What's in a Name? Arugula, Rocket, and Rucola
In the United States and Canada, the peppery, leafy green known as "rocket" in the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand, is most commonly called arugula. The term arugula comes from a nonstandard Italian dialect, while the British rocket is borrowed from the French roquette, itself from the Italian ruchetta. The scientific name for this plant, which belongs to the mustard family (Brassicaceae), is Eruca vesicaria or Eruca sativa. Other names for this versatile ingredient include roquette and rucola, showcasing its rich history and international popularity.
The Flavor Profile: A Peppery Kick
Arugula's most notable characteristic is its distinctive, peppery flavor, which sets it apart from more mild salad greens like lettuce. The intensity of this flavor can vary depending on the plant's age and variety. Younger, smaller leaves tend to be milder and more tender, while older, larger leaves develop a more pronounced and pungent bite. This spicy, slightly nutty profile is what makes arugula a popular choice for adding a gourmet touch to many dishes.
Wild vs. Salad Rocket (Arugula)
Within the world of arugula, there are a couple of common varieties, each with its own characteristics:
- Salad Rocket (Eruca sativa): This is the more common, cultivated variety often found in grocery stores. It grows quickly and produces milder, more tender leaves.
- Wild Rocket (Diplotaxis tenuifolia): This variety, also known as wild arugula, has a more intense, spicier flavor and deeply serrated leaves. Wild rocket is often more resilient and can be grown for longer seasons.
Comparison: Arugula vs. Other Salad Greens
| Feature | Arugula (Rocket) | Spinach | Romaine Lettuce |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flavor | Peppery, pungent, slightly nutty | Mild, earthy | Mild, crisp, watery |
| Texture | Tender, delicate leaves | Soft, buttery leaves | Crisp, crunchy leaves |
| Best Used | Salads, sandwiches, pizza topping, pesto | Cooked dishes, salads, smoothies | Caesar salads, wraps |
| Key Nutrients | Vitamin K, Vitamin C, antioxidants | Iron, Vitamin A, Folate | Vitamin A, Folate |
The Health Benefits of Arugula
Beyond its distinctive taste, arugula is packed with nutrients that offer significant health benefits, making it more than just a garnish. Arugula is a cruciferous vegetable, putting it in the same family as broccoli and kale, and shares many of their health-promoting properties.
Key Health Advantages:
- Packed with Vitamins: Arugula is an excellent source of vitamins K, C, and A, which are vital for bone health, immune function, and vision.
- Rich in Antioxidants: It contains powerful antioxidants that help protect the body's cells from damage caused by free radicals.
- Supports Bone Health: The combination of vitamin K, calcium, and magnesium in arugula makes it a strong ally for maintaining healthy, strong bones.
- Cancer-Fighting Compounds: Like other cruciferous vegetables, arugula contains glucosinolates, which have been studied for their potential to help protect against certain types of cancer.
- Heart Health: Arugula is a good source of potassium and fiber, both of which are beneficial for regulating blood pressure and supporting overall cardiovascular health.
How to Incorporate Arugula into Your Cooking
This versatile green can be enjoyed in a variety of ways, both raw and cooked. Here are a few ideas:
- Salads: Create a vibrant and simple salad by tossing fresh arugula with shaved parmesan, a drizzle of high-quality olive oil, and a squeeze of lemon juice.
- Pizza Topping: Add a handful of fresh arugula to the top of a pizza right after it comes out of the oven for a fresh, peppery finish.
- Pesto: Substitute basil with arugula to make a peppery pesto that works wonderfully on pasta or as a spread for sandwiches.
- Sandwiches and Wraps: Layer arugula into sandwiches and wraps to add a boost of flavor and nutrition.
- Cooked Dishes: Lightly wilt arugula into pasta dishes, stir-fries, or soups to mellow its peppery flavor.
Conclusion
For anyone looking for rocket salad in the US, the answer is simple: just ask for arugula. The term, adopted from Italian, refers to the same peppery, nutrient-dense leafy green known and loved around the world. Whether enjoyed raw in a simple salad or added to cooked dishes, arugula is a flavorful and healthy addition to any meal, proving that a rose by any other name still tastes as sweet—or in this case, as peppery.
