Get ready to add a punch of flavor to your meals with these 20 spicy arugula recipes! Arugula, also known as rocket, has a peppery taste that pairs perfectly with a variety of ingredients. From classic salads and pasta dishes to savory soups and flatbreads, we’ve got you covered with these bold and delicious recipes.
In this article, we’ll explore the versatility of arugula by highlighting 20 different recipes that showcase its spicy flavor. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy lunch or a show-stopping dinner, our collection of arugula recipes has something for everyone.
From sweet and tangy combinations to savory and umami flavors, these recipes will take your taste buds on a wild ride. So, let’s dive in and discover the many ways you can use arugula to elevate your cooking game!
Peppery Arugula and Pear Salad with Walnuts
This refreshing salad combines peppery arugula, sweet pear, and crunchy walnuts for a delightful combination of flavors and textures. Perfect as a light lunch or dinner accompaniment.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups arugula
– 1 ripe pear, diced
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine arugula and pear.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and apple cider vinegar.
3. Pour dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
4. Sprinkle chopped walnuts over the top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Garlicky Arugula Pesto Pasta
A vibrant and flavorful pasta dish that combines the boldness of garlic with the peppery bite of arugula, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine)
– 1/2 cup fresh arugula leaves
– 3 cloves garlic, peeled and minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine arugula, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Blend until smooth, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve desired consistency.
3. In a large skillet, combine cooked pasta and pesto sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately, garnished with additional arugula leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Arugula and Goat Cheese Flatbread
This simple yet flavorful flatbread combines the peppery zest of arugula, the creaminess of goat cheese, and the crunch of toasted pine nuts. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a elegant gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 cups fresh arugula
– 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese
– 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out the pizza dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Spread the arugula evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Crumble the goat cheese over the arugula.
5. Sprinkle toasted pine nuts over the top.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the flatbread and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Arugula and Avocado Toast
A flavorful twist on classic avocado toast, this recipe adds a kick of spice from red pepper flakes and the peppery bite of arugula. Perfect for a quick and satisfying snack or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices whole grain bread
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 4 cups arugula
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Toast the bread until lightly browned.
2. Spread the mashed avocado on top of the toast.
3. In a small bowl, toss together the arugula and red pepper flakes.
4. Place the arugula mixture on top of the avocado.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Lemon Parmesan Arugula Salad
Brighten up your meal with this refreshing salad that combines the peppery flavor of arugula, the tanginess of lemon, and the richness of parmesan.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups arugula
– 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine arugula and parmesan cheese.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Arugula and Prosciutto Pizza
Elevate your pizza game with this simple yet elegant combination of peppery arugula, salty prosciutto, and creamy mozzarella. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 4 slices prosciutto, chopped
– 1/2 cup arugula leaves
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Roll out the pizza dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch.
2. Place the dough on a baking sheet or pizza stone. Top with sliced mozzarella cheese.
3. Arrange prosciutto slices on top of the cheese, followed by arugula leaves.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the pizza and season with salt, pepper, and black pepper.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until crust is golden brown and toppings are heated through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Strawberry Arugula Salad
This refreshing salad combines the natural sweetness of strawberries with the tanginess of balsamic glaze, all on a bed of peppery arugula. Perfect for warm weather or as a light and flavorful side dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups arugula
– 1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic glaze (or reduced balsamic vinegar)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine arugula and sliced strawberries.
2. Drizzle olive oil over the salad and toss to coat.
3. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the salad and toss again to distribute evenly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Top with crumbled feta cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Arugula and White Bean Soup
This creamy soup combines the peppery flavor of arugula with the comforting warmth of cannellini beans, perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (15 ounces) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups arugula leaves
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
5. Add the cannellini beans and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 20-25 minutes or until beans are tender.
6. Stir in the arugula leaves and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
7. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth.
8. Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Roasted Beet and Arugula Salad with Feta
A sweet and tangy salad that combines the earthy flavor of roasted beets, peppery arugula, and salty feta cheese. Perfect for a light and refreshing lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 large beets
– 4 cups arugula
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Wrap the beets in foil and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. Let the beets cool, then peel and slice into wedges.
4. In a large bowl, combine arugula and roasted beets.
5. Crumble feta cheese over the top.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 1 hour (including roasting time)
Arugula and Shrimp Stir-Fry
A flavorful and nutritious stir-fry that combines the peppery taste of arugula with succulent shrimp, all wrapped up in a savory sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup arugula
– 1/2 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the arugula and stir-fry until slightly wilted, about 1 minute.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, and ginger. Pour into the wok or skillet with the arugula.
5. Add the cooked shrimp back to the pan and toss to combine with the sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spicy Arugula and Mango Salsa
This vibrant salsa combines the peppery flavor of arugula with the sweetness of mango, a hint of heat from jalapeño, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice. Perfect for topping tacos, grilled meats, or using as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups arugula
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine arugula, mango, red onion, and jalapeño.
2. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and toss to coat.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (prep time) + 30 minutes (chilling time)
Arugula and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this creative take on traditional stuffed shells. Fresh arugula adds a peppery flavor to the creamy ricotta filling, making for a delicious and refreshing twist.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh arugula
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Fresh mozzarella slices, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, arugula, and egg; season with salt and pepper.
