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Arugula vs. Rucola — What's the Difference?

By Urooj Arif & Fiza Rafique — Updated on April 2, 2024
Arugula, a peppery, slightly bitter leafy green, is popular in American and Mediterranean cuisine, whereas Rucola, another name for arugula in Europe, shares the same taste profile and culinary uses.
Arugula vs. Rucola — What's the Difference?

Difference Between Arugula and Rucola

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Key Differences

Arugula is known for its distinctive peppery flavor that adds a unique taste to salads, sandwiches, and pestos. This leafy green is rich in vitamins A and C, calcium, and potassium, making it a nutritious addition to any meal. On the other hand, Rucola, simply another term for arugula used predominantly in European countries, offers the same nutritional benefits and peppery taste. The difference in name reflects regional language preferences rather than any botanical or nutritional distinction.
While arugula is often used fresh in salads or as a garnish, its versatility extends to cooked dishes where it can add depth of flavor to pastas, pizzas, and even soups. Rucola shares this versatility, being equally at home in a raw state or when lightly wilted to complement warm dishes. The use of arugula or rucola in cooking depends more on cultural terminology than on any specific culinary differences between the two.
In the United States, the term "arugula" is more commonly used, reflecting the American English preference for this leafy green. Conversely, "rucola" is the term of choice in many European languages, including Italian, which influences its widespread use in Europe. This linguistic distinction points to the global nature of food terminology and how regional preferences shape the words we use for common ingredients.
Arugula seeds are also used in gardening and farming, known for their quick germination and ease of growth in temperate climates. Similarly, rucola seeds, merely another name for the same seeds, are planted with the expectation of harvesting a crop with the same peppery leaves beloved by chefs and home cooks alike. The cultivation practices for arugula and rucola do not differ, underscoring the fact that they are the same plant.
Despite the different names, the market for arugula and rucola is global, with demand driven by their distinctive flavor and nutritional profile. Whether labeled as arugula in a New York City farmers' market or as rucola in a Rome produce stall, the leafy green enjoys popularity across a wide range of cuisines and culinary applications. This demonstrates the universal appeal of arugula/rucola, regardless of the nomenclature used.
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Comparison Chart

Terminology

Preferred in American English
Preferred in European languages

Cuisine

Common in American and Mediterranean dishes
Identical usage in European dishes

Flavor

Peppery, slightly bitter
Same as arugula

Nutritional Value

Rich in vitamins A and C, calcium, and potassium
Identical to arugula

Culinary Uses

Salads, sandwiches, pastas, pizzas
Same as arugula

Compare with Definitions

Arugula

Grown worldwide, but known by different names.
Arugula is also called rocket in some countries.

Rucola

A popular garnish for various dishes.
She garnished the soup with a handful of fresh rucola.

Arugula

A peppery, leafy green vegetable used in salads.
She tossed the salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and balsamic vinaigrette.

Rucola

Used similarly in salads and cooked dishes.
Rucola makes a great addition to this roasted vegetable dish.

Arugula

Can be eaten raw or cooked.
For dinner, we're having pasta topped with fresh arugula.

Rucola

Offers the same nutritional benefits as arugula.
Incorporating rucola into your diet can boost your intake of antioxidants.

Arugula

Rich in vitamins and minerals, offering health benefits.
Arugula is a great source of calcium and vitamin K.

Rucola

Cultivated for its distinctive, peppery leaves.
Their garden's rucola is thriving and ready for harvest.

Arugula

Often used as a pizza topping after baking.
They sprinkled arugula over the hot pizza right before serving.

Rucola

Another name for arugula, especially in Europe.
I'll add some rucola to the bruschetta for a peppery flavor.

Arugula

The rocket plant, used in cooking.

Rucola

Rocket, arugula (plant Eruca sativa)

Arugula

A Mediterranean plant (Eruca vesicaria subsp. sativa) of the mustard family, having flowers with purple-veined, yellowish-white petals and pungent, edible leaves. Also called rocket2, roquette.

Arugula

One of three yellowish-flowered Mediterranean herbs of the mustard family with flavoured leaves, often eaten in salads. Has a distinct, peppery flavor:

Arugula

Eruca sativa, sometimes Eruca vesicaria subsp. sativa

Arugula

Eruca vesicaria

Arugula

Diplotaxis tenuifolia

Arugula

An erect European annual (Eruca vesicaria sativa) of the mustard family, often grown as a salad crop to be harvested when young and tender.

Arugula

Erect European annual often grown as a salad crop to be harvested when young and tender

Common Curiosities

What dishes are arugula or rucola commonly used in?

They are commonly used in salads, pastas, pizzas, and as garnishes.

Are arugula and rucola the same?

Yes, arugula and rucola are different names for the same leafy green vegetable.

How do you grow arugula/rucola?

Arugula/rucola can be easily grown in temperate climates, requiring full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil.

What are the health benefits of eating arugula or rucola?

They are rich in vitamins A and C, calcium, potassium, and antioxidants.

Can arugula or rucola be cooked?

Yes, both can be enjoyed raw in salads or cooked in various dishes.

What is the best way to store arugula/rucola?

Store them in a plastic bag in the refrigerator to keep them fresh for several days.

Can arugula or rucola be frozen for later use?

It is best used fresh, but it can be frozen for use in cooked dishes.

Is arugula or rucola better for salads?

Both are excellent for salads, offering a peppery flavor that enhances other ingredients.

Why is it called arugula in some places and rucola in others?

The name varies by region, with "arugula" being used in American English and "rucola" in European languages.

Can I use rucola instead of arugula in recipes?

Yes, since they are the same plant, rucola can be used interchangeably with arugula in any recipe.

Is there a taste difference between arugula and rucola?

No, there is no taste difference; the terms simply reflect regional naming preferences.

Are there any culinary uses for arugula or rucola seeds?

The seeds are typically used for growing the plant rather than culinary purposes.

Are there nutritional differences between arugula and rucola?

No, they provide the same nutritional benefits.

How do I prepare arugula or rucola for cooking?

Rinse under cold water and pat dry before using in recipes.

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Author Spotlight

Written by
Urooj Arif
Urooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
Co-written by
Fiza Rafique
Fiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.

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