Arugula, also known as rocket, is a peppery green that adds a vibrant bite to any dish. But what happens when you find yourself with an abundance of it? Perhaps your garden has exploded with growth, or you stumbled upon a great deal at the farmers market. Fear not! This article will guide you through a plethora of creative and delicious ways to use up that surplus of arugula, well beyond the typical salad.
Arugula’s Flavor Profile and Nutritional Benefits
Before we dive into recipes, let’s understand what makes arugula so special. Arugula has a distinct peppery and slightly bitter flavor that intensifies as the plant matures. This peppery kick is what makes it a fantastic addition to both raw and cooked dishes.
Arugula isn’t just tasty; it’s packed with nutrients. It’s an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folate and calcium. It’s also low in calories and high in fiber, making it a healthy and guilt-free ingredient to incorporate into your diet. Consider arugula a nutritional powerhouse disguised as a leafy green.
Incorporating Arugula into Main Courses
Arugula is more versatile than you might think. It can be a star ingredient in various main courses, adding a burst of flavor and freshness.
Arugula Pesto and Pasta Dishes
Move over, basil! Arugula pesto is a delightful twist on the classic. Its peppery notes add a unique complexity that complements pasta beautifully.
To make arugula pesto, simply combine arugula, pine nuts (or walnuts for a more affordable alternative), garlic, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, and a pinch of salt in a food processor. Blend until smooth, adding more olive oil if needed to reach your desired consistency. Arugula pesto is a fantastic way to preserve a large quantity of the green and enjoy it over time.
Toss the pesto with your favorite pasta shape. Penne, spaghetti, or farfalle all work well. You can also add grilled chicken, shrimp, or vegetables for a more substantial meal. Arugula pesto pasta is a quick, easy, and flavorful weeknight dinner option.
Arugula as a Pizza Topping
Forget boring pepperoni; arugula can elevate your pizza game. After baking your pizza, add a generous handful of fresh arugula on top. The heat of the pizza will slightly wilt the arugula, releasing its peppery aroma.
Arugula pairs particularly well with pizzas that have a white sauce base, such as a ricotta or béchamel sauce. It also complements toppings like prosciutto, figs, and goat cheese. The combination of creamy cheese, salty prosciutto, sweet figs, and peppery arugula is a culinary masterpiece.
Arugula in Sandwiches and Wraps
Arugula is a fantastic addition to sandwiches and wraps, adding both flavor and texture. Use it in place of lettuce or spinach for a peppery kick.
Try adding arugula to a turkey and avocado sandwich, a roast beef wrap, or a grilled chicken panini. It also works well in vegetarian sandwiches with hummus, roasted vegetables, and feta cheese. Arugula adds a sophisticated touch to any sandwich or wrap.
Delicious Side Dishes with Arugula
Arugula can be easily incorporated into a variety of side dishes to add a pop of flavor and freshness.
Arugula Salad Variations
While a simple arugula salad is always a good option, there are endless ways to customize it. Experiment with different vinaigrettes, cheeses, nuts, and fruits to create unique and flavorful combinations.
Try a salad with arugula, toasted almonds, goat cheese, and a balsamic vinaigrette. Or, combine arugula with strawberries, blueberries, feta cheese, and a lemon poppy seed dressing. The possibilities are endless when it comes to arugula salads.
Arugula with Roasted Vegetables
Toss roasted vegetables with fresh arugula for a simple yet elegant side dish. The heat of the vegetables will slightly wilt the arugula, enhancing its flavor.
Roasted root vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes, and parsnips pair particularly well with arugula. You can also use roasted Brussels sprouts, broccoli, or cauliflower. The combination of sweet roasted vegetables and peppery arugula is a delightful contrast of flavors.
Arugula and Bean Salads
Arugula adds a peppery bite to bean salads, making them more flavorful and interesting. Combine arugula with cooked beans, such as cannellini beans, chickpeas, or black beans, and dress with a simple vinaigrette.
Add chopped vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onion for extra texture and flavor. You can also add crumbled feta cheese or goat cheese for a creamy element. Arugula and bean salads are a healthy and satisfying side dish option.
Creative Arugula Applications
Beyond main courses and side dishes, there are even more creative ways to use up your arugula surplus.
Arugula in Smoothies and Juices
Yes, you can add arugula to smoothies and juices! While it might seem unusual, a small handful of arugula can add a subtle peppery flavor and a boost of nutrients to your favorite blends.
Pair arugula with fruits like apples, pears, or bananas to balance out its bitterness. You can also add other greens like spinach or kale for an extra dose of vitamins. Arugula smoothies and juices are a great way to sneak in extra vegetables into your diet.
Arugula as a Garnish
Arugula makes a beautiful and flavorful garnish for a variety of dishes. Sprinkle it over soups, stews, pasta dishes, or grilled meats for a pop of color and a peppery kick.
It’s particularly effective as a garnish for dishes that are rich or creamy, as its peppery flavor helps to cut through the richness and balance the flavors. Arugula is a simple yet elegant way to elevate the presentation of any dish.
Arugula in Frittatas and Quiches
Arugula adds a peppery bite to frittatas and quiches, making them more flavorful and interesting. Simply chop the arugula and add it to the egg mixture before baking.
It pairs well with other vegetables like mushrooms, onions, and peppers. You can also add cheese like Gruyere, Parmesan, or goat cheese. Arugula frittatas and quiches are a delicious and versatile brunch or lunch option.
Preserving Your Arugula Surplus
If you have more arugula than you can possibly use in the short term, there are several ways to preserve it for later use.
Freezing Arugula
While freezing arugula can alter its texture, it’s still a good option for preserving it for use in cooked dishes like soups, stews, and sauces.
