Are you a fan of peppery, slightly bitter greens? Look no further! Arugula, also known as rocket, is a popular ingredient that adds depth and excitement to many dishes. In this collection of 18 spicy arugula recipes, we’re celebrating the versatility of this tasty green by sharing a variety of creative and mouth-watering ideas.
From savory pasta dishes to decadent risottos, these recipes showcase the best of arugula’s bold flavor and texture. Whether you like it sautéed with garlic and lemon zest or wilted with crispy pancetta, we’ve got you covered. So go ahead, get creative in the kitchen, and add a spicy kick to your meals with these arugula recipes.
Garlic Sautéed Arugula with Lemon Zest
A bright and tangy side dish that highlights the peppery flavor of arugula, perfectly balanced by the richness of garlic and a hint of lemon.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups arugula
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
3. Add the arugula to the skillet and stir to combine with the garlic and oil.
4. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the arugula has wilted slightly.
5. Squeeze the lemon juice over the arugula and sprinkle with lemon zest.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Creamy Arugula and Parmesan Risotto
Elevate your meal with this creamy risotto dish, featuring peppery arugula and nutty Parmesan cheese. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups arugula leaves
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add Arborio rice and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes or until lightly toasted.
4. Add warmed broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
5. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, stir in arugula and cook until wilted.
6. Remove from heat, then stir in Parmesan cheese and butter until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Arugula and Sausage Pasta
This spicy pasta dish combines the bold flavors of Italian sausage and peppery arugula with a hint of heat from red pepper flakes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful lunch.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups arugula leaves
– 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp red pepper flakes
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through.
3. Add garlic and arugula to the skillet; cook until wilted.
4. Add red wine vinegar, olive oil, and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked spaghetti and sausage mixture in a large serving bowl. Toss to combine.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Arugula with Roasted Tomatoes
This sweet and tangy salad is a perfect combination of fresh arugula, caramelized roasted tomatoes, and a rich balsamic glaze. It’s a simple yet impressive side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups arugula
– 2 large heirloom tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup shaved Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
2. In a small saucepan, combine balsamic vinegar and honey. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 5-7 minutes or until thickened slightly.
3. In a large bowl, combine arugula and roasted tomatoes.
4. Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the salad and toss to coat.
5. Top with shaved Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Arugula and Goat Cheese Stuffed Chicken
Elevate your chicken game with this flavorful and elegant recipe that combines the tanginess of goat cheese with the peppery taste of arugula. Perfect for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh arugula
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together goat cheese, arugula, and garlic.
3. Lay the chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each breast with the goat cheese mixture, dividing it evenly among the four breasts.
5. Drizzle the outside of the chicken with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Wilted Arugula with Crispy Pancetta
Elevate your salad game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the peppery taste of arugula with the crispy, savory goodness of pancetta. Perfect as a side dish or added to pasta or risotto.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups arugula
– 6 slices pancetta, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place pancetta on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 10-12 minutes or until crispy.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add arugula to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Stir in pancetta crisps and season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice (if using).
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Arugula and White Bean Soup
This hearty soup combines the peppery flavor of arugula with creamy cannellini beans, garlic, and chicken broth for a deliciously comforting meal. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups arugula leaves
– 1 can (15 ounces) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
2. Add arugula leaves and cook until wilted, about 3 minutes.
3. Add cannellini beans, chicken broth, and heavy cream or half-and-half. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat and let soup simmer for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pesto Arugula Pizza with Roasted Garlic
Elevate your pizza game with this flavorful combination of creamy pesto, peppery arugula, and sweet roasted garlic. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 1/4 cup pesto
– 2 cups arugula
– 3 cloves garlic, peeled and separated into individual cloves
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness.
3. Spread pesto over the dough, leaving a small border around edges.
4. Roast garlic cloves in olive oil for 15-20 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
5. Top pizza with roasted garlic, arugula, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. If using mozzarella cheese, sprinkle on top.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Grilled Peach and Arugula Flatbread
This sweet and savory flatbread is perfect for a summer evening dinner or as a unique appetizer for your next gathering. The combination of grilled peaches, peppery arugula, and creamy goat cheese on a crispy flatbread crust is a match made in heaven.
Ingredients:
– 1 pre-baked flatbread
– 2 ripe peaches, sliced into wedges
– 4 oz goat cheese, crumbled
– 4 cups arugula leaves
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Brush peach slices with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, until caramelized.
3. Meanwhile, spread arugula leaves on the flatbread crust.
4. Top arugula with crumbled goat cheese.
5. Once peaches are grilled, place them on top of the goat cheese.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Arugula and Mushroom Quiche
This savory quiche is a perfect combination of earthy mushrooms and peppery arugula, wrapped up in a flaky crust. It’s an ideal brunch option or light dinner for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 4 cups arugula leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pie crust and place in a 9-inch tart pan.
