Produce Briefs...
Galia Melon
The Galia melon has a lightly netted golden yellow rind with a pale glacial green succulent flesh that has a signature spicy sweet flavor with tropical and perfumed aromatics.
Iceberg Lettuce
It is the only lettuce type that does not occur in red form as well as green. Iceberg is the given name to dozens of cultivars of lettuce, all of which are adapted to specific planting regions and time periods.
Seasons/Availability
Arugula is available year round.
Current Facts
Arugula scientifically known as Eruca sativa is a member of the mustard or Brassicaceae family along with broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, mustard, radish and collard greens. Also known as salad rocket, roquette, Italian cress and rucola, both the leaves and flowers of this annual are edible and most commonly used today as a salad green.
Description/Taste
Arugula consists of vibrant green leaves attached to a pale creamy green hued stem. The leaves are lobed and can be harvested when young and mild in flavor or when fully mature at 3 or 4 inches in length. Arugula offers an herbaceous, peppery flavor with nuances of nuts and mustard. Leaves allowed to mature too long on the arugula plant will become bitter in taste. The pungent flavor of arugula is due to its high content of sulfur containing compounds known as glucosinolates.
Nutritional Value
Arugula is a nutrient rich leafy green providing vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin K, calcium, magnesium, riboflavin, copper, iron, zinc, folate and potassium. Cruciferious vegetables such as arugula are also high in antioxidant phytochemicals and rich in sulfur containing compounds known as glucosinolates which have been shown to have detoxifying properties and may be beneficial in the prevention of certain types of cancer.
Applications
In the culinary world arugula is used as an herb, a salad green and even a leaf vegetable, making it a versatile ingredient in the kitchen. It can be used both raw and cooked though cooking will give the leaves a milder flavor. Add to raw pesto and sauces to showcase its pungency. Use as a leafy bed for grilled seafood. Chop and sprinkle atop pizza and pasta just before serving. Combine with other greens to spice up a salad. Add whole leaves to grilled cheese sandwiches or a BLT. Use in lieu of spinach in omelets and quiche. In the Gulf of Naples on the island of Ischia arugula is made into a liqueur known as Rucolino. The sharp flavor of arugula pairs well with citrus, roasted beets, pears, pine nuts, olives, tomato and robust cheeses such as goat, blue and Parmigiano-Reggiano.
Ethnic/Cultural Info
Mention of arugula can be found in several religious texts, in 2 Kings in the Bible it is referred to as oroth and in Jewish texts such as the Mishna and Talmud that date back to first thru fifth century AD arugula is noted for its use as both a food and medicine. In ancient Rome and Egypt consumption of arugula leaves and seeds were associated with aphrodisiac properties. In India the leaves of arugula are not commonly used however the seeds of the plant are pressed to produce oil known as taramira that is used for medicinal and cosmetic purposes.
Geography/History
Native to the Mediterranean region, arugula blossoms and leaves have long been a popular ingredient in the cuisines of Italy, Morocco, Portugal and Turkey. Arugula was brought to America by British colonists but it was not until the 1990’s that arugula became known as a popular culinary ingredient in the United States. Arugula thrives in moderate to cool climates, too much heat will cause it to bolt and impart a bitter flavor on the leaves. It can grown on dry land and wet soil alike. Arugula's spicy aroma and flavor make it naturally resistant to pests.
Featured Restaurants
Restaurants currently purchasing this product as an ingredient for their menu.
| Village Pizzaria | Coronado CA | 619-522-6890 |
| The Australian Grill | Carlsbad CA | 858-222-9328 |
| JR Produce | San Diego CA | 858-270-3857 |
| Quality Social | San Diego CA | 619-501-7675 |
| West Steak and Seafood | Carlsbad CA | 760-930-9100 |
| Cal A Vie | Vista CA | 760-945-2055 |
| Baja Asiatio | Tijuana CA | 619-890-4448 |
| Grossmont-Cuyamaca Community College District | El Cajon CA | 619-644-7585 |
| Papa Luna's Empanadas | San Diego CA | 858-255-8875 |
| The Spot | San Diego CA | 858-459-0800 |
| Crown Point Catering | San Diego CA | 619-223-1211 |
| Wine Vault & Bistro | San Diego CA | 619-295-3939 |
| Fleming's Steakhouse Downtown | San Diego CA | 619-237-1155 |
| Sea Rocket Bistro | San Diego CA | 619-255-7049 |
| Juan Chou | San Diego CA | 619-487-0455 |
| Herringbone Bar | La Jolla CA | 858-459-0221 |
| Village Pizzeria Bay Side | Coronado CA | 619-522-6890 |
| The Farm House Cafe | San Diego CA | 619-269-9662 |
| Gro Café | San Diego CA | 619-253-8311 |
| Stingaree | San Diego CA | 619-544-0867 |
| Underdogs Gastro Truck | San Diego CA | 760-580-9158 |
Recipe Ideas
Recipes that include Arugula. One
is easiest, three is harder.| Pro Bono Baker |
|
Roasted Beet, Arugula and Goat Cheese Crostini |
| The Way the Cookie Crumbles |
|
Asparagus and Arugula Salad with Cannellini Beans |
| Diggin Food |
|
Arugula Pesto |
Recently Spotted
Someone spotted Arugula using the Specialty Produce app for iPhone and Android.
Produce Spotting allows you to share your produce discoveries with your neighbors and the world! Is your market carrying green dragon apples? Is a chef doing things with shaved fennel that are out of this world? Pinpoint your location annonymously through the Specialty Produce App and let others know about unique flavors that are around them.
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Stewarts Private Blend Foods Near Oak Park, Illinois, United States About 61 days ago |
