Astro Organic Arugula and Bellezia Organic Wild Arugula

These two varieties of arugula—Astro and Bellezia—offer distinct flavours and textures, making them versatile ingredients for a variety of dishes. Together, they can add layers of flavour, from subtle spice to bold, peppery notes, enhancing both simple and gourmet meals.

Astro Organic Arugula:

  • Flavour: Astro arugula has a spicy and nutty flavour with less deeply lobed leaves, offering a milder taste compared to wild arugula.
  • Usage: This arugula is perfect for sprinkling over salads, adding a peppery kick to vegetable stir-fries, or using it as a pizza topping. It can also be blended into pesto or used to brighten up sandwiches and wraps with its mild spiciness.

Bellezia Organic Wild Arugula:

  • Flavour: Bellezia arugula has a more intense, spicy flavour with deeply lobed leaves, offering a bold and peppery taste that stands out in any dish.
  • Usage: Ideal for creating flavorful salads, adding a peppery punch to sandwiches, and garnishing dishes. It also shines in stir-fries, pasta dishes and as a spicy topping for pizzas.
  • Fact: Wild arugula, like Bellezia, often has a more robust flavour than cultivated varieties, making it a popular choice for gourmet dishes and high-end culinary applications where bold flavours are desired.

How to Use These Arugulas:

  • Salads: Combine Astro and Bellezia arugulas in salads to balance their flavours. The mild spice of Astro complements the bold, peppery taste of Bellezia, creating a dynamic, flavourful salad.
  • Pizza and Pasta: Use Astro as a topping for pizzas or mixed into pasta for a subtle peppery note. Add Bellezia for a more pronounced spice, creating layers of flavour in every bite.
  • Sandwiches and Wraps: Layer Astro for a gentle kick in sandwiches and wraps, while Bellezia adds a robust, spicy element, perfect for pairing with rich or savoury fillings.

3 Recipes Using Astro and Bellezia Arugulas

1. Mixed Arugula Salad with Lemon-Parmesan Dressing

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups Astro arugula
  • 2 cups Bellezia arugula
  • 1/4 cup shaved Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. In a large salad bowl, combine the Astro and Bellezia arugulas.
  2. Add the shaved Parmesan cheese and toasted pine nuts.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  4. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
  5. Serve immediately as a fresh and flavorful starter or side dish.

2. Spicy Arugula Pesto Pasta

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups Astro arugula
  • 1 cup Bellezia arugula
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/3 cup pine nuts or walnuts
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 1/2 cup olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 12 oz pasta of your choice

Instructions:

  1. In a food processor, combine the Astro and Bellezia arugulas, Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, and garlic. Pulse until finely chopped.
  2. With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the pesto reaches your desired consistency.
  3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Cook the pasta according to package instructions, then drain.
  5. Toss the hot pasta with the arugula pesto and serve immediately for a spicy, flavorful meal.

3. Arugula and Goat Cheese Pizza

Ingredients:

  • 1 pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1/2 cup tomato sauce
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
  • 1 cup Astro arugula
  • 1/2 cup Bellezia arugula
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C).
  2. Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface and transfer it to a pizza stone or baking sheet.
  3. Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the dough, then sprinkle with shredded mozzarella and crumbled goat cheese.
  4. Bake the pizza for 10-12 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
  5. In a small bowl, toss the Astro and Bellezia arugulas with olive oil.
  6. Remove the pizza from the oven and immediately top with the dressed arugula.
  7. Add red pepper flakes for an extra kick, if desired, and serve hot.

These recipes showcase the versatility and distinct flavours of Astro and Bellezia arugulas, whether you’re looking for a subtle spice or a bold, peppery kick. Enjoy the fresh, vibrant flavours these greens bring to your dishes!