In this category, in our online vegetable seeds catalog, you will find a wide selection of varietal seeds of useful annual plants such as Arugula. This herb is also known as eruca and rocket and is widespread in the Mediterranean, where it has become a favorite culinary ingredient in many traditional dishes. In addition to its great culinary application, arugula also boasts a rich nutritional composition.
And what exactly is arugula?
Arugula is a herbaceous crop from the Cruciferous family. It is believed that it originates from Antiquity, where in Ancient Rome it was widely used in cooking, in the form of a spice. Arugula seeds were also known for their aphrodisiac effect. According to some legends, precisely with this popularity, in Ancient Egypt, a special drink was prepared from the seeds of the plant, which was given to the groom on his wedding day.
The vegetable of the same name grows from a plant that reaches a height of up to 60 cm. It is characterized by green leaves. They are fleshy, and hairy, and have an interesting/specific aroma. It is the arugula leaves that make the vegetable so remarkable. They differ from other green leaves with their specific aroma and taste, which can be described as an unusual combination between slightly bitter and slightly spicy, with a noticeable nutty note.
With its unusual taste and not particularly popular in our latitudes, arugula can be defined as an exotic crop. As such, it is interesting to note that it is relatively easy to grow because this green leaf does not require much care. It is grown from seeds that are sown in the spring months of April-May. It needs a shady place or a place that is not exposed to sunlight all day, and temperatures up to 25°C. It is important to water regularly and abundantly. It is suitable for sowing in boxes and pots. It is believed that about a month, a month and a half after sowing, the petals of the plant are most aromatic and tasty.
Arugula is closely related to mustard, so its specific taste is no surprise. Culinarily, culture is a popular ingredient in many salads. The leaves of the vegetable are used, which have become a culinary favorite in Mediterranean cuisine. Arugula is added to traditional Italian pasta, Italian pizza, and risotto. It is also consumed alone, fresh, in combination with green salad, a little olive oil, and balsamic vinegar. The slightly bitter and spicy leaves combine perfectly with pine nuts and various others.
Apart from its culinary application, an arugula is also a valuable vegetable for its rich nutritional composition. Known also under the names of eruca and rocket, it is one of the few green leaves that have a high content of provitamin A - beta-carotene, which strengthens the immune system, Omega-3 fatty acids, important antioxidants, and folic acid.
The rich composition of useful substances in arugula is also supplemented by vitamin A, group B vitamins, vitamin C, and vitamin K. The important minerals potassium, and iron, as well as phosphorus, magnesium, and sodium, are also found in a solid amount in the vegetable. Arugula also contains essential oils, fiber, carbohydrates, and proteins.
As a worthy representative of green leafy vegetables, arugula is also low in calories - 100 grams contain only 25 calories, making it an excellent dietary choice.
With its low-calorie content and its many useful substances, arugula has become a culinary exotic that definitely deserves a place of honor on our menu (our kitchen)!
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