Good for You
Rocket is a spicy, somewhat bitter leafy green that belongs to the same family as broccoli and cabbage. One cup contains just 17 kilojoules and 28 per cent of your recommended daily intake for vitamin K, which aids in the formation of blood clots and may strengthen bones. It also provides a good dose of vitamins A and C, as well as calcium and folate.
Get the Best
Select leaves that are bright green with no yellowing, wilting or bruising. “Young rocket, with smaller leaves, will be lighter in texture and flavor,” says Karen Page, while large greens have a more pungent taste. You can store unwashed leaves up to three or four days in the refrigerator in a plastic bag or paper towel.
Kitchen Simple
Paired with the right ingredients, rocket makes a delicious, simple salad. In Page and Andrew Dornenburg’s latest book, The Flavour Bible, they suggest balancing the greens’ bitterness with a mix of acidic, salty, and sweet flavours, such as fresh, sweet pears, salty prosciutto, and a simple lemon vinaigrette. Try other combinations such as rocket with cucumber, feta, and mint, or blue cheese, endive and grapes.
