Food guide
Arugula
Arugula is a nutritious leafy green that can be introduced from 6 months, offering a delightful peppery flavor that broadens your baby's palate. It's a fantastic way to expose them to a wider range of tastes early on.
How to serve at this age
6-9 months: Cook arugula until very soft and finely chop it, then mix into purées, mashed vegetables, or soft grains like oatmeal. 9-12 months: Continue to cook and finely chop, incorporating it into casseroles, scrambled eggs, or pasta dishes. 12+ months: Serve cooked and finely chopped arugula mixed into a variety of meals, like sauces, stews, or even as part of a soft frittata.
Nutrition
Arugula is packed with Vitamin K, crucial for healthy bone development, and Vitamin C, which boosts the immune system. It also provides folate, important for growth, and some iron and calcium to support overall development.
A note from the editors
To temper arugula's peppery notes for sensitive palates, try pairing it with sweeter vegetables like cooked sweet potato or butternut squash, or stir it into a fruit purée.
Good to know
Arugula is not a common allergen but its raw, leafy texture poses a significant choking risk for babies. It must always be cooked until very tender and then finely chopped to ensure it's safe to consume.