Arugula, also known as rocket, is a peppery, flavorful green that has gained popularity in recent years due to its versatility and numerous health benefits. While it’s commonly used in salads, arugula can also be cooked to bring out its unique flavor and texture. In this article, we’ll explore the different ways to cook arugula leaves, including sautéing, roasting, and wilting, as well as provide tips on how to prepare and store this delicious green.
Choosing the Right Arugula
Before we dive into cooking arugula, it’s essential to choose the right type. There are several varieties of arugula, each with its unique flavor and texture. Here are a few popular types:
- Wild Arugula: This type has a more robust, peppery flavor and a coarser texture than other varieties.
- Cultivated Arugula: This type has a milder flavor and a softer texture, making it ideal for salads and cooking.
- Baby Arugula: This type is harvested before it reaches full maturity, resulting in a sweeter, more delicate flavor.
Preparing Arugula for Cooking
Before cooking arugula, it’s essential to prepare it properly. Here are a few steps to follow:
- Rinse the arugula leaves: Rinse the arugula leaves under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris.
- Pat dry the leaves: Use a clean towel or salad spinner to pat the leaves dry. This will help remove excess moisture, which can prevent the arugula from cooking evenly.
- Remove stems and tear leaves: Remove any tough stems and tear the leaves into smaller pieces. This will help the arugula cook more evenly and quickly.
Sautéing Arugula
Sautéing is a quick and easy way to cook arugula. Here’s a simple recipe to get you started:
- Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat.
- Add a clove of minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the arugula leaves and sauté for 2-3 minutes until wilted.
- Season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice.
Tips for Sautéing Arugula
- Use high heat: Sautéing arugula quickly over high heat helps preserve its flavor and texture.
- Don’t overcook: Arugula can quickly become bitter if overcooked. Cook it until it’s just wilted, then remove it from the heat.
- Add aromatics: Adding aromatics like garlic, onion, or shallots can enhance the flavor of the arugula.
Roasting Arugula
Roasting arugula brings out its natural sweetness and adds a depth of flavor. Here’s a simple recipe to get you started:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss the arugula leaves with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
- Roast for 5-7 minutes until the arugula is wilted and slightly caramelized.
Tips for Roasting Arugula
- Use a high temperature: Roasting arugula at a high temperature helps bring out its natural sweetness.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet: Make sure to leave enough space between the arugula leaves to allow for even cooking.
- Add flavorings: Adding flavorings like lemon juice, garlic, or chili flakes can enhance the flavor of the arugula.
Wilting Arugula
Wilting arugula is a simple way to cook it without losing its flavor and texture. Here’s a simple recipe to get you started:
- Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a pan over low heat.
- Add the arugula leaves and cook, stirring occasionally, until wilted.
- Season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice.
Tips for Wilting Arugula
- Use low heat: Wilting arugula over low heat helps preserve its flavor and texture.
- Don’t overcook: Arugula can quickly become bitter if overcooked. Cook it until it’s just wilted, then remove it from the heat.
- Add flavorings: Adding flavorings like garlic, onion, or shallots can enhance the flavor of the arugula.
Storing Arugula
Arugula is a delicate green that requires proper storage to maintain its flavor and texture. Here are a few tips for storing arugula:
- Store in a cool, dry place: Arugula should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
- Keep it dry: Make sure to pat the arugula leaves dry before storing them to prevent moisture from accumulating.
- Use within a few days: Arugula is best used within a few days of purchase. If you won’t be using it within that timeframe, consider freezing it.
Freezing Arugula
Freezing arugula is a great way to preserve its flavor and texture. Here’s a simple way to freeze arugula:
- Blanch the arugula: Blanch the arugula in boiling water for 30 seconds to inactivate its enzymes.
- Shock in an ice bath: Shock the arugula in an ice bath to stop the cooking process.
- Freeze in airtight containers: Freeze the arugula in airtight containers or freezer bags to preserve its flavor and texture.