To freeze arugula, wash it thoroughly and blanch it in boiling water for a minute or two. Then, transfer it to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Drain the arugula well and squeeze out any excess water. Pack it into freezer bags or containers and freeze for up to six months. Freezing arugula is a convenient way to have it on hand for future use.
Making Arugula Pesto for Long-Term Storage
As mentioned earlier, arugula pesto is a fantastic way to preserve a large quantity of arugula. The pesto can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week or in the freezer for up to three months.
To freeze arugula pesto, divide it into ice cube trays and freeze until solid. Then, transfer the pesto cubes to freezer bags or containers. This makes it easy to thaw out small portions of pesto as needed. Freezing arugula pesto in ice cube trays is a convenient way to have it on hand for adding to pasta, soups, or sauces.
Arugula Recipe Ideas
Here are a few specific recipe ideas to get you started using up your arugula:
- Arugula and Prosciutto Pizza: Top a pizza with a white sauce, mozzarella cheese, prosciutto, and fresh arugula after baking.
- Arugula Pesto Pasta with Shrimp: Toss pasta with arugula pesto and sautéed shrimp.
- Arugula and Roasted Beet Salad: Combine arugula with roasted beets, goat cheese, walnuts, and a balsamic vinaigrette.
- Arugula and White Bean Soup: Add arugula to a creamy white bean soup just before serving.
- Arugula and Smoked Salmon Frittata: Add arugula and smoked salmon to an egg mixture and bake into a frittata.
- Grilled Steak with Arugula Salad: Top a grilled steak with a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette.
Conclusion
Arugula is a versatile and flavorful green that can be used in a wide variety of dishes. Whether you have a garden overflowing with arugula or simply want to try something new, these ideas will help you use up that surplus and enjoy the peppery goodness of arugula in all its glory. Don’t let that arugula go to waste – get creative and start cooking!
What are some unique ways to use arugula besides in a salad?
Arugula’s peppery bite makes it a versatile ingredient beyond simple salads. You can incorporate it into pesto, using it as a base alone or blending it with basil for a more complex flavor. It can also be added to sauces, like a vibrant arugula cream sauce for pasta or fish, enhancing the dish with its distinct taste and a beautiful green hue.
Another exciting application is in cooked dishes. Consider adding arugula to scrambled eggs or omelets for a morning boost. You can also wilt it into soups or stews during the last few minutes of cooking, adding a fresh and slightly spicy element that brightens the overall flavor profile. These methods soften the intensity of the arugula, making it more palatable for those who find the raw flavor too strong.
How can I make arugula pesto and what can I use it for?
To make arugula pesto, combine fresh arugula, pine nuts (or walnuts for a budget-friendly option), garlic, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a food processor. Pulse until you reach a smooth, yet slightly textured consistency. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed; you might want a touch of lemon juice for added brightness.
Arugula pesto isn’t just for pasta. Use it as a spread for sandwiches or wraps, or as a topping for grilled chicken, fish, or vegetables. It also makes a fantastic dip for crusty bread or a flavorful addition to homemade pizza. Its versatility makes it a staple condiment to elevate various dishes with a peppery zest.
Can arugula be used in cooked dishes without losing its flavor?
While cooking arugula can mellow its peppery flavor, it still retains a unique taste that complements many dishes. The key is to avoid overcooking it. Adding arugula towards the end of the cooking process, such as in the final few minutes of a soup or stir-fry, helps preserve its flavor and texture.
Another good approach is to blanch the arugula briefly before adding it to a dish. This softens the leaves and reduces the intensity of the flavor, making it more approachable while still contributing a subtle peppery note. This method is particularly useful when incorporating arugula into dishes with delicate flavors.
What are some creative ways to add arugula to breakfast?
One simple and nutritious way to incorporate arugula into your breakfast is by adding it to scrambled eggs or omelets. Simply chop the arugula and stir it in during the last minute of cooking, allowing it to wilt slightly. This adds a peppery kick and a boost of vitamins to your morning meal.
Another option is to use arugula as a base for a breakfast salad. Top it with a poached or fried egg, avocado slices, cherry tomatoes, and a drizzle of olive oil or balsamic glaze. The bitterness of the arugula pairs well with the richness of the egg and avocado, creating a balanced and satisfying breakfast.
How do I store arugula properly to keep it fresh for longer?
The best way to store arugula is to wash it thoroughly and dry it completely using a salad spinner or by patting it dry with paper towels. Excess moisture can lead to spoilage, so ensuring it’s dry is crucial for extending its shelf life.
Once dried, store the arugula in a loosely sealed plastic bag or container lined with a paper towel. The paper towel will absorb any remaining moisture, keeping the arugula crisp and fresh for up to a week. Keep the container in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator.
What are some flavor pairings that work well with arugula?
Arugula’s peppery flavor pairs exceptionally well with creamy cheeses such as goat cheese, ricotta, and burrata. The richness of the cheese balances the arugula’s bitterness, creating a harmonious combination. These pairings are excellent in salads, pizzas, or even simple appetizers.
Other flavors that complement arugula include lemon, balsamic vinegar, nuts (especially pine nuts and walnuts), and fruits like strawberries and pears. The acidity of lemon and balsamic vinegar cuts through the arugula’s bitterness, while nuts add texture and richness. Fruits provide a sweet contrast that enhances the overall flavor profile.
Can arugula be frozen for later use?
While freezing arugula will alter its texture, making it less suitable for fresh salads, it can still be a practical way to preserve it for cooked dishes. The key is to blanch the arugula briefly in boiling water for about 2 minutes, then immediately transfer it to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. This helps preserve its color and flavor.
Once blanched and cooled, squeeze out any excess water and store the arugula in freezer-safe bags or containers. Frozen arugula is best used in soups, sauces, pestos, or cooked dishes where the change in texture is less noticeable. Remember to use it within a few months for optimal flavor.