15 Best Arugula Recipes And How To Store It Properly

What is Arugula

Arugula is a versatile and flavorful green that can elevate your meals in so many ways. Whether you’re looking for Arugula Dinner Recipes, Arugula Pasta dishes, or simple Arugula Salad Recipes, this peppery green can be used in countless ways to make your meals exciting. From Arugula Pesto to Arugula Salad, it adds a refreshing crunch to any dish.

It’s perfect for everything from Arugula Lunch Recipes to a comforting casserole. If you’re wondering what to do with arugula, we’ve got you covered with recipes like Sauteed Arugula and Roasted Vegetable Recipes that will impress your dinner guests. For a quick and Easy Arugula Salad or Arugula Side Salad, this leafy green can be tossed in Parmesan Salad or used to create hearty Arugula Dishes.

Whether you’re cooking with arugula for the first time or a seasoned pro, these Arugula Recipes Cooked to perfection will soon become your go-to meals. From light Arugula Salad Recipes to satisfying Arugula Recipes Dinners, you’ll find endless inspiration for delicious meals.

Benefits of Arugula

Arugula is not only flavorful but also offers several potential health benefits due to its nutrient content. Here are some of the benefits associated with consuming arugula:

1. Rich in Nutrients: Arugula is a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamins A, C, and K. These vitamins play important roles in supporting immune function, skin health, vision, and blood clotting.
2. Antioxidant Properties: Arugula contains antioxidants like vitamin C and beta-carotene, which help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body. Antioxidants contribute to reducing the risk of chronic diseases and supporting overall health.
3. Bone Health: The high vitamin K content in arugula is essential for bone health, as it helps regulate calcium in bones and contributes to bone mineralization.
4. Heart Health: Arugula contains nitrates, which have been shown to help improve blood vessel function and lower blood pressure. The presence of antioxidants like vitamin C may also contribute to heart health by reducing oxidative stress.
5. Weight Management: Arugula is low in calories and carbohydrates, making it a great addition to a weight-conscious diet. Its fiber content can also promote feelings of fullness, potentially aiding in weight management.
6. Eye Health: The presence of vitamin A and other antioxidants in arugula may contribute to maintaining healthy vision and reducing the risk of age-related macular degeneration.
7. Cancer Prevention: Some studies suggest that the sulfur-containing compounds in arugula may have potential cancer-fighting properties, particularly against certain types of cancer like colorectal cancer.
8. Digestive Health: Arugula contains dietary fiber, which supports healthy digestion and may aid in preventing constipation.
9. Hydration: Arugula has a high water content, which can contribute to hydration, especially when included in meals or salads.
10. Anti-Inflammatory Potential: The phytochemicals found in arugula may possess anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the body.

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15 Delicious Arugula Recipes You Need to Try Today

1. Arugula Salad with Lemon and Parmesan

This simple, fresh salad is perfect for a quick lunch or as a side dish. The tangy lemon and salty parmesan really bring out the peppery taste of arugula. It’s so easy and quick, and you’ll probably end up making it all the time!

Ingredients:

• 4 cups fresh arugula
• 1 lemon (juiced)
• ¼ cup parmesan (shredded)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

Instructions:

1. Rinse and dry the arugula leaves.
2. Place arugula in a large bowl.
3. Drizzle lemon juice over the arugula.
4. Sprinkle parmesan cheese over the top.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss everything together.
6. Serve right away.

Servings: 2
Time: 10 minutes

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2. Arugula Pesto

I love making pesto with arugula instead of basil for a unique twist. It’s full of flavor and goes perfectly with pasta, sandwiches, or even grilled chicken!

Ingredients:

• 2 cups arugula
• ½ cup olive oil
• ¼ cup parmesan cheese
• 1 garlic clove
• 1/4 cup pine nuts (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Add arugula, olive oil, parmesan, garlic, and pine nuts to a food processor.
2. Blend until smooth, adding more olive oil if needed.
3. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Serve on pasta, sandwiches, or use as a dip!

Servings: 4
Time: 10 minutes

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3. Arugula and Quiche

This arugula quiche is a perfect brunch dish. The combination of eggs, arugula, and a buttery crust is irresistible! It’s so satisfying and feels fancy without being too complicated.

Ingredients:

• 1 pre-made pie crust
• 2 cups fresh arugula
• 4 eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a skillet, sauté arugula until it wilts.
3. Beat eggs and milk together in a bowl.
4. Stir in the sautéed arugula, cheese, salt, and pepper.
5. Pour mixture into the pie crust.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown.
7. Let it cool a bit before slicing.

