What Can I Substitute for Arugula?

Arugula is a versatile leafy green that adds a unique peppery flavor to many dishes, from salads to pasta. However, sometimes you might not have arugula on hand, or you might be looking for a different leafy green to complement your recipe. In this article, we'll explore various alternatives to arugula, helping you find the perfect substitute for your next meal.

Barley: A Nutritious Alternative

Barley, a grain that is often used in soups and stews, can also be a great substitute for arugula in certain dishes. While barley doesn’t provide a peppery flavor like arugula, it offers a nutty and slightly sweet taste that can enhance the overall flavors of a dish. Additionally, barley is a rich source of fiber and other essential nutrients, making it a healthier option in many cases. For example, you can use barley in a pasta dish where arugula is typically used, or in place of arugula in a grain salad.

Pea Sprouts: A Flavorful Asian Market Find

Pea sprouts are a delightful substitute for arugula, especially if you're looking for something with a fresh and crisp texture. These sprouts are popular in Asian markets and are often used in stir-fries, soups, and salads. They have a mild, slightly sweet taste that complements other flavors well. When using pea sprouts as a substitute for arugula, they can be added raw to salads or used as a garnish to enhance the visual appeal of your dish.

Watercress: A Peppery Alternative

Watercress is an excellent substitute for arugula due to its similar peppery flavor. This leafy green is rich in vitamins and minerals and is known for its strong, distinctive taste. Watercress can be used in a variety of dishes, including salads, soups, and sandwiches. If you're making a salad, simply substitute watercress for arugula, and you'll enjoy a similar peppery burst in your taste buds.

Curly Endive: A Bitter Alternative

Curly endive is another leafy green that can be used as a substitute for arugula. While it has a slightly bitter flavor, it shares the peppery and slightly spicy characteristics of arugula. Curly endive is commonly used in salads and can add a crisp texture to your dish. If you're making a cold salad, use curly endive instead of arugula, and you'll achieve a similar flavor profile. However, if you're looking for a milder taste, you might need to balance the bitterness with other ingredients.

Mustard Greens: A Tougher but Equally Flavorful Option

Mustard greens are a versatile and flavorful substitute for arugula, especially in cooked dishes. While they can be too tough to eat raw, parboiling them can soften them up and make them more palatable. Mustard greens have a strong, pungent flavor that can enhance the taste of soups, stews, and sautéed dishes. If you're making a cold dish, you may need to find a milder alternative. However, in cooked dishes, mustard greens can be an excellent choice.

Nasturtium Flower Leaves: A Garden Treasure

Nasturtium flower leaves are a unique and beautiful substitute for arugula. These leaves have a similar peppery flavor profile and can be used in salads or as a garnish. They are not commonly found in grocery stores, but if you have a garden, they can be a wonderful addition to your culinary repertoire. Nasturtium leaves are not only flavorful but also visually appealing, making them a great choice for garnishing your dishes.

Dandelion Leaves: A Garden-grown Treasure Trove

Dandelion leaves are a nutritious and flavorful alternative to arugula, especially if you love picking them from your yard. These leaves are rich in vitamin C and add a slightly bitter and peppery taste to your dishes. While they can vary in taste depending on where they're grown, dandelion leaves can be used in salads, soups, or even in pasta dishes. They are not only tasty but also a great source of nutrition.

Chard, Spinach, and Other Greens: A Versatile Option

For a different flavor but still the green aspect, you can use chard, spinach, or other tender greens as substitutes for arugula. These greens offer a variety of tastes and textures, making them suitable for a wide range of dishes. Chard, for example, can add a slightly bitter and earthy flavor to salads, while spinach can provide a milder, sweeter taste. Bok choy, beet greens, and turnip greens are also good options, especially if you need a more robust green for cooked dishes. These greens can be added raw to salads or cooked in soups and stews.

Radicchio: A Bitter but Flavorful Addition

Radicchio, a red leafy vegetable with a bitter and peppery taste, can also be a substitute for arugula. While it may not have the same peppery flavor, radicchio can add a vibrant color and a unique taste to your dishes. Radicchio is often used in salads, especially those with balsamic dressing, and can be used to enhance the flavor of soups and stews. Combine radicchio with other ingredients to create a balanced and delicious dish.

Conclusion

Whether you're looking for a similar peppery flavor or a different taste altogether, there are many alternatives to arugula that can work well in your dishes. Whether you use barley, pea sprouts, watercress, endive, mustard greens, or one of the other greens mentioned in this article, you can find the perfect substitute to add variety and flavor to your meals. So, the next time you run out of arugula or want a change in flavor, try one of these alternatives and enjoy the different possibilities that each substitute brings to your cooking.