Arugula is an annual native to North Africa and Southern Europe. At maturity leaves are oval shaped, six to nine inches long, and display distinctive lobes, shown in photo at left. Younger, or baby arugula, is best used in salads; for a spicier dish, use more mature leaves.
Arugula
(Eruca sativa)
Arugula is an annual native to the Mediterranean region. Popular in French and Italian cooking, American foodies are increasingly enjoying its distinct spicy, peppery flavor. Arugula’s bold taste may be tamed by mixing with other greens, especially when used in salads. If you’re looking for a zesty alternative to spinach as a salad green, think Arugula!
- Use arugula to top your favorite pizza.
- Steam it like spinach for a spicy alternative.
- Use in pesto as a substitute for basil.