Arugula is a delicate and flavorful leafy green that’s perfect for adding some zest to a salad or sandwich. But what about those pesky stems? They’re too tough to eat and usually discarded, but that’s a waste. In fact, there are a few clever ways to put these stems to good use in your kitchen.
One option is to add the stems to a smoothie. This might sound strange initially, but the stems are actually packed with nutrients – including fiber, Vitamin C, and Iron – that can give a tasty health boost to your drink. Simply chop up the stems into smaller pieces and add them to the blender along with your usual smoothie ingredients. You could even experiment with combining arugula stem smoothies with other fruits or vegetables for unique flavor combinations.
Another idea is to transform those stems into a zesty pesto. A traditional pesto recipe uses basil leaves, but why not mix things up and use arugula stems instead? The stems are softer than the leaves, so they’ll easily blend into a smooth and flavorful sauce with the addition of garlic, nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. This pesto can be used as a dip, spread, or tossed with pasta. And best of all, it’s a creative way to use up leftover stems instead of throwing them away.
Creative Uses for Arugula Stems
Arugula is a delicious leafy green that can elevate almost any dish, but many people neglect the stems. The reality is that arugula stems are full of nutrition and can be used in a variety of creative ways. Here are some ideas:
- Arugula Pesto – Instead of using just the leaves for pesto, incorporate the stems for a more robust flavor. Simply blend arugula stems with garlic, nuts, cheese, and olive oil to create a unique and delicious pesto.
- Juicing – Arugula stems can add a spicy kick to your favorite juice or smoothie. Run the stems through a juicer or blender and mix with other fruits and veggies for a nutrient-packed drink.
- Pickling – Pickling is a great way to preserve arugula stems and make them last longer. Simply boil a vinegar solution with spices and pour it over the stems in a jar. Let the jar sit for a few days, and then enjoy your tangy arugula stems.
But don’t just take our word for it, check out this nutritional breakdown of arugula stems:
| Nutrient | Amount per 100g of arugula stems |
|---|---|
| Calcium | 160mg |
| Vitamin C | 14mg |
| Vitamin K | 22.5mcg |
As you can see, arugula stems are packed with calcium, vitamin C, and vitamin K, making them a great addition to any diet. So next time you’re making a dish with arugula, don’t forget about the stems – they may just be the secret ingredient you’ve been missing.
Nutritional Value of Arugula Stems
Arugula’s stems are typically discarded or composted, but they are actually nutritious and worth consuming. The stems are not as flavorful as the leaves but they still contain vitamins and minerals that are essential for maintaining good health.
- The stems contain fiber which aids in digestion and helps regulate blood sugar levels.
- Arugula stems are an excellent source of vitamin C which is necessary for collagen production in the body and supports a healthy immune system.
- They are also rich in vitamin K which is important for bone health and helps with blood clotting.
Moreover, arugula’s stems are a good source of calcium, potassium, and iron.
| Nutrient | Amount per 100g |
|---|---|
| Fiber | 0.7g |
| Vitamin C | 15mg |
| Vitamin K | 108mcg |
| Calcium | 160mg |
| Potassium | 369mg |
| Iron | 0.5mg |
Therefore, it is advisable not to waste arugula’s stems. They can be used as a crunchy addition to salads, stir-fries, or soups, or chopped and added to sandwiches and wraps.
Culinary techniques for preparing arugula stems
If you have ever cooked with arugula, you might be familiar with the practice of discarding arugula stems. These crunchy stems can be quite fibrous and tough, making them difficult to eat raw. However, with the right culinary techniques, you can transform these stems into a delicious and nutritious ingredient in your dishes.
- Pickle them: Pickling arugula stems is a great way to add a tangy and slightly sweet crunch to your salads, sandwiches, and tacos. Start by trimming the stems, cutting them to the desired length, and blanching them in boiling water for 2-3 minutes. Then, dunk them in an ice bath to stop the cooking process and drain them. To make the pickle brine, mix equal parts rice vinegar and water, a pinch of sugar, and a pinch of salt. Bring the brine to a boil, then pour it over the blanched stems and let it cool. Refrigerate the pickled stems for at least 30 minutes before using.
- Sauté them: Sautéing arugula stems with garlic and olive oil is an easy way to add a crunchy and flavorful element to your pasta, rice, or grain bowls. Trim and chop the stems into small pieces, and sauté them in heated olive oil for 2-3 minutes until they start to soften. Add a clove of chopped garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Season the mixture with salt and pepper, and serve it as a side dish or mix it into your favorite recipe.
- Roast them: Roasting arugula stems in the oven can elevate their flavor and texture, making them a great addition to any charcuterie board or vegetable platter. Preheat the oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Trim and cut the stems into bite-sized pieces and toss them with olive oil, salt, and any other spices of your choice. Roast the stems for 12-15 minutes until crispy and browned. Serve them as a snack or a side dish.
When it comes to cooking with arugula stems, the possibilities are endless. So instead of throwing them away, try these culinary techniques to enjoy this nutritious and flavorful ingredient in your meals.
Composting Arugula Stems
Composting is a natural process of decomposing organic material that can be used as a soil conditioner to help enhance plant growth and improve soil structure. Arugula stems are biodegradable and can be composted to create natural fertilizer and reduce landfill waste.
- Chop the stems into small pieces to accelerate decomposition. Large pieces take longer to break down and may attract pests.
- Layer the chopped stems with other compostable materials. A good mix of green (nitrogen-rich) and brown (carbon-rich) materials is ideal. Examples of green materials include food scraps, grass clippings, and coffee grounds. Brown materials include dried leaves, straw, and newspaper.
- Water the pile regularly to maintain moisture levels and reduce odors. The compost should be damp but not soaked. Too much moisture can cause the pile to become anaerobic and produce a foul smell.
Composting arugula stems can take from two months to a year, depending on the conditions. The ideal temperature range for composting is between 110-160°F (43-71°C).
Here is a simple table that shows what materials are good to compost and what to avoid:
| Yes | No |
|---|---|
| Fruit and vegetable scraps | Dairy products |
| Coffee grounds and filters | Meat |
| Eggshells | Oils and fats |
| Grass clippings | Human and pet waste |
| Dried leaves | Coal or charcoal ash |
In general, it’s best to avoid composting diseased plants, weeds with seeds, or plants treated with pesticides or herbicides. These can contaminate the compost and potentially harm the plants that use it.
Arugula Stem Tea
Sipping on a warm cup of tea is a relaxing way to enjoy the health benefits of arugula stems. Brew a refreshing cup of arugula stem tea by steeping the stems in hot water for 10 to 15 minutes. Here’s how to prepare the tea:
- Cut off the ends of the arugula stems and gently wash them.
- Chop the stems into small pieces.
- Place the chopped stems into a tea bag or strainer.
- Boil water and pour it into a mug with the tea bag or strainer.
- Let the tea steep for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Remove the tea bag/strainer and enjoy your warm and rejuvenating arugula stem tea!
Arugula stem tea is packed with antioxidants and has a refreshing taste that can help soothe the nerves and improve digestion. It’s an easy and healthy way to consume arugula stems!
DIY Arugula Stem Skincare
If you’ve ever wondered what to do with the stems of your arugula, instead of throwing them away, you can repurpose them for skincare. The stems of arugula contain Vitamin A and C, which can help with dark spots and discoloration. Here are some easy do-it-yourself (DIY) skincare ideas to try with arugula stems:
- Arugula Stem Toner: After you’ve enjoyed your arugula salad, save the stems and chop them up into small pieces. Boil the chopped stems in water for 5-10 minutes and let it cool. Then, strain the liquid and use it as a toner for your skin. Dab a cotton ball with the toner and apply to your face for a refreshing and natural toner.
- Arugula Stem Face Mask: Grind the arugula stems into a paste and mix with plain yogurt or honey. Apply the mask to your face and leave on for 10-15 minutes before rinsing off. The mask can help with hydration and brightening your skin.
- Arugula Stem Eye Treatment: Cut the arugula stems into small pieces and place them in a cloth. Apply to your eyes for 10-15 minutes for a natural eye treatment that can help reduce puffiness and dark circles.
It’s important to note that these DIY skincare ideas are not a substitute for a proper skincare routine and should be used in moderation. Try out these ideas and see how adding arugula stems to your skincare can benefit your skin.
For more information on using natural ingredients in your skincare, check out the book “Skincare: The Ultimate No-Nonsense Guide” by Caroline Hirons.
| Ingredient | Benefits for Skin |
|---|---|
| Vitamin A | Reduces fine lines and wrinkles, promotes cell turnover |
| Vitamin C | Brightens, improves texture, protects against environmental damage |
| Plain Yogurt | Hydrates, exfoliates, reduces redness |
| Honey | Moisturizes, antibacterial, soothes |
Arugula stems contain Vitamin A and C, which are beneficial for achieving healthy skin. Plain yogurt and honey are also natural ingredients that have been used for centuries in skincare due to their hydrating and antibacterial properties. Combining these ingredients can create a powerful DIY skincare regimen.
Arugula Stem Crafts
Arugula stems are not commonly used in cooking, but that doesn’t mean they should go to waste. Instead, you can repurpose them and turn them into fun and creative crafts. Here are some arugula stem craft ideas:
- Flower Arrangements: Arugula stems can add an interesting textural element to flower arrangements. Cut the stems to the desired length and use them to support other flowers in a vase.
- Jewelry: Arugula stems can be twisted and shaped into unique and eco-friendly jewelry. Dye them with food coloring or paint to add some color.
- Wreaths: Use arugula stems to create a rustic and natural-looking wreath for your home. Simply bend the stems into a circle and secure with wire, then add other decorative elements like dried flowers or ribbons.
If you’re feeling especially creative, you can also try making a birdhouse or a wind chime with arugula stems. The possibilities are endless!
Here’s a table summarizing the arugula stem crafts discussed:
| Craft Idea | Description |
|---|---|
| Flower Arrangements | Cut stems to support other flowers in a vase |
| Jewelry | Twist and shape stems to create unique jewelry pieces |
| Wreaths | Create a rustic and natural-looking wreath by bending stems into a circle and adding decorative elements |
| Birdhouse | Use arugula stems to create a natural-looking birdhouse |
| Wind Chime | Hang arugula stems from a branch to create a DIY wind chime |
Next time you find yourself with leftover arugula stems, don’t throw them away. Get creative and try one of these arugula stem crafts!
FAQs About What to do with Arugula Stems
Q: Can I eat arugula stems?
A: Yes, arugula stems are edible. They have a slightly bitter taste and a crunchy texture that can add an interesting element to your dishes.
Q: How do I prepare arugula stems?
A: Simply rinse the stems thoroughly and pat them dry. Then, slice them thinly and add them to salads, sandwiches, or stir-fries.
Q: Can I use arugula stems in soup?
A: Yes, arugula stems can be a great addition to soups. Simply chop them finely and add them to the soup pot when you add the other vegetables.
Q: Can I juice arugula stems?
A: Yes, arugula stems can be juiced. They have a slightly bitter taste that can be balanced out with sweeter fruits and vegetables like apples and carrots.
Q: Are arugula stems good for you?
A: Yes, arugula stems are packed with nutrients like vitamins A and C, calcium, and iron.
Q: How long do arugula stems last in the fridge?
A: Arugula stems can last up to one week in the fridge if stored properly in a plastic bag or container.
Q: Can I freeze arugula stems?
A: Yes, arugula stems can be frozen for later use. Simply blanch them in boiling water for 30 seconds, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag.
Closing Thoughts
Thanks for taking the time to learn about what to do with arugula stems. Don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with different ways to use them in your dishes. Happy cooking!