The Difference Between Baby Arugula & Mature Arugula

Arugula is a category within the salad world that has grown in popularity over the years, specifically within the market for baby arugula. What some may not realize, is that arugula is commercially available in two forms: baby and mature. The two varieties have many similarities, but also distinct differences that influence how they are used in the culinary world.

Arugula Category 101

Arugula is widely used as a salad green. It’s in the same plant family as mustards and cabbages, although it’s very distinct for its elongated green leaves. Over the past decade, arugula has become more popular in the US, building a successful foundation as being a ready-to-use and prewashed ingredient. However, it has been well-liked in Europe for centuries. There are records that arugula was harvested as early at the 6th century BCE.

What is Baby Arugula?

The name implies it: baby arugula is much smaller than mature arugula, typically measuring about 2-3 inches in length. The reason for the difference in size is because baby arugula is harvested when very young, while mature arugula has more time to grow in the fields. People sometimes refer to baby arugula as ‘wild arugula’, but they two are different botanically. True wild arugula is more fragile and delicate than the seed that yields what we call baby arugula.

Baby arugula is the time-friendly and efficient option out of the two varieties. It’s often sold triple-washed and ready to use in either a foodservice or retail package.

What is Mature Arugula?

Mature arugula is typically 4-8 inches in length. Each leaf has more distinct and rounded lobes compared to baby arugula. Contrary to popular belief, the leaves of mature arugula are tender enough to eat raw and in salads, although their primary culinary use is for pestos and sauces.

It’s good practice to always wash mature arugula thoroughly before consumption. It’s sold commercially in bunches that tend to be sandy.

What’s the Difference in Taste?

There is not a huge difference between the flavor profile of baby and mature arugula. Mature leaves are more pungent and peppery while baby arugula has a more mild peppery flavor, with notes that are nutty and vegetal.

How to Store Arugula

Store both baby and mature arugula cold, around 32-36°F.

How to Use Arugula in Foodservice

Mature and baby arugula are used very differently. Baby arugula is the most versatile between the two. It can be used raw in salads, as a pizza topping, a sandwich ingredient, or blended into soups.

Mature leaves, on the other hand, are primarily used in cooked applications. They are most commonly blanched and blended into fresh pesto.