Rocket lettuce substitutes
Rocket lettuce substitutes — 6 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Arugula
Same amount as the rocket lettuce
Identical to rocket lettuce - same plant with different name.
The best substitutes for rocket lettuce are arugula, watercress, or other peppery leafy greens like mizuna and baby spinach.
- Verdict —
- Works
- Best for —
- salads
Updated 19 Aug 2026 · no sponsored swaps
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of rocket lettuce | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Arugulasalads | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 2 | Watercresssalads | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 3 | Mizuna lettucesalads | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 4 | Baby spinachsalads | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 5 | Mixed baby greenssalads | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 6 | Mustard greenssalads | Same amountWorks | Works |
Arugula
similar taste and texture
Identical to rocket lettuce - same plant with different name.
- Best for
- salads, pizza, pasta, garnish
Same plant, identical taste and texture.
Watercress
similar taste and texture
Peppery leafy green with small, tender leaves.
- Best for
- salads, garnish, soups, sandwiches
Peppery flavor and similar small leaf size.
Mizuna lettuce
similar taste and texture
Mild, peppery leafy green with serrated leaves.
- Best for
- salads, stir-fries, garnish, Asian dishes
Similar peppery flavor, commonly used in Asian cuisine.
Baby spinach
different taste, similar texture
Tender young spinach leaves with mild flavor.
- Best for
- salads, wraps, smoothies, garnish
More nutritious but less peppery than rocket.
Mixed baby greens
similar taste and texture
Pre-mixed combination of small tender leafy greens.
- Best for
- salads, wraps, garnish
Convenient option with variety of textures and flavors.
Mustard greens
similar taste and texture
Peppery leafy green with similar flavor.
- Best for
- salads, sautés, soups, braising
Similar peppery flavor, works well in salads and sautés.
Questions
4 questionsWhat is rocket lettuce?
Rocket lettuce is another name for arugula - a peppery leafy green with tender leaves that's commonly used in salads and Italian cuisine.
Is rocket lettuce the same as arugula?
Yes, rocket lettuce and arugula are the same plant - just different names for the same peppery leafy green.
Can I use rocket lettuce in place of regular lettuce?
Yes, rocket lettuce works well as a substitute for regular lettuce, though it has a more peppery flavor and is more tender.
Why is rocket lettuce so peppery?
Rocket lettuce contains natural compounds that give it a peppery flavor, which adds interest to salads and other dishes.
Tips for substituting rocket lettuce
6 tips- Rocket lettuce is good for Italian-inspired salads and pasta dishes
- The peppery flavor adds interest to dishes without being overwhelming
- Handle gently as the leaves are tender and bruise easily
- Works well in both raw and lightly cooked applications
- Store in the refrigerator with damp paper towels to maintain crispness
- Use within a few days for best quality and texture