Servings: 6
Time: 45 minutes

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4. Arugula and Goat Cheese Pizza

This pizza is so fresh and delicious with the arugula adding a spicy crunch, and the goat cheese giving it a creamy, tangy flavor. It’s a fun way to mix up pizza night!

Ingredients:

• 1 pizza dough
• 1 cup fresh arugula
• 4 oz goat cheese (crumbled)
• Olive oil (for brushing)
• 1 garlic clove (minced)
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C).
2. Roll out the pizza dough on a baking sheet.
3. Brush with olive oil and sprinkle with minced garlic.
4. Bake the dough for 7-10 minutes until golden.
5. Remove from the oven, then top with arugula and goat cheese.
6. Sprinkle with salt and pepper and serve.

Servings: 2
Time: 20 minutes

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5. Arugula and Avocado Salad

This salad is creamy, crunchy, and super healthy! The creamy avocado pairs beautifully with the peppery arugula. It’s a great side or a light lunch.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups fresh arugula
• 1 avocado (sliced)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Toss the arugula and avocado slices in a bowl.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately.

Servings: 2
Time: 5 minutes

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6. Arugula and Tomato Pasta

A quick, light pasta dish with fresh arugula, juicy tomatoes, and olive oil. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!

Ingredients:

• 8 oz pasta
• 2 cups fresh arugula
• 2 tomatoes (diced)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 garlic clove (minced)
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions.
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté garlic for 1 minute.
3. Add diced tomatoes and cook for 5 minutes until soft.
4. Stir in arugula and cook for another minute.
5. Toss the cooked pasta with the tomato mixture.
6. Season with salt and pepper.

Servings: 4
Time: 15 minutes

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7. Arugula and Quinoa Salad

This salad is packed with nutrients and flavor! The quinoa adds a nice texture to the peppery arugula and it’s super filling.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• 2 cups arugula
• 1 cucumber (diced)
• 1 tomato (diced)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine quinoa, arugula, cucumber, and tomato.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to combine.
3. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Servings: 4
Time: 10 minutes

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8. Arugula and Beet Salad

This colorful salad is so tasty with sweet beets and peppery arugula. It’s light, healthy, and perfect as a side or main dish.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh arugula
• 2 roasted beets (sliced)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Place arugula in a bowl.
2. Add sliced beets on top.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
4. Season with salt and pepper, then toss.

Servings: 2
Time: 10 minutes

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9. Arugula, Pear, and Blue Cheese Salad

This salad is a lovely mix of sweet and savory. The pears and blue cheese balance out the arugula’s peppery taste perfectly.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups arugula
• 1 pear (sliced)
• ¼ cup blue cheese (crumbled)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp honey

Instructions:

1. Toss arugula, pear slices, and blue cheese in a bowl.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and honey.
3. Toss to combine and serve immediately.

Servings: 2
Time: 10 minutes

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10. Grilled Chicken with Arugula Salad

Grilled chicken on top of a fresh arugula salad makes for a healthy, protein-packed meal. It’s light but satisfying.

Ingredients:

• 2 chicken breasts
• 4 cups arugula
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Lemon for garnish

Instructions:

1. Grill chicken breasts until cooked through (about 6-8 minutes per side).
2. Toss arugula with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Slice chicken and place on top of the salad.
4. Garnish with a squeeze of lemon.

Servings: 2
Time: 20 minutes

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11. Arugula, Chickpea, and Feta Salad

A hearty and filling salad that combines the crunch of chickpeas with the creaminess of feta. It’s quick and nutritious!

Ingredients:

• 2 cups arugula
• 1 cup canned chickpeas (rinsed and drained)
• ¼ cup feta (crumbled)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, toss arugula, chickpeas, and feta together.
2. Drizzle with olive oil.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately.

Servings: 2
Time: 10 minutes

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12. Arugula and Mushroom Flatbread

A simple, savory flatbread with the peppery bite of arugula and earthy mushrooms. It’s perfect for a snack or appetizer.

Ingredients:

• 1 flatbread
• 1 cup mushrooms (sliced)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cups arugula
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Brush flatbread with olive oil.
3. Top with sliced mushrooms and bake for 10 minutes.
4. After baking, top with arugula, salt, and pepper.
5. Slice and serve.

