Cooking Arugula Like Spinach: Tips And Techniques For Delicious Dishes

Arugula and spinach have long been staples in kitchens around the world, each bringing its own unique flavor and nutritional profile to a variety of dishes. While spinach often takes the spotlight in recipes, arugula has gained popularity for its peppery kick and vibrant green color. Cooking arugula like spinach can create delicious and unexpected results.

This guide aims to explore the many ways you can incorporate arugula into your cooking, utilizing techniques that are typically used for spinach. From sautéing and wilting to steaming and adding to soups, arugula offers flexibility and can easily fill roles that spinach traditionally plays in your dishes.

Understanding how to cook arugula like spinach not only expands your arsenal of ingredients but also elevates the flavors of your meals. With a few easy techniques and insights, you’ll be creating gourmet-quality dishes in no time.

Nutritional Benefits of Arugula and Spinach

Both arugula and spinach are widely recognized for their health benefits, being rich in vitamins A, C, K, and folate. However, there are some differences worth noting. Arugula is typically lower in calories and carbs, while being high in calcium, magnesium, and iron.

In addition, arugula has unique compounds like glucosinolates, which can offer anti-inflammatory benefits. Spinach, on the other hand, is renowned for its high levels of iron and antioxidants. Both greens bring a range of nutrients that help support overall well-being.

Here’s a helpful comparison of arugula and spinach’s nutritional profiles:

Techniques for Cooking Arugula

Sautéing Arugula

Sautéing is a quick and effective way to cook arugula. Just like spinach, arugula wilts down significantly, making it a great addition to many dishes.

To sauté arugula, start by heating some olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add garlic or onions for flavor and cook for about a minute. Then toss in the arugula, stirring frequently until it wilts. This method highlights the peppery flavor and retains a good amount of nutrients.

Adding Arugula to Soups and Stews

Arugula can be a wonderful addition to soups and stews. The heat softens the leaves while integrating their unique flavor into the broth.

When adding arugula, consider putting it in towards the end of the cooking process. This will prevent overcooking. Stir in a handful during the last few minutes of cooking, just as you would with spinach.

Steaming Arugula

Another simple method is steaming. Steaming has the advantage of preserving the nutritional content while providing a tender texture.

To steam arugula, place it in a steamer basket over boiling water, cover, and let it cook for about two minutes. The leaves will become tender and vibrant without losing their benefits, much like steamed spinach.

Incorporating Arugula into Salads

While arugula can certainly stand alone in a salad, it also pairs beautifully with other greens, including spinach. Its peppery flavor adds a new dimension to mixed salads.

Consider combining arugula with ingredients like nuts, berries, cheese, and vinaigrette to create a balanced dish. Its robust flavor complements milder ingredients effectively.

Arugula in Pasta Dishes

Using Arugula in Pesto

Pesto is traditionally made with basil, but arugula can provide a lovely twist on the classic recipe. The peppery taste of arugula makes for a vibrant and flavorful sauce.

Combine arugula, garlic, parmesan, nuts, and olive oil in a food processor. Blend until smooth, and adjust the consistency with additional oil if needed. Toss this pesto with your favorite pasta or use it as a spread on sandwiches.

Adding Arugula to Pasta Dishes

Arugula can be a fantastic addition to sautéed pasta dishes. Simply stir in fresh arugula when the pasta is nearly finished cooking.

It will wilt slightly and add a fresh burst of flavor. Complement it with ingredients like cherry tomatoes, olives, or feta cheese for a delightful dish.

Creative Ways to Use Arugula

Making Arugula Chips

For a crunchy snack, consider making arugula chips. This is a simple method that mirrors how you would prepare kale chips.

Wash and dry arugula leaves, then toss them in a bit of olive oil and salt. Spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until crisp. They make for a nutritious and tasty addition to your snack repertoire.

Adding Arugula to Breakfast Dishes

Arugula can spice up your breakfast routine as well. Adding it to scrambled eggs or omelets introduces flavor and increases nutrient density.

You can also throw arugula into a breakfast burrito or mix it into a frittata. The slight bitterness contrasts nicely with egg dishes.

Storage Tips for Arugula

Refrigerating Arugula

Proper storage can make all the difference in maintaining the freshness of arugula. Ideally, store it in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator.

Place the arugula in a plastic bag or container lined with a paper towel to absorb any excess moisture. This will help keep the leaves crisp for longer.

Freezing Arugula

If you have an abundance of arugula, consider freezing it for later use. Blanch the leaves in boiling water for a minute, then transfer them to an ice bath.

Once cooled, drain and pat dry before placing them in freezer bags. Frozen arugula can be tossed directly into soups and stews without thawing.

Flavor Pairings with Arugula

Protein Pairings

Arugula works wonderfully with various proteins, enhancing both salads and mains. Consider pairing it with grilled chicken, fish, or tofu for a satisfying meal.

Cheese Pairings

Cheese can elevate the flavors of arugula. Feta, goat cheese, and parmesan are fantastic complements, adding creaminess and richness to dishes.

Herb Pairings

Herbs like basil, dill, and parsley can enhance arugula’s peppery flavor profile. Combine them in salads or pesto for remarkable taste experiences.

Utilizing Arugula in Different Cuisines

Italian Cuisine

In Italian dishes, arugula is often used fresh on pizza or in salads. It can add zing to richer foods like cheesy pastas, balancing out flavors beautifully.

Middle Eastern Cuisine

Arugula features prominently in Middle Eastern salads like fattoush, where its bitterness cuts through the rich flavors of fried bread and robust dressings.

Asian Cuisine

In Asian dishes, arugula can be used in stir-fries or tossed with sesame dressing. Its unique flavor complements strong flavors like soy sauce and ginger.

Conclusion

In summary, arugula serves as a versatile green that can be cooked in ways similar to spinach. Whether sautéing, steaming, or incorporating it into soups and salads, arugula delivers both flavor and nutrition. With its unique pungency, it can diversify your dishes and create exciting flavor combinations.

Experiment with these techniques and ideas to bring arugula into your culinary repertoire. By embracing this remarkable green, you’re not only exploring new tastes but also enhancing the nutritional profile of your meals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I cook arugula like spinach?

Yes, you can easily cook arugula like spinach in various ways such as sautéing, steaming, or adding it to soups. The key is to monitor cooking time, as arugula wilts quickly.

What are the best ways to eat arugula?

Arugula can be enjoyed fresh in salads, blended into pesto, or cooked in dishes like pastas and soups. It brings a unique peppery flavor to any meal.

How should I store arugula to keep it fresh?

Store arugula in the refrigerator’s crisper drawer, preferably in a plastic bag with a paper towel to absorb moisture. This helps maintain its crispness.

Can arugula be frozen for later use?

Yes, you can freeze arugula after blanching it briefly in boiling water. This allows you to add it to dishes later without losing too much flavor or texture.