Arugula or rocket, is a leafy green vegetable with a distinctive peppery flavor. It belongs to the Brassicaceae family, which includes cruciferous vegetables like kale, broccoli, and cabbage. The leaves of rucola are typically dark green and have a unique shape, featuring deep lobes. The peppery taste of rucola adds a refreshing and zesty element to various dishes, contributing both flavor and nutritional value.
Arugula is commonly enjoyed fresh in salads, it can also be used in cooked dishes: Add fresh arugula to hot, cooked pasta just before serving. Toss it with olive oil, garlic, cherry tomatoes, and Parmesan cheese for a quick and flavorful pasta dish. The heat of the pasta will slightly wilt the arugula. Make a pesto by blending fresh rucola with garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. This pesto can be tossed with hot pasta, spread on sandwiches, or used as a sauce for grilled meats.