Conclusion
Cooking arugula leaves can be a simple and delicious way to add flavor and nutrition to your meals. Whether you sauté, roast, or wilt it, arugula is a versatile green that can be used in a variety of dishes. By following the tips and recipes outlined in this article, you’ll be well on your way to becoming an arugula expert. So go ahead, get creative, and start cooking with arugula today!
What is the best way to cook arugula leaves?
The best way to cook arugula leaves is by sautéing them in a pan with some olive oil and garlic. This method allows the leaves to retain their flavor and texture. Simply heat some olive oil in a pan over medium heat, add minced garlic and cook for a minute, then add the arugula leaves and cook until they are wilted.
It’s essential to not overcook the arugula leaves, as they can quickly become bitter and unpalatable. Cooking them for 1-2 minutes is usually enough to bring out their flavor and texture. You can also add some lemon juice or salt to taste, which can help to balance out the bitterness of the leaves.
Can I boil arugula leaves?
Yes, you can boil arugula leaves, but it’s not the recommended method of cooking. Boiling can cause the leaves to lose their flavor and texture, and they can become mushy and unappetizing. However, if you do choose to boil arugula leaves, make sure to do so for a short period, usually 30 seconds to 1 minute.
To boil arugula leaves, simply submerge them in boiling water, then immediately plunge them into an ice bath to stop the cooking process. This method is often used in Asian cuisine, where the leaves are used in soups and salads. However, sautéing or steaming is generally a better way to cook arugula leaves.
How do I steam arugula leaves?
Steaming arugula leaves is a great way to cook them without losing their flavor and texture. To steam arugula leaves, simply place them in a steamer basket over boiling water, cover the pot, and steam for 1-2 minutes. You can also add some garlic or lemon juice to the water for extra flavor.
Steaming is a gentle way to cook arugula leaves, and it helps to preserve their nutrients and flavor. Make sure to not overcook the leaves, as they can quickly become limp and unappetizing. Steaming is a great way to cook arugula leaves if you’re looking for a low-calorie and healthy option.
Can I add arugula leaves to soups and stews?
Yes, you can add arugula leaves to soups and stews, but make sure to do so towards the end of the cooking time. Arugula leaves can quickly become bitter and unpalatable if they are cooked for too long, so it’s best to add them to the pot in the last minute of cooking.
Adding arugula leaves to soups and stews can add a burst of flavor and nutrients to the dish. Simply chop the leaves and add them to the pot, then cook for an additional minute. You can also use arugula leaves as a garnish for soups and stews, which can add a pop of color and flavor to the dish.
How do I choose the best arugula leaves for cooking?
When choosing arugula leaves for cooking, look for leaves that are fresh and have a peppery flavor. Avoid leaves that are wilted or have brown spots, as they can be bitter and unpalatable. You can also choose baby arugula leaves, which are milder in flavor and have a more delicate texture.
Arugula leaves come in different varieties, including wild arugula and cultivated arugula. Wild arugula has a more peppery flavor, while cultivated arugula is milder in flavor. Choose the variety that suits your taste preferences and cooking needs.
Can I use frozen arugula leaves for cooking?
Yes, you can use frozen arugula leaves for cooking, but they may not have the same flavor and texture as fresh leaves. Frozen arugula leaves are best used in cooked dishes, such as soups and stews, where the texture and flavor of the leaves are not as important.
To use frozen arugula leaves, simply thaw them first and then use them in your recipe. You can also add frozen arugula leaves directly to soups and stews, where they will thaw and cook quickly. However, frozen arugula leaves may not be suitable for salads and other dishes where the texture and flavor of the leaves are important.
How do I store arugula leaves to keep them fresh?
To store arugula leaves and keep them fresh, make sure to keep them in a cool and dry place. You can store them in the refrigerator, where they will keep for up to a week. Simply place the leaves in a plastic bag or airtight container and store them in the crisper drawer.
You can also store arugula leaves in the freezer, where they will keep for up to 6 months. Simply chop the leaves and place them in an airtight container or freezer bag, then store them in the freezer. Frozen arugula leaves are perfect for cooked dishes, such as soups and stews.