Some people love them, while others loathe them. This is because of the gene TAS2R38 which gives us the ability to taste the bitter glucosinolate compounds in these vegetables – as well as rocket. Those people with two working copies of the gene are bitter “supertasters”.

Why is my arugula so bitter?

It’s genetic! Some people have more sensitive taste receptors than other people, and this includes sweet and salty tastes as well as bitterness. These people are sometimes called supertasters.

Is arugula an acquired taste?

Arugula is an acquired taste, but addictive once you acquire it. The baby arugula leaves are at best in the Fall and the Spring when weather is somewhat cooler and moderate, I would drive around different markets to find the most beautiful, perfect leaves. …