Servings: 2
Time: 15 minutes

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13. Arugula and Roasted Sweet Potato Salad

Sweet potatoes and arugula make a great pair in this salad. The sweetness of the potatoes balances the peppery taste of the arugula.

Ingredients:

• 2 sweet potatoes (cubed)
• 4 cups arugula
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Roast cubed sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes.
2. Toss arugula with the roasted sweet potatoes.
3. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Servings: 2
Time: 40 minutes

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14. Arugula, Carrot, and Cucumber Salad

A crunchy, refreshing salad with the sweetness of carrots and cucumber and the peppery flavor of arugula.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups arugula
• 1 carrot (shredded)
• 1 cucumber (sliced)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Toss arugula, shredded carrot, and cucumber together.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Serve immediately.

Servings: 2
Time: 5 minutes

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15. Arugula and Roasted Tomato Salad

The sweetness of roasted tomatoes and the freshness of arugula come together beautifully in this simple salad.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups arugula
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Roast halved tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes.
2. Toss roasted tomatoes with arugula.
3. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Servings: 2
Time: 25 minutes

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Enjoy these delicious arugula recipes! They’re healthy, quick, and perfect for any occasion!

How to Store Arugula: Simple Methods to Keep It Fresh

Arugula is one of those greens that I always have in my fridge. Its peppery flavor just adds a spark to everything—whether it’s a salad, a sandwich, or even pasta. But if you’re anything like me, you might’ve noticed how quickly it can go bad if you’re not storing it right. So, after a few trial-and-error attempts (and some sad wilted arugula), I’ve figured out a few foolproof methods to keep it fresh. Let me share them with you!

Method 1: The Paper Towel Trick

This is hands down my go-to method because it’s so simple and works like a charm.

1. First, give the arugula a gentle rinse under cold water to get rid of dirt.
2. Use a salad spinner or pat it dry with a clean kitchen towel. The leaves need to be dry because too much water makes them spoil faster.
3. Lay a paper towel on your countertop and spread the arugula on it.
4. Roll up the paper towel like you’re wrapping up a burrito (not too tight though) and stick it inside a ziplock bag or reusable container.
5. Pop it in your fridge’s crisper drawer.

This keeps the arugula fresh for about 5 days! The paper towel absorbs extra moisture, so the leaves don’t get slimy.

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Method 2: Use a Breathable Bag

If you have those reusable mesh produce bags, they’re perfect for storing arugula.

1. Don’t wash the arugula before storing it (save that for when you’re ready to use it).
2. Put the unwashed leaves in the bag and place it in your crisper drawer.
3. The breathable fabric keeps enough air flowing to prevent wilting but still retains just the right amount of moisture.

This method is great if you’re planning to use the arugula within 3–4 days.

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Method 3: Store in a Glass Jar

I stumbled across this method when I ran out of space in my fridge, and it turned out to be a lifesaver.

1. Wash and dry the arugula leaves completely.
2. Take a clean glass jar (like an old pickle jar or mason jar).
3. Line the bottom with a dry paper towel and loosely pack the arugula inside.
4. Cover the top with another paper towel and screw on the lid.

This method keeps the arugula fresh and crisp for up to a week, and the glass jar actually prevents crushing.

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Method 4: Freeze It for Later

Okay, let’s be real. Sometimes life happens, and you just can’t use up the arugula in time. Here’s what I do:

1. Quickly blanch the leaves in boiling water for about 30 seconds.
2. Transfer them to a bowl of ice water immediately to stop the cooking.
3. Pat them dry and lay them flat on a baking sheet.
4. Freeze them until solid (a couple of hours) and then transfer them to a freezer bag.

This method isn’t for salads, but frozen arugula works great in soups, pesto, or sautéed dishes.

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Method 5: Keep It Alive (Hydration Method)

If you bought arugula with the roots still attached, you can treat it like fresh herbs!

1. Fill a glass or jar with about an inch of water.
2. Place the roots in the water, keeping the leaves above the rim.
3. Cover the top loosely with a plastic bag and store it in the fridge.

It’s like having a mini garden in your fridge, and the arugula can stay fresh for up to a week or longer.

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Honestly, these methods have saved me so many trips to the store. It feels so good to open the fridge and see fresh, crisp arugula ready to go. I hope these tips help you too! Which one will you try first? Let me know if you have a favorite way to store arugula—I’m always looking for new hacks!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)