4. Stuff each cooked shell with the ricotta mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Top stuffed shells with marinara sauce and cover with foil.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until shells are heated through.
7. Serve hot, topped with mozzarella slices.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Grilled Peach and Arugula Salad
Summer’s sweetest flavors come together in this refreshing salad featuring grilled peaches, peppery arugula, and a tangy vinaigrette.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe peaches, sliced into wedges
– 1/2 cup arugula leaves
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Brush peach slices with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until caramelized.
3. In a large bowl, combine arugula leaves, crumbled feta (if using), and chopped nuts.
4. Arrange grilled peaches on top of the salad.
5. Drizzle balsamic vinegar over the salad, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Arugula and Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta
This recipe combines the peppery flavor of arugula with the tangy sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes, creating a delicious and refreshing pasta dish perfect for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as spaghetti or linguine)
– 2 cups arugula
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
4. Add arugula to the skillet and stir until wilted (about 2-3 minutes).
5. Combine cooked pasta, reserved pasta water, and arugula mixture in a large bowl. Toss to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Warm Bacon and Arugula Salad
Elevate your salad game with this simple yet impressive Warm Bacon and Arugula Salad recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch. The combination of crispy bacon, peppery arugula, and creamy goat cheese will leave you craving more.
Ingredients:
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 4 cups arugula
– 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese (chèvre)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lay the bacon slices on it.
3. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the bacon reaches your desired level of crispiness.
4. In a large bowl, combine the arugula and crumbled goat cheese.
5. Remove the cooked bacon from the oven and chop it into pieces.
6. Add the warm bacon to the salad and toss to combine.
7. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Arugula and Blue Cheese Stuffed Chicken
Elevate your chicken game with this flavorful and refreshing recipe that combines the peppery taste of arugula, the creaminess of blue cheese, and the tenderness of stuffed chicken breasts.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup fresh arugula leaves
– 2 tablespoons crumbled blue cheese (such as Roquefort or Gorgonzola)
– 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 arugula leaves and crumbled blue cheese.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each breast with the arugula-blue cheese mixture, dividing it evenly among the four breasts.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed chicken breasts and season with salt and pepper.
6. Place the stuffed chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Citrusy Arugula and Quinoa Bowl
This refreshing bowl combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the peppery taste of arugula, topped with a burst of citrusy goodness. Perfect for a light and healthy meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 4 cups arugula
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa and arugula.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together orange juice and olive oil.
3. Pour the citrus dressing over the quinoa mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Top with chopped cilantro and diced red bell pepper if desired.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Arugula and Caramelized Onion Tart
Elevate your brunch game with this sweet and savory tart, featuring caramelized onions and peppery arugula on a flaky pastry crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet 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
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing pastry)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Place on the prepared baking sheet.
3. In a large skillet, cook onions over medium-low heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown.
4. Spread cooked onions evenly over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
5. Top with arugula leaves and sprinkle Parmesan cheese.
6. Fold edges of pastry up over the filling to form a crust, pressing gently to seal.
7. Brush pastry with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until pastry is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Arugula and Chickpea Wrap
A flavorful and healthy wrap that combines the spicy kick of harissa with the crunch of arugula, creamy hummus, and tender chickpeas.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup cooked chickpeas
– 4 cups arugula leaves
– 2 tbsp harissa
– 2 tbsp hummus
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1 whole wheat pita bread
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together chickpeas, arugula leaves, and harissa.
2. Spread the hummus on the pita bread.
3. Add the chickpea-arugula-harissa mixture on top of the hummus.
4. Sprinkle feta cheese (if using) and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Roll up the wrap tightly and slice in half.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Tips:
– Use store-bought or homemade harissa for an extra spicy kick.
– Substitute feta cheese with crumbled goat cheese or omit it altogether for a dairy-free option.
– Enjoy as a quick lunch or snack, perfect for on-the-go!
Arugula and Smoked Salmon Crostini
Elevate your appetizer game with this elegant and flavorful combination of peppery arugula, rich smoked salmon, and crispy baguette slices.
Ingredients:
– 1 baguette
– 1/4 cup arugula
– 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
– 2 ounces smoked salmon, thinly sliced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh dill leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Slice the baguette into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
3. Arrange the crostini slices on a baking sheet and toast for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly browned.
4. Spread a small amount of cream cheese on each toasted crostini slice.
5. Top with a piece of smoked salmon, a few arugula leaves, and a drizzle of lemon juice.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh dill leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (includes toasting time)
Summary
Get ready to spice up your meals with these 20 bold and flavorful arugula recipes! From salads like Peppery Arugula and Pear Salad with Walnuts and Lemon Parmesan Arugula Salad, to pasta dishes like Garlicky Arugula Pesto Pasta and Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta, there’s something for everyone. Add some crunch with Arugula and Goat Cheese Flatbread or Spicy Arugula and Avocado Toast. For a twist on classic recipes, try Arugula and Shrimp Stir-Fry, Arugula and Prosciutto Pizza, or Grilled Peach and Arugula Salad. With so many options, you’ll never get bored with these spicy arugula recipes!
