This week I found mizuna at the Star Route Farms stand at the San Francisco Ferry Plaza farmers market. Mizuna has tender dark green leaves and a pleasant peppery flavor. Mizuna is also referred to as Japanese greens. Some think that it tastes like arugula, but I find the flavor to be much more akin to mustard greens in flavor. The leaves look more similar to wild arugula than mustard, though, with their somewhat feathery shape. Mizuna is a great source of beta carotene, vitamins, minerals, and fiber. As well, it is low in calories.
Mizuna can be used in salads or sautéed in a little olive oil.
I also add it to bacon, tomato and avocado sandwiches and to scrambled eggs for a hint of spice.
Star Route Farms is certified organic and has 40 acres in Bolinas and another 10 acres in Thermal, California. They grow a variety of vegetables including Asian vegetables, beets, broccoli, chards, herbs, lettuces, onions, salad greens, spinach, and more. For more information on the San Francisco Ferry Plaza Farmers Market, visit the Center for Urban Education about Sustainable Agriculture (CUESA).