Arugula

“Arugula” is one of the names for a salad green whose popularity originated in Italy. It’s also known as rocket, rugula, and rucola. Mature arugula has a peppery taste, somewhat like watercress. However, tiny young arugula leaves have a very delicate flavor. Like watercress, arugula is sold in bunches. It’s also frequently added to mesclun and “field lettuce” mixes. Baby arugula is somewhat fragile once it is picked, but it’s easy to grow and will reseed itself in areas where there is no hard winter freeze. We use it at the Market to make a unique arugula pesto that’s delicious on pasta, grilled fish, chicken, vegetables, sandwiches, and grilled or toasted bread, as well as for a pizza base in place of marinara or pizza sauce.