layer of flavour and texture.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted, creating a beautifully baked pizza.
5. Remove the pizza from the oven and top with the arugula, adding a burst of freshness and peppery flavour.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste, finishing the pizza with a touch of elegance.
7. Serve immediately, enjoying the hot and delicious pizza with its medley of flavours and textures.

(Part 10) FAQs: Answers to Your Arugula Questions

So, you're ready to dive into the world of arugula? I bet you have some questions. Here are some common ones I get, along with my honest answers.

1. What does arugula taste like?

Arugula has a unique peppery, slightly bitter flavour. Some people describe it as tasting like a cross between spinach and mustard greens. It's definitely a bold flavour that can be overpowering if used in excess.

2. How do I know if arugula is fresh?

Look for arugula with bright green, vibrant leaves that are crisp and free of any wilting or yellowing. It should also smell fresh and earthy, not wilted or musty.

3. Can I freeze arugula?

While you can technically freeze arugula, it's not ideal. Freezing can make the leaves lose their texture and flavour. It's best to use fresh arugula for the best flavour.

4. What other greens can I substitute for arugula?

If you're not a fan of the peppery bite of arugula, you can substitute it with other leafy greens like spinach, kale, or baby lettuce. However, these substitutions won't have the same unique flavour profile.

5. Where can I buy arugula?

Arugula is widely available at most grocery stores, especially in the produce section. You can also find it at farmers markets, often in peak season.

There you have it! Arugula is a versatile and flavourful green that can be enjoyed in countless ways. So, get out there, experiment, and embrace the peppery goodness of this little green powerhouse! You won't regret it.