🥬 Vegetables & Aromatics

Watercress vs Rocket (Arugula): Best Substitutes & Differences

Compare watercress and rocket (arugula) as substitutes. Learn about the differences in flavor, texture, and culinary applications, plus the best ways to use each in your recipes.

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Quick Answer

Rocket (arugula) is the best substitute for watercress. They have virtually identical peppery flavor and delicate texture, making them perfect substitutes for each other. Use 1:1 ratio in all recipes.

Best Substitutes

Rocket (Arugula)

1:1

Rocket (arugula) is the closest substitute for watercress. It has virtually identical peppery flavor and delicate texture, making it perfect for all watercress applications.

Best for:

fresh saladssoupsgarnishesall watercress applications

Rocket (arugula) has virtually identical peppery flavor to watercress and works perfectly in all recipes where watercress is used.

Baby Spinach

1:1

Baby spinach provides a milder flavor than watercress but similar texture and appearance. It's perfect for those who want the watercress look without the peppery bite.

Best for:

fresh saladssoupswhen you want milder flavorfamily-friendly recipes

Baby spinach has a milder flavor than watercress but similar texture and appearance. It's perfect for sensitive palates.

Mustard Greens

1:1

Mustard greens provide a similar peppery flavor to watercress with a slightly different texture. They work well in hearty dishes and Asian-inspired recipes.

Best for:

hearty saladssoupswhen you want peppery flavorAsian-inspired recipes

Mustard greens have a similar peppery flavor to watercress with a slightly different texture. They're perfect for robust dishes.

Radish Greens

1:1

Radish greens offer a similar peppery flavor to watercress with a slightly different texture. They're perfect for adding peppery notes to dishes.

Best for:

fresh saladsgarnisheswhen you want peppery flavorunique combinations

Radish greens have a similar peppery flavor to watercress with a slightly different texture. They add unique character to dishes.

Mizuna

1:1

Mizuna provides a milder peppery flavor than watercress with similar texture. It's perfect for delicate dishes and Japanese-inspired recipes.

Best for:

delicate saladssoupswhen you want mild peppery flavorJapanese-inspired recipes

Mizuna has a milder peppery flavor than watercress with similar texture. It's perfect for subtle applications.

Cilantro + Parsley

1:1

A combination of cilantro and parsley provides a fresh, bright flavor that works well in many dishes. It's perfect for those who want fresh herbs instead of peppery greens.

Best for:

fresh saladssoupswhen you want fresh herb flavorMediterranean dishes

Cilantro and parsley provide a fresh, bright flavor that's different from watercress but works well in many applications.

Cooking Tips

  • 💡Watercress and rocket (arugula) are virtually identical in flavor and texture
  • 💡Both greens work best when used fresh and added at the end of cooking
  • 💡The peppery flavor of both greens pairs well with citrus dressings and creamy cheeses
  • 💡Both greens are delicate and should be handled gently
  • 💡Store both greens in the refrigerator with a damp paper towel to maintain freshness
  • 💡The peppery flavor mellows slightly when cooked, so taste before adding more

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use rocket (arugula) instead of watercress?

Yes, rocket (arugula) is the best substitute for watercress. They have virtually identical peppery flavor and delicate texture, making them perfect substitutes for each other. Use 1:1 ratio in all recipes.

What's the difference between watercress and rocket (arugula)?

Watercress and rocket (arugula) are very similar. Both have peppery flavor and delicate texture. The main difference is that watercress grows in water, while rocket (arugula) grows in soil. They can be used interchangeably in most recipes.

Which is better for salads - watercress or rocket (arugula)?

Both work excellently in salads and are often used interchangeably. They have virtually identical peppery flavor and delicate texture. Choose based on availability and personal preference.

Can I use rocket (arugula) instead of watercress in soup?

Yes, rocket (arugula) works perfectly as a substitute for watercress in soup. It has the same peppery flavor and works well in both hot and cold soup applications.

Why is watercress more expensive than rocket (arugula)?

Watercress is more expensive than rocket (arugula) because it's more delicate, has a shorter shelf life, and is less commonly grown. It also requires specific growing conditions (water-based) which makes it more expensive to produce.

Which is more nutritious - watercress or rocket (arugula)?

Both are highly nutritious leafy greens. Watercress is often considered one of the most nutrient-dense vegetables and is high in vitamins A, C, and K. Rocket (arugula) is also very nutritious and high in vitamins A, C, and K, plus folate and calcium.

Summary

Compare watercress and rocket (arugula) as substitutes. Learn about the differences in flavor, texture, and culinary applications, plus the best ways to use each in your recipes.