3. In a skillet, sauté mushrooms and garlic until tender. Add arugula and cook until wilted.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together cream and eggs. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Arrange mushroom mixture in the pie crust. Top with cheese and pour egg mixture over.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the quiche is set and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Arugula Tart
Elevate your dinner party with this elegant tart that combines sweet caramelized onions, peppery arugula, and flaky pastry. Perfect for a special occasion or a weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups arugula leaves
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
2. In a large skillet, cook onions over medium-low heat for 30-40 minutes or until caramelized and golden brown.
3. Arrange arugula leaves on one half of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
4. Spoon caramelized onions over arugula, followed by Parmesan cheese.
5. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling, pressing edges to seal.
6. Brush with beaten egg and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 55-65 minutes
Arugula and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this creative take on traditional stuffed shells. This recipe combines the earthy flavor of arugula with the creamy richness of ricotta cheese, all wrapped up in tender homemade pasta.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 cup fresh arugula, chopped
– 2 cups whole-milk ricotta cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine arugula, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the arugula-ricotta mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed shells and top with mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Arugula and Shrimp Stir-Fry
This recipe combines the peppery flavor of arugula with succulent shrimp, all wrapped up in a spicy kick. A quick and easy meal perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 cups arugula
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the arugula and cook until wilted, about 1 minute.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, ginger, and red pepper flakes.
6. Pour the sauce over the arugula and stir to combine.
7. Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss with the arugula mixture.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Garnish with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Arugula and Sweet Potato Hash
Elevate your brunch game with this flavorful and nutritious dish that combines the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes with the peppery kick of arugula. This hash is perfect for a weekend breakfast or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups arugula, chopped
– 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add red onion and garlic; cook for 3-4 minutes or until softened.
4. Add roasted sweet potatoes to the skillet and stir to combine with onion mixture.
5. Stir in chopped arugula and apple cider vinegar (if using). Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until arugula is wilted.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Roasted Garlic Arugula Mashed Potatoes
Elevate your mashed potato game with the pungency of roasted garlic and the peppery bite of arugula. This recipe combines the two in a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 2 heads of garlic, separated into individual cloves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/2 cup arugula leaves
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss potatoes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. Meanwhile, roast garlic cloves in the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes or until caramelized.
4. In a large bowl, combine roasted potatoes, arugula leaves, Parmesan cheese, and roasted garlic. Mash with a fork until smooth. Season to taste.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Arugula and Prosciutto Stuffed Pork Tenderloin
This recipe combines the crispness of arugula and the salty sweetness of prosciutto to create a mouthwatering stuffed pork tenderloin that’s sure to impress. The perfect blend of flavors and textures makes for a memorable dining experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-1.5 pound) pork tenderloin
– 4 slices of prosciutto, thinly sliced
– 2 cups arugula leaves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together arugula, prosciutto, and garlic.
3. Lay the pork tenderloin flat and make a horizontal incision, being careful not to cut all the way through.
4. Stuff the pork with the arugula-prosciutto mixture, dividing it evenly along the length of the tenderloin.
5. Close the incision and secure with kitchen twine or toothpicks.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the pork and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
8. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Warm Arugula and Bacon Potato Salad
Warm Arugula and Bacon Potato Salad: A Twist on a Classic
This recipe adds a burst of fresh flavor to traditional potato salad by incorporating warm arugula and crispy bacon. Perfect for a light and satisfying side dish or main course.
Ingredients:
– 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 4 cups arugula leaves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss potatoes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast potatoes for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
4. Meanwhile, warm arugula leaves in the oven for 5-7 minutes or until slightly wilted.
5. In a large bowl, combine roasted potatoes, warm arugula, red onion, and crumbled bacon.
6. Drizzle with remaining olive oil and white wine vinegar. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Arugula and Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Bake
This vibrant pasta bake combines the peppery flavor of arugula with the savory sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes, all wrapped up in a satisfyingly cheesy package.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as penne or rigatoni)
– 2 cups arugula
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, arugula, sun-dried tomatoes, and Parmesan cheese.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with additional Parmesan cheese (optional).
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your meals with these 18 mouth-watering arugula recipes! From classic pairings like garlic sautéed arugula with lemon zest and creamy arugula risotto, to bold combinations such as spicy arugula and sausage pasta and pesto arugula pizza with roasted garlic. You’ll also find sweet and savory options like grilled peach and arugula flatbread, caramelized onion and arugula tart, and warm arugula and bacon potato salad. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing or hearty and indulgent, there’s an arugula recipe on this list that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
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