Rocket
Micro rocket – a small leaf with a big character
Rocket microgreens are for people who like food with character. The leaves are tender, but the flavour is far more pronounced than in most green microgreens: fresh, peppery and lightly pungent.
Benefits
Rocket microgreens are a source of vitamin C, vitamin K, folate and calcium (USDA FoodData Central data for rocket: 109 µg of vitamin K, 97 µg of folate and 160 mg of calcium per 100 g, that is 145 %, 48 % and 20 % of the nutrient reference value).
Vitamin C contributes to the normal function of the immune system and to the protection of cells from oxidative stress. Vitamin K contributes to normal blood clotting and to the maintenance of normal bones. Calcium is needed for the maintenance of normal bones and teeth.
Taste
Peppery, pungent and slightly bitter, yet fresh. That character is exactly what makes it interesting: a small amount is enough to change the whole feel of a dish.
Where does it feel most at home?
Rocket microgreens are wonderful with tomatoes, mozzarella, parmesan and other cheeses, because their bite balances the sweetness and the creaminess.
Scatter them on pizza after baking, over pasta with parmesan or a creamy sauce, in a sandwich with prosciutto and cheese, or next to eggs. They also pair beautifully with avocado, roasted vegetables, mushrooms and fish, where the peppery note gives a fresh finish.
Our little trick: when a dish tastes too soft, rocket is your answer.
The plants are ready about 8 to 10 days after sowing. The amount in two cups is roughly 42 g - 46 g.
Sources
- USDA FoodData Central – the US Department of Agriculture food composition database (record “Arugula, raw”).
- Ebert (2022), “Sprouts and microgreens – novel food sources for healthy diets”, Plants 11(4):571 (review of microgreens).
- Regulation (EU) No 432/2012 – list of permitted health claims made on foods (vitamin C, vitamin K, calcium).