Arugula: The Peppery Green with Ancient Roots and Modern Appeal

If you’ve ever added a handful of arugula to your salad or pizza and noticed its distinct peppery bite, you’ve experienced one of the most flavorful greens nature has to offer. Arugula may be a staple in FreshFix boxes and farmers markets across Western New York today, but its story stretches back thousands of years—and its benefits go far beyond flavor.

A Bite of History: Arugula’s Ancient Origins

Arugula, also known as “rocket,” has been celebrated for centuries. Its roots trace back to the Mediterranean region, where it was cultivated by the ancient Romans and Greeks. In fact, arugula wasn’t just prized as a food—it was considered an aphrodisiac and a symbol of vitality. Roman soldiers were said to eat it for strength, and it was even mentioned in early medicinal texts for its healing properties.

The name “arugula” comes from the Italian dialect of rucola, which itself evolved from the Latin eruca. Today, it’s still widely grown throughout Italy, where it adds a signature zest to salads, pastas, and pizzas. Over the past few decades, arugula has gained worldwide popularity, becoming a favorite of chefs and home cooks for its versatility and nutritional punch.

A Nutrient Powerhouse in Every Leaf

Don’t let those delicate leaves fool you—arugula packs a serious nutritional punch. It’s part of the Brassicaceae family, which includes kale, broccoli, and cabbage, all known for their health benefits.

Here’s what makes arugula such a standout:

Rich in vitamins and minerals: Arugula is an excellent source of vitamin K, which supports bone health, and vitamin A, which boosts your immune system and promotes healthy skin and eyes. It also contains vitamin C, calcium, folate, and magnesium.
High in antioxidants: These help protect your body from oxidative stress, reducing the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and certain cancers.
Supports digestion and detoxification: Like other cruciferous vegetables, arugula contains compounds that support liver health and aid in natural detoxification processes.
Low in calories, big on flavor: With only about five calories per cup, arugula adds texture, flavor, and nutrition without weighing down your meal.

In short, arugula is one of those greens that tastes indulgent but is doing your body all kinds of favors behind the scenes.

Cooking with Arugula: Fresh, Fast, and Flavorful

Arugula’s peppery, slightly nutty flavor makes it incredibly versatile in the kitchen. You can toss it into salads, layer it on sandwiches, scatter it over pizza just after baking, or blend it into pesto for a lighter twist. It pairs beautifully with citrus, parmesan, goat cheese, nuts, and balsamic vinaigrette.

For a quick FreshFix-inspired meal, try tossing arugula with roasted seasonal vegetables and local cheese, or add it to scrambled eggs for a morning boost. Its flavor shines brightest when used fresh, but it also softens nicely when lightly wilted into warm dishes.

Storage Tips: Keeping It Fresh Longer

Because arugula is tender, it can wilt quickly if not stored properly. Here’s how to make the most of your greens:

Keep it dry: Excess moisture causes arugula to spoil faster. After washing, spin or pat it dry thoroughly.
Store in a breathable container: Place the leaves in a produce bag or container lined with a dry paper towel. This helps absorb moisture while keeping the greens crisp.
Refrigerate promptly: Store arugula in the crisper drawer at around 35–40°F.
Use within 3–5 days: For best flavor and texture, enjoy your arugula soon after it arrives in your FreshFix box.

If your arugula starts to wilt slightly, don’t toss it! You can revive it by soaking the leaves in cold water for 5–10 minutes, or use it in a cooked dish where a little softness doesn’t matter—like a pasta toss or warm grain bowl.

A FreshFix Favorite

Arugula isn’t just another leafy green—it’s a centuries-old ingredient with modern-day appeal, bringing both nutrition and personality to every meal. Whether you toss it in a salad, pile it on a pizza, or blend it into pesto, this little green proves that big things come in small, peppery packages.

Next time you unpack your FreshFix box, let arugula take center stage. Your taste buds—and your body—will thank you.

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