Arugula substitutes
Arugula substitutes — 6 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Watercress
Same amount as the arugula
Peppery, leafy green with similar spicy flavor and texture.
The best substitutes for arugula are watercress, baby spinach, or dandelion greens depending on the recipe.
- Verdict —
- Works
- Best for —
- salads
Updated 19 Aug 2026 · no sponsored swaps
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of arugula | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Watercresssalads | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 2 | Baby spinachsalads | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 3 | Dandelion greenssalads | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 4 | Mizunasalads | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 5 | Radicchiosalads | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 6 | Kalesalads | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
Watercress
similar taste and texture
Peppery, leafy green with similar spicy flavor and texture.
- Best for
- salads, garnishes, soups, sandwiches
Very similar to arugula in flavor and texture. Close substitute for most applications.
Baby spinach
different taste, similar texture
Mild, leafy green with similar texture but different flavor.
- Best for
- salads, soups, sandwiches, cooking
Much milder flavor than arugula but similar texture. Good for sensitive palates.
Dandelion greens
different taste, similar texture
Bitter, leafy green with similar peppery flavor.
- Best for
- salads, soups, cooking, garnishes
More bitter than arugula but similar peppery flavor. Good for cooking applications.
Mizuna
similar taste and texture
Japanese leafy green with similar peppery flavor.
- Best for
- salads, soups, stir-fries, garnishes
Very similar to arugula in flavor and texture. Good for Asian dishes.
Radicchio
different taste, similar texture
Bitter, leafy green with similar peppery flavor.
- Best for
- salads, soups, cooking, garnishes
More bitter than arugula but similar peppery flavor. Good for cooking applications.
Kale
different taste, similar texture
Hearty, leafy green with similar texture but different flavor.
- Best for
- salads, soups, cooking, smoothies
Much different flavor than arugula but similar texture. Good for cooking applications.
Questions
4 questionsWhat's the difference between arugula and watercress?
Arugula and watercress are very similar - both are peppery, leafy greens. Watercress has a slightly more intense peppery flavor and is often found near water.
Can I use baby spinach instead of arugula?
Yes, baby spinach works as a substitute, though it has a much milder flavor than arugula. It's good for people who don't like spicy greens.
Is arugula the same as rocket?
Yes, arugula and rocket are the same thing. Arugula is the American name, while rocket is the British name for this peppery green.
Can I cook with arugula?
Yes, arugula can be cooked, but it wilts quickly. Add it at the end of cooking to preserve its texture and flavor.
Tips for substituting arugula
8 tips- Arugula is good for adding peppery flavor to salads
- Great for making pesto and other sauces
- Use as a garnish for pizzas and pasta dishes
- Arugula pairs well with citrus, nuts, and cheese
- Store in the refrigerator wrapped in damp paper towels
- Arugula wilts quickly when heated, so add at the end of cooking
- Good for making arugula and pear salads
- Great for adding flavor to sandwiches and wraps