There’s a lot you can tell about a vegetable before you even taste it. For instance, smell is an important quality that you can use to determine the flavor and if a vegetable has gone bad.
In this article, we’ll be discussing if arugula has a smell, and if so, what it smells like. We’ll also be writing about arugula’s other characteristics to help you identify it in the future.
Let’s take a closer look.
Quick Answer: Does Arugula Have a Smell?
Yes, arugula has a smell. Some actually describe it as having a slightly nutty smell, although the taste of it is much more spicy and peppery. Others say it has a spicy smell much like its taste.
Read Also: What Does Arugula Taste Like?
Arugula Characteristics
Aside from smell, arugula has a few identifying characteristics. You can tell it apart from other veggies by looking at these traits:
- Appearance
- Taste
- Texture
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Appearance
Arugula has a pretty distinct appearance. It’s comparable to the spiky leaves at the base of dandelion plants.
The leaves in an arugula plant have several bumps on either side. At the very end of each leaf, there’s an especially large, rounded lobe that almost looks like it could be a leaf on its own.
Read Also: Is Arugula Related to Dandelion?
Taste
Perhaps the most defining trait of arugula is its flavor. It’s become an increasingly popular vegetable because of its zesty taste that reminds many fans of pepper.
For that reason, it frequently gets thrown into salad mixes. It can take an uninteresting salad and turn it into a lively dish you’re not likely to forget.
The spicy flavor also makes it popular in a number of other recipes, including pasta and as a final topping on freshly baked pizzas.
Also Read: Does Aragula Need to be Thinned?
Texture
The texture of arugula is another identifying trait. This isn’t a soft, tender leaf that gets lost in other recipe mixtures or sauces.
Arugula leaves are pleasantly crispy and durable. They tend to hold up well underneath salad dressings, which is what makes them even more desirable for salads.
Read Also:Does Arugula Get Soggy?
How To Tell When Arugula Has Gone Bad
All of arugula’s identifying characteristics, from taste to smell, change when it’s past its prime.
For one thing, its lively green color will decay. You’ll notice dark brown and black patches spreading in the leaves. Furthermore, the leaves will start to look wilted, shriveled, and limp.
You may also notice some moisture coming off of bad arugula. Its leaves will look moist and weepy.
Arugula’s noticeable smell changes, as well. The smell deepens, becoming earthy and slightly sour.
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Wrap Up
Arugula can be identified by a number of qualities, including its smell, taste, and appearance. However, its flavor is by far the most notable aspect of this well-known veggie.
Regardless of which quality you like the most, though, one thing is true: this is a tasty leafy green, and it’s fantastic for transforming any plate into a spicy experience.
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Hey, I’m Joey. I’ve been cooking since I was a little kid and love everything about it. You can find my writing about food, kitchen appliances (such as blenders) and much more. Thanks for